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Angel Gaitan doesn’t stop even on vacation. After sharing some interesting experiences he had with his family during the cruise, he is back with his videos. In this instance, his ‘target’ has once again been an electric car and the charging hose. The influencer mechanic criticized the fact that a user of this type of vehicle was without a car for several days. In fact, he confidently stated that had he been present, he would have recovered it “in five minutes.”
Angel Gaitan returned from vacation with a bang
Angel Gaitan reacted to a video uploaded by Radio Nervión. However, rather than being shocked, he noted that what was shown “is much more common than it seems“. He explained that some clients, particularly those with a Renault Zoe, “have experienced this, the hose has been left behind.”
In this context, he emphasized that the issue is not with the hose or the charger but with the vehicle itself. “The car has a mechanism that locks or unlocks to prevent anyone from removing it.” He elaborated that this could be due to two factors: either the lock that the car has or an issue with the car battery. “If the lock is broken, the wheel arch must be removed,” he commented, adding that the process is “very simple.”
Alternatively, he explained that it could be the second scenario. “The 12-volt battery, which all cars have, electric or traditional, might be damaged,” he said, clarifying that in this case, “it does not return and does not allow you to take it out.”
In this regard, he expressed his surprise that “no dealer or workshop in the area will come close” to disconnect it, “because it’s the simplest thing in the world. If I were nearby, I can guarantee that in five minutes you would have your car.” An action that can be performed manually, with a small actuator, or “you just break the hook.” “It is a plastic hook that opens and closes the hose,” he explained regarding this component.
Angel Gaitan, in his workshop (Photo: @angel_gaitan_oficial).
Therefore, he hopes that the “man was able to take the car.” “These are issues that happen with electric vehicles,” said Ángel Gaitán, recalling a similar incident experienced by a client. “He had to call an electrician to disconnect the charger from the wall in his house and move the car to the garage,” he revealed, adding that “this is the reality” and it is something that “is occurring.”
Understanding Electric Vehicle Charging Challenges: Insights from Angel Gaitan
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Angel Gaitan, the renowned influencer mechanic, is back from vacation and diving headfirst into intriguing discussions about electric vehicles. After sharing fascinating experiences from his family cruise, he has turned his attention to a significant issue affecting electric car users: problems with charging hoses. In a recent video commentary, Gaitan highlighted the frustrations of one owner whose electric vehicle (EV) was rendered unusable for days due to a malfunction with the charging apparatus.
The Charging Hose Dilemma
In Gaitan’s latest commentary, he addressed a specific incident shared by Radio Nervión. He observed that such situations are more common than many might think, particularly for owners of models like the Renault Zoe. Gaitan stressed that the problem does not stem from the charging hose or the charger itself, but from the vehicle’s internal mechanisms.
Identifying the Problem
Angel Gaitan elaborated on the technicalities of the challenges faced with electric vehicle charging:
- Vehicle Locking Mechanism: He pointed out that electric vehicles feature locking systems that can prevent users from disconnecting the charger. He stated, “The car has a past that it locks or unlocks so that no one can remove it.” This is often due to a malfunction within the vehicle’s internal systems.
- Defective Blockers: Gaitan mentioned that if the locking mechanism fails, simple manual interventions can resolve the issue. “If the blocker has broken, the wheel arch must be removed,” he described, adding that this is generally straightforward.
- 12 Volt Battery Issues: Another potential culprit is the 12-volt battery. Gaitan explained that if this battery is damaged, the system may fail to release the charging hose, leaving the car inoperable.
Practical Solutions for Electric Vehicle Owners
Given the frequent occurrence of such issues, Gaitan offered several practical tips for electric vehicle owners:
Quick Fixes
- Manual Disconnection: Gaitan confidently suggested that if he were nearby, he could manually disconnect the charger in approximately five minutes. The process involves a basic understanding of the vehicle’s mechanisms, which he described as “very simple.” This quick intervention could save drivers from extended downtimes.
- Using an Actuator: He mentioned the option of using a small actuator to facilitate the disconnection process, a technique that can significantly ease the frustration of being tethered to a charger.
- Breaking the Hook: In cases where the plastic hook that secures the charging hose is faulty, he noted that breaking this component could be a last-resort solution to restore mobility.
Real-Life Case Study
In his informative share, Gaitan recounted an experience involving another client who faced a similar predicament. This client had to call an electrician to disconnect the charger from their home outlet to take the car back to the garage. Gaitan’s straightforward assessment was, “These are things that happen with electric vehicles,” emphasizing that these situations are becoming quite prevalent.
Benefits of Electric Vehicles Despite Challenges
Although challenges such as charging hose issues can be frustrating for electric vehicle owners, the benefits of switching to electric power are numerous. Here are some compelling advantages:
- Environmental Impact: Electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, significantly contributing to cleaner air and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
- Cost Savings: Operating an electric vehicle is generally cheaper than gasoline vehicles due to lower fuel and maintenance costs.
- Technological Advancements: Electric vehicles often come equipped with the latest technology, including advanced safety features and connectivity options.
Tips for a Smooth Electric Vehicle Experience
To enhance the experience of owning an electric vehicle, consider the following tips:
- Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular check-ups for the battery and charging mechanisms to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
- Familiarize with Charging Stations: Understanding the layout and availability of local charging stations can help mitigate downtime.
- Know Your Vehicle: Familiarize yourself with your electric vehicle’s specific locking and charging mechanics, as each model may have different requirements and issues.
Common Misunderstandings about Electric Vehicle Charging
Many misconceptions abound regarding electric vehicle charging, contributing to confusion among new users. Here are some clarifications:
| Misunderstanding | Fact |
|---|---|
| Charging is always slow. | Charging speeds vary widely depending on the vehicle and the charging station; some can achieve a full charge in under an hour. |
| Electric vehicles are expensive to maintain. | Maintenance costs for electric vehicles are typically lower due to fewer moving parts and less frequent servicing. |
| Range anxiety is a significant issue for all users. | With advancements in technology, many modern electric vehicles offer ranges that match or exceed those of traditional vehicles. |
Whether you’re a seasoned electric vehicle owner or new to this technology, understanding the intricacies of charging and maintenance is essential to enjoying a seamless driving experience. As demonstrated by Angel Gaitan’s insights, it’s crucial to stay informed and proactive in addressing any issues that may arise.
