Over the past several years, electric vehicles have become more ubiquitous on the highway. It feels like every other driver owns an EV, sparking a debate about whether they are better than gas-powered cars. For many EV owners, the biggest concern is charging. Some folks say they take several hours to charge their cars, while others have no way to charge them at all. Installing a power station at home can be expensive, or at the very least really inconvenient.
However, EV owners aren’t the only ones struggling with their vehicles–other drivers and bystanders have publicly voiced their annoyance. In a viral video, TikToker @presidente_parra shared how she almost tripped on a Kia’s EV charging cord while at a restaurant.
Are electric vehicles ‘getting out of hand?’
“This [expletive] is getting out of hand,” the creator begins in her clip. She films a charging cord plugged into the exterior of an establishment. “Like y’all just pull up and charge your [expletive] at the local restaurant.”
She then pans to the Kia electric vehicle parked in front of the restaurant.
“I done tripped over the cord and everything,” the text overlay reads. In the caption, @presidente_parra adds, “Somebody charging KiKi when she should’ve been on the charger last night AT YOUR HOUSE.”
Viewers shared her aggravation in the comments section. Several wondered whether it was even legal, with many accusing the driver of stealing the restaurant’s electricity. Others shared what they’d do if they were in the TikToker’s shoes.
“If i trip on it I’m unplugging it,” one top comment read.
Another echoed, “I would trip and sue somebody,” while one user said they’d report it to the restaurant. Still, the majority of viewers wanted to know how the Kia owner got away with it.
Can you charge your EV anywhere for free?
There are several places an EV owner can charge their car for free. According to the Kelley Blue Book, this includes places like shopping malls, restaurants, hotels, and more. Some popular restaurant chains, like Chipotle and Waffle House, have even partnered with EV companies to provide charging stations for drivers. It is unclear which restaurant was featured in @presidente_parra’s video, but it did not appear to be an official charging station. Several speculated that perhaps the driver had permission from the restaurant, or maybe it was an employee.
To find free charging stations, KBB suggests you download the PlugShare app, which reveals the listings of charging stations, even free ones. As for how much it costs to charge your car, KBB states it is cheaper in theory. Still, it depends on location, charging method, and electricity rates in your area.
The Mary Sue reached out to the TikToker and to Kia via email.
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