ABSTRACT
Predictive models for electric vehicle charging station (EVCS) occupancy hold great promises for addressing issues such as queuing, range anxiety, and ineffective charging practices. Yet the success of these models relies not only on technical accuracy, but also on how well the forecasts align with user expectations and facilitate trust. This paper explores two core
questions: (1) What display expectations do EV owners prefer to see for EVCS occupancy prediction? and (2) What are the key factors that influence EV owners’ trust in predictive models as a source to manage their charging times? By integrating findings from quantitative surveys (n=191) and qualitative interviews (n=11), this study reveals a general preference for
clear, user-friendly prediction displays (particularly bar charts or line graphs) and underscores the importance of contextual clarity (e.g. charging speed, real-time updates) to bolster trust. While novice owners value additional guidance, even experienced users benefit from predictive outputs tailored to specific needs. Our findings suggest that combining simplicity with transparency is pivotal in shaping EV owners’ acceptance and reliance on predictive tools.
Keywords: Electric Vehicle (EVs), Charging Station Occupancy, Occupancy Forecasting, User Behaviour, Predictive Models, Display Formats.
