This guide will help you through the steps to charge your electric vehicle (EV) using a Hikotron AC dual socket charger for the first time. Follow each section carefully to ensure a safe and successful charging session.
1. Before You Begin
Check compatibility
- Ensure your EV is equipped with a Type 2 charging port (standard for most EVs in New Zealand).
- Confirm that the charger is available and not currently in use (the LED indicator will show its status – GREEN is available).
Prepare your charging cable
- Hikotron AC chargers are socket-only units. You will need your own Type 2 charging cable.
Download and set up the Hikotron App
- Install the Hikotron app on your smartphone from your app store.
- Create an account or log in if you already have one.
- Add a valid payment method if required for public charging.
2. Connecting Your Vehicle
- Locate the charging socket on your vehicle and remove the cover.
- Plug your cable into the charger socket – make sure it is firmly inserted.
- Connect the other end of the cable to your vehicle’s charging port.
3. Starting Your Charge
- Open the Hikotron app and sign in.
- Find the charger by scanning the QR code on the charger label or selecting the charger from the map.
- Verify the socket name (every socket has a unique name!) that you have plugged into.
- Press “Start Charge” in the app.
- Wait a few seconds for the charger to authenticate and begin supplying power.
- The LED indicator will change to show that charging is active (pulsing blue).
- Your vehicle’s dashboard should also confirm charging has started.
4. Monitoring Your Charging Session
- You can monitor real-time charging progress in the Hikotron app, including:
- Charging power
- Energy delivered
- Estimated cost (if applicable)
- You can safely leave your vehicle while it charges.
5. Stopping and Disconnecting
- Stop the session using the Hikotron app by selecting “Stop Charge” or unplug the cable from your vehicle.
- Ideally unplug the cable from your vehicle first, then from the charger.
- Coil and store your cable securely.
6. Understanding the LED Indicators
| LED Colour | Status | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Green (solid) | Available | Charger is ready to use |
| Blue (flashing) | Charging in progress | Power is being delivered to your EV |
| Blue (solid) | Idle | Charger is connected but no power is being delivered to your EV. Idle fees may apply. |
| Rainbow | Charger waiting | Charger waiting for session to be started |
| Red (solid) | Fault detected | Check connection or contact support |
7. Safety Tips
- Always use a cable in good condition with no visible damage.
- Do not use the charger if the LED shows a red fault indicator.
- Keep the charging area clear of obstacles.
- Never force the connector into the socket.
8. Support
If you experience any issues:
- Contact Hikotron support via the app, website or call on 0800 694 456.
- Provide the charger ID and location to help resolve the issue quickly.