Which common issue may affect the reliability of EVSE in public locations?

Physical damage from external impacts is indeed a common issue that can significantly affect the reliability of Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) in public locations. EVSE units are often installed in environments where they are exposed to a variety of potential hazards. This includes being near areas with high traffic, both from vehicles and foot traffic, as well as being vulnerable to vandalism or accidental collisions.

When EVSE units suffer physical damage, it can lead to operational failures such as broken charging connectors, damaged cables, or compromised electrical components. This not only disrupts the availability of charging stations but can also pose safety risks for users, as damaged equipment may lead to electrical hazards. Regular inspections and the use of protective barriers can help mitigate these risks, but the possibility of physical damage remains a significant concern for public charging infrastructure.

In contrast, incorrect charging voltages and software incompatibility are issues that may occur, but they are typically less common in well-maintained and properly calibrated systems. Battery failures, while important, are related to the vehicles rather than the EVSE itself and are less relevant when discussing the reliability of the charging infrastructure in public locations.