Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the issue of "zombie charging piles" in China's electric vehicle infrastructure, emphasizing the disparity between the number of charging stations and their actual usability, which leads to significant resource waste and user dissatisfaction [4][8][21]. Current Situation Overview - By 2025, China's electric vehicle ownership is projected to reach nearly 40 million, with over 20 million charging piles, achieving a "car-to-pile ratio" of 2:1, close to the policy-planned level [7]. - Despite the apparent abundance of charging stations, many are non-functional or occupied by gasoline vehicles, leading to a significant number of idle parking spaces [8][10]. - A survey in a northern provincial capital found that 30% of public charging stations were either completely unusable or had insufficient power, severely impacting daily travel for EV owners [10][11]. - The availability of charging piles varies significantly by region, with first-tier cities maintaining an 85% usability rate, while third and fourth-tier cities often fall below 50% [12]. Problem Analysis - The "zombie pile" phenomenon is attributed to multiple factors, including flawed policy design, inadequate market mechanisms, and outdated technical standards [15][16]. - The subsidy mechanism has incentivized short-term behavior, leading to the installation of charging piles in low-traffic areas without proper operational support [17]. - The market is expected to undergo a harsh shakeout in 2024, with 37 charging operators projected to exit, leaving behind neglected infrastructure [19]. - Technical standards are lagging, focusing more on construction than on operational requirements, complicating maintenance and interoperability [20]. Impact on the Industry - The ongoing issues with charging infrastructure are negatively affecting user experience, with a reported satisfaction score of only 68 out of 100 for EV users, a decline of 11 points from 2023 [21]. - The inability to charge conveniently is becoming a significant factor in consumer decisions against purchasing EVs, with an estimated investment of over 60 billion yuan tied up in non-functional charging piles [22]. - The negative perception of charging difficulties is growing, with a 75% increase in negative discussions on social media regarding charging issues in the first half of 2025 [22]. Solutions Proposed - To address the "zombie pile" issue, it is essential to restructure policy incentives, shifting focus from construction to operational efficiency, as demonstrated by Shenzhen's successful implementation of a "per kilowatt-hour subsidy" policy [25]. - Establishing a comprehensive lifecycle management system for charging facilities is recommended, including mandatory inspections and real-time monitoring to ensure operational reliability [26]. - Promoting technological innovation and standardization is crucial, with examples like Huawei's AI maintenance platform showcasing potential improvements in operational efficiency [26]. - Exploring diversified business models, such as integrating leisure facilities at charging stations, can enhance user experience and increase revenue [27]. Conclusion - The "zombie pile" phenomenon reflects the challenges faced by China's electric vehicle industry as it transitions from rapid growth to high-quality development [28]. - A collaborative approach involving government, enterprises, and users is necessary to create a sustainable charging service system that supports the healthy development of the EV industry and achieves strategic energy transition goals [28].