Have you recently purchased an electric vehicle (EV) and you’re now wondering what tools you should keep with you when on the road? Avoid becoming stranded next to the road when popping down to the supermarket or taking a long journey. Simply keep useful EV tools in your e-car’s boot.
Items such as a portable EV charger are essential tools no e-car driver should be without, but what other products should you consider adding to your toolkit? Keep reading to find out and make sure you’re well-equipped when out and about in your electric vehicle.
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3 Useful Tools Every EV Driver Needs in the Boot
1. Type 2 Portable EV Charger
Source: chargingshop.eu
Australian EV drivers now have access to many public charging stations throughout the country, making it easier to travel without running out of power, compared to a few years ago. However, this isn’t always a foolproof solution, especially if you find yourself at a standstill with no charging station nearby!
Keeping a portable EV charger in the boot of your e-car gives you peace of mind you’ll stay moving in between charging stations, even if you need to charge at a hotel, or a friend’s home. Most EV dealers supply a portable charger with the purchase of a new electric vehicle but it’s useful to have two – one to keep at home and another to store in your boot.
A Type 2 portable EV charger allows you to charge on a 10 Amp outlet which is standard in all Australian households. The Type 2 charger is compatible with the following 2-socketed EV models:
- Audi
- BMW and BYD
- EQC
- Holden, Honda and Hyundai
- Jaguar
- Kia
- Mazda, Mercedes Benz, Mini, MG and Mitsubishi
- Nissan
- Polestar and Porsche
- Renault and Rivian
- TESLA and Toyota
- Volkswagen and Volvo
Also known as EV chargers, make sure your portable one is a Type 2 for 10 Amp plugs, to ensure the right fit.
2. Type 1 to Type 2 Adaptor
If you spend a lot of time travelling far distances throughout Australia (or any other country), keeping a Type 1 to Type 2 adaptor in your boot will save you a lot of hassles. Older kinds of charging stations still operate with a J1772 plug which isn’t compatible with Type 2-socketed EV models. This useful adaptor allows you to charge your Type 2 e-car at Type 1 connector-equipped public stations.
The Type 1 to Type 2 adaptor gives you access to ChargePoint and RACV Networks that still use Type 1 outlets. PHEVs with Type 2 ports can use this adaptor to charge on Type 1 outlets as well.
Storing this adaptor in your boot gives you peace of mind that you can continue your journey no matter which charging network you need to link to.
3. Type 2 to Type 2 Charging Cable
Source: drivingelectric.com
Another must-have every EV driver should keep in their e-car boot is a Type 2 to Type 2 charging cable. Also known as a Mennekes public charging cable, this tool acts as a connector between your Type 2 electric vehicle and Type 2 charging station.
It provides a high output of between 7kWh to 22kWh, allowing your vehicle to charge quickly. However, make sure it’s compatible with your EV’s capacity for best performance. The Type 2 to Type 2 EV charging cable is compatible with the following Australian public charging stations:
- ActewAGL Network
- Chargefox Network
- City of Adelaide Charging Network
- Jaguar Land Rover Dealer Network
- Mirvac Shopping Centre Network
- Queensland Electric Super Highway
- RAC Electric Highway
- Synergy Charging Network
- Waverley, Woolhara and Randwick Council Network
For some perspective, there are over 3,000 public charger points covering 7,692 million km² throughout Australia, with 470 supercharging stations included in this number. TESLA has over 40 destination chargers around the country.
How to Pick Quality EV Tools for Your Electric Vehicle
You can purchase these useful EV tools from online stores that stock products for the electric vehicle market. When looking for quality EV tools look out for the following features:
- Certification: Ensure the products are certified to meet Australian safety and regulatory standards.
- Quality materials: If made with durable and hard-wearing materials that are insulated and reinforced, you can rest assured you have safe and long-lasting items.
- 5-Star customer service: Having access to experts allows you to ask questions before purchasing your EV tools.
- Client reviews: Reviewing testimonials online gives you more insight into the true quality of the EV tools as well as the type of customer service received.
An informative website that gives you specifications, explanatory descriptions and a FAQ section allows you to make an informed purchase that’s best for your EV toolkit.
Source: skoda-storyboard.com
Safety Considerations for EV Tool Usage
Ensuring safety when using EV tools is paramount. When handling charging cables and adapters, always inspect them for signs of damage, such as frayed wires or exposed conductors, before use. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper cable management to prevent tripping hazards or damage. During charging, be cautious of the charging port’s condition and cleanliness, as foreign objects or debris can hinder the connection or pose safety risks.
Additionally, if you encounter any technical issues or malfunctions with the tools, discontinue their use immediately and seek professional assistance. In case of emergency situations, such as a cable malfunction or overheating, knowing how to safely disconnect the tools can prevent accidents and potential damage to your EV.
Maintenance and Storage Tips for EV Tools
Proper maintenance and storage of EV tools are crucial to ensure their longevity and reliability. After each use, clean and inspect charging cables and adapters to remove dirt, debris, or moisture that may accumulate during charging sessions. Store these tools in a cool, dry place to prevent exposure to extreme temperatures, which can degrade materials over time.
Regularly check the condition of cable connectors and plugs, ensuring they are free of corrosion or damage. Lubricate moving parts, such as plug mechanisms, to maintain their smooth operation. Be diligent in organizing and securing your tools within your vehicle’s storage space to prevent tangling or damage during transportation.
Source: misterworker.com
Final Thoughts
Your electric vehicle is an investment that needs to be functional no matter where you are on the road. Having the right EV tools in your vehicle’s boot ensures your journey runs smoothly and that you reach your destination safely and stress-free. Getting the products listed in this article are must-haves for every Australian EV driver who wants to avoid ever being stranded.
