Charging takes longer than refuelling, which means drivers may spend 20 minutes or more at a station, sometimes late at night. For many drivers, especially women travelling alone, how safe a station feels decides whether they will use it.
What a safe station looks like
- Bright lighting over the chargers, parking bays and walkways.
- Visible location: close to an entrance, shop or staffed area, not in a hidden corner.
- CCTV covering the charging area, with clear signs.
- People nearby: staff, security or open businesses during charging hours.
- Clear help options: a visible support number and emergency contacts.
- Facilities: clean restrooms and a place to wait indoors.
Tips for drivers
- Plan night stops at stations at fuel stations, malls, hotels or highway restaurants rather than isolated sites.
- Check station details and photos in the app before you go.
- Share your live location with someone you trust during long trips.
- Stay in the car with doors locked while charging if you prefer, and follow progress on your phone.
- Keep enough charge to reach a second station if the first does not feel right.
- Save emergency numbers: 112 for emergencies and the EVee Buddy support line.
What operators should do
- Treat lighting and visibility as essential, not optional extras.
- Choose host locations that are open or staffed at night.
- Show night-time photos and facility details in the app.
- Respond quickly to support calls after hours.
- Ask drivers for feedback on how safe stations feel, and act on it.
At EVee Buddy, we consider lighting, visibility and nearby facilities when choosing and designing every site.