EV Charging for Car Shows: A Venue Operations Checklist

For a car show organizer, charging is an operating responsibility as well as an amenity. The plan needs to explain who can use the equipment, how vehicles move and who handles a failed session.

Establish the Available Capacity

Confirm which stations will be operating during the event and whether they remain open to the public. Do not advertise exclusive access without an agreement with the property and charging operator.

Count usable spaces and supported connections, not just installed pedestals. Ask about any shared power or equipment restrictions that could affect simultaneous sessions. For new installations or temporary electrical needs, use qualified site and electrical professionals.

Separate Charging From Event Power

Lighting, displays, catering and sound equipment need their own approved power plan. Do not treat a vehicle charger as a general event power supply or assume spare site capacity is available without assessment.

Plan pedestrian routes, cable management, emergency access and accessible spaces before positioning displays. Charging vehicles may need to leave while the event is still busy.

Assign Clear Responsibilities

• The organizer communicates event access and parking arrangements.
• The charging operator handles equipment and network support.
• Parking staff direct vehicles without blocking active sessions.
• Drivers monitor their sessions and move when finished.
• A named event contact handles questions about any agreed charging allocation.

Staff should know the station identifiers and support contact. They should not attempt electrical repairs or advise drivers to bypass a vehicle warning.

Tell Attendees Before They Arrive

Publish the location, supported connections, access conditions and where to find current prices. Explain whether charging is public, first come or subject to a confirmed event arrangement.

An RSVP is not a charger reservation. Avoid promising a fixed charge time or enough energy for every guest’s return journey. Share a fallback location and encourage drivers to arrive with a reserve.

Manage the Event Day

Keep display parking separate from active charging. Arrange a safe way for drivers to return, disconnect and move. If equipment becomes unavailable, update attendee information promptly and direct technical issues to the operator.

Review What Was Actually Used

Record operational problems and, where appropriate data is available, session use and waiting times. Ask guests whether charging helped their visit. Do not assume installation guarantees attendance, spending or a return on the equipment cost.

For events at Diamonds by Raymond Lee, confirm dates and property arrangements with the team. Read our guest experience guide for the information visitors need before setting out.