Core Insights - The article highlights the growing issue of "zombie charging stations" in China, where many charging facilities are either non-functional or underutilized, despite the increasing number of electric vehicles and charging stations [2][3][5] Group 1: Current Situation - As of 2025, China is projected to have nearly 40 million electric vehicles and over 20 million charging stations, achieving a car-to-station ratio of 2:1, yet many stations are not operational [2] - A survey in a northern provincial capital found that out of 20 public charging stations, 6 were completely unusable, and 4 had insufficient power, severely affecting daily travel for EV owners [2][3] - In first-tier cities, the charging station availability is around 85%, while in lower-tier cities, it often drops below 50%, with highway service areas showing even worse conditions [3] Group 2: Causes of "Zombie Stations" - The problem stems from multiple factors, including flawed subsidy mechanisms that incentivize quantity over quality, leading to poorly maintained stations [4] - The charging service industry has seen a brutal market shakeout, with 37 operators exiting the market, leaving behind neglected facilities [4] - Outdated technology standards contribute to the issue, as many early-installed charging stations are now obsolete and unable to meet current vehicle charging needs [3][4] Group 3: Impact on the Industry - The proliferation of "zombie stations" negatively affects user experience, with a reported satisfaction score of only 68 out of 100 for EV owners, a decline of 11 points from 2023 [5] - An estimated investment of over 60 billion yuan is tied up in non-functional charging stations, which not only fail to generate returns but also incur ongoing maintenance costs [5] Group 4: Solutions and Recommendations - A shift in policy focus from construction to operation is necessary, with incentives for operational efficiency rather than just installation [6] - Implementing a comprehensive lifecycle management system for charging facilities, including mandatory inspections and real-time monitoring, can improve operational reliability [6] - Promoting technological innovation and standardization in maintenance practices is crucial, as demonstrated by successful initiatives like AI-based monitoring systems [7] - Exploring diversified business models, such as integrating leisure services at charging stations, can enhance user experience and increase revenue [7]

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].