Comment Log Display

 
Critical Concerns with Electrify America's Performance and Origins
Dear Members of the California Air Resources Board:
I am writing to express serious concerns regarding Electrify
America's impact on electric vehicle (EV) adoption in our state,
compounded by the company's origins and its perceived failure to
meet the expectations of consumers, voters, and this important
board.
It is noteworthy to remember that Electrify America emerged as part
of Volkswagen's response to a $2 billion fine for environmental
violations related to emissions cheating. The company's genesis
from a substantial penalty underscores its responsibility to
rectify environmental damage and contribute meaningfully and
authentically to clean transportation initiatives.
However, recent issues have brought to light the company's failure
to meet the needs and expectations of consumers. The reliability of
Electrify America's charging stations has become a major point of
contention, with reports of faulty equipment, inconsistent charging
speeds, and frequent maintenance-related downtime. 
JD power, Consumer reports and countless other legitimate research
proves this company is a fiasco.
Hold times on phones, long lines, failure to repair of promise
actual repair, and a total lack of ethical promise to many users
for "simplicity and easy charging" is a complete lie.  This not
only compromises the user experience but also raises questions
about the company's commitment to delivering on its promises.
Furthermore, the complexity of Electrify America's pricing model
has left consumers baffled and dissatisfied. Session fees and
per-minute charges have created a convoluted structure that may
discourage potential EV users, hindering the very purpose of the
initiative. The lack of transparency and user-friendliness in the
pricing model is a significant failure in meeting the needs of
consumers.
The strategic placement of charging stations, especially the
oversight of rural areas, is another glaring issue. The geographic
imbalance in the deployment of charging infrastructure has the
potential to exclude a significant portion of the population from
the benefits of electric mobility, undermining the inclusivity of
the initiative.
In light of these concerns, it is imperative to reevaluate
Electrify America's performance and its alignment with the board's
objectives. The company's roots in a substantial environmental fine
demand a higher standard of commitment to environmental
responsibility and consumer satisfaction. It means you as a board
need to step up and force change or penalty.
Phones that get answered in sane time frames
Equipment that is operating with data that's transparent
No more throttling back charging
Stations that are marked, safe and easy to access
Fulfillment of stations that you map as coming (vs years away)
Working equipment that can be relied on least coming close to
tesla. Just close!
Making the promise of car makers who offered 30 minutes of free
charging less like a total fraud ( please investigate) because on
cannot get free charging with broken equipment and overloaded lines
due to the issue.
I urge the California Air Resources Board to conduct a thorough
assessment of Electrify America's practices and performance. 
And to the manufacturers warrantee and sales promises of "30
minutes free charging" Something that one could argue is fraud.
Please ensure that the Electrify America fulfills its obligations
to consumers, voters, and the board  who is paramount for the
success of California's clean transportation objectives.
Thank you for your attention to these pressing matters. Your
constituents are beyond fed up.
Sincerely,
Lee Kovel