The Impact of Charging Socket Location on User Experience in Electric Vehicles: An Evaluation Based on Survey Findings from the Case of Türkiye

  ABSTRACT: The rapid increase in the number of electric vehicles (EVs) has brought about new design and usage problems in terms of infrastructure and user experience. This research, using a quantitative and correlational design, aimed to determine the experiences, satisfaction levels, and suggestions of electric vehicle users in Türkiye and Europe regarding charging socket locations. Participants answered a questionnaire containing 10 questions prepared by the researchers. Data was collected via Google Forms and then analyzed using Microsoft Excel. The questionnaire, answered by 275 participants, provided a detailed analysis of vehicle brands, socket locations, problems encountered in these locations, and user preferences. According to the findings, the most common charging socket location is the right rear corner, and a significant portion of participants prefer double-sided charging ports. Furthermore, more than 75% of users stated that standardization of charging sockets among manufacturers is necessary. The data obtained indicate the importance of a usercentric approach in electric vehicle design and the necessity of standardization in terms of infrastructure compatibility.

KEYWORDS: Electric cars, charging issues, user issues, ergonomics, standardization, charging socket placement