Electric vehicle chargers
We are excited to share some fantastic updates regarding the electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions across our Midtown campus. As part of Wayne State University’s commitment to providing reliable and innovative services to our community, we have partnered with RED E Charge, a Detroit-based leader in EV charging technology. This collaboration ensures that your charging experience is smoother, faster and more dependable than before.
Following a change in providers last year, we successfully replaced all 50 EV chargers with RED E Charge units, thanks to funding support from DTE Energy. These upgraded chargers were made operational to provide complimentary service during the transition. However, as we aim for long-term sustainability, we will begin collecting payment for their use starting on Monday, February 10, 2025.
Providing EV charging is part of Wayne State's ongoing commitment to sustainability and is an important step in aligning our operations with the goals outlined in our 2023-2028 Sustainability Strategic Plan. By investing in reliable and efficient EV charging infrastructure, we are supporting the adoption of electric vehicles among our community members while also contributing to the reduction of air pollution in Midtown. These charging stations are a crucial component of our broader sustainability strategy, which aims to position us as a leader in urban sustainability.
A breakdown of the updated usage policy
- Charging rate: A charge of $0.35 per kilowatt, consistent with previous rates.
- No connection fee: We’ve eliminated the $1.00 connection fee for added convenience.
- Idle fee: A $10 idle fee will apply to vehicles that are not moved within 4 hours of completing a full charge. This ensures fair access to chargers for all EV users.
Getting started with RED E Charge chargers
To use RED E Charge charging stations, follow one of these simple steps:
- Scan and charge: Scan the QR code located on the charger’s screen with your smartphone to initiate payment and start your session.
- RED E Charge app: Download the RED E Charge app from Apple’s App Store or Google’s Play Store for added convenience and remote access to charging stations.
- Vehicle integration: If you’re using apps like FordPass or BMW ConnectedDrive, you can initiate charging sessions directly from those platforms as well.
Need help? RED E Charge offers 24/7 customer support
- Phone: 313-262-6722
- Email: support@redecharge.com
For more information about RED E Charge’s mission and technology, visit their website at redecharge.com.
WSU’s Sustainability team also created a WhatsApp for the WSU EV Community to connect to each other. You can join here: WSU EV Community WhatsApp. The existing EV community has really taken to using it as many individuals work with each other to make sure they can charge their vehicles as soon as possible.
The EV charging stations are located in the following Wayne State parking areas:
| Location | Vehicle Charger Location |
|---|---|
| 450 W. Palmer (six stations). Located on the first level in section 2E | |
| 5150 Lodge Service Drive (six stations) Located in the southwest corner of the structure in sections 1/2 and 3/1 | |
| 555 E. Canfield (six stations) Three are located on the first ramp (southbound) into the garage from the Canfield entrance and three are located on the level one ramp (northbound) | |
| 5501 Anthony Wayne Drive (six stations) Located on the first level in sections 1/4 and 1/5 | |
| 61 Putnam (six stations) Four are located on the second level in the east end of the structure Student/Staff side. Two are located on the first level in the Visitor section | |
| 3717 John R. (six stations) Three are located in section GN and three are located in section 2S | |
| 91 W. Forest (six stations) Located in the lower level of the structure at the bottom of the west ramp | |
| 1200 W. Warren (four stations) Located just west of the Warren Ave. entrance close to the parking booth | |
| 545 E. Canfield (four stations) Located on the northeast side of the lot near Structure 4 north entry/exit gate |
WSU electric vehicle etiquette
EV spots for EVs
It's absolutely never acceptable for an internal combustion car to park in a spot designated for a plug-in car. That's a firm rule, no matter how crowded a parking lot is, and no matter how infrequently the charging location is used.
No nasty notes
Electric car drivers should never leave nasty notes. If the charging spot you counted on using is ICEd (the term referring to a charging spot occupied by an internal combustion engine car) by all means, the plug-in driver should leave a note on the windshield explaining the predicament. The note can be firm, but should be expressed in polite language, in a good-will gesture that will hopefully convince the offender not to make the mistake again.
Charge only when necessary
Don't charge if you don't need a charge. Leave the spot free for another EV driver that might need the charge to safely complete his or her daily travels.
Charge up and move on
Only occupy a charging spot while your car is being charged. As soon as the charging session is completed (either when your battery is full or when you have adequate range to comfortably reach your destination) be prepared to unplug and move your car as soon as possible, making way for a fellow plug-in driver. Many charging networks and car apps can be set to notify you by email or text when your charging session is completed.
It's okay to ask for a charge
If a charging spot you needed is being used, and you are able to park next to a car that is currently charging, it's perfectly fine to leave a note asking the owner to plug your car in after his or her session is complete. If you have receive such a note, honor the request. If the charging session requires a fee, you are obviously not obligated to activate the charging session (and incur a fee) although that kind gesture will likely be returned someday. As with any note left on a windshield, it's advisable to include your name and cell phone number so you can be contacted.
Don't unplug plug-in hybrids...
An owner of a pure electric car owner, like a Nissan LEAF, does NOT have the right to unplug a plug-in hybrid, such as a Chevy Volt, just because that car has a back-up gas engine.
...Except when plug-in hybrid Is done charging
The exception to Rule #6 (and applicable in fact to any other plug-in car) says that it's okay for one plug-in car owner to unplug another car, if the first car has clearly finished charging. In this event, the driver who makes the switch should leave a note explaining why it was unplugged. The note should be full of gratitude and include your cell number.
Safety first
Practice safe charging. The means properly managing the cord. Neatly wind the cord on its holder, and tuck it in so people will not trip on any excess length, or drive over it.
For more locations of alternative fuel and electric vehicle charging stations in the Metro-Detroit area, visit afdc.energy.gov/locator/stations/.