Is This Fake EV Charging Port for Gas Cars Funny or Not?
If you were looking for a way to park in EV-only spots despite owning a gas-powered car, truck or SUV, or simply to pull a prank on EV drivers looking to use a public charger, a new gadget on Amazon claims to be exactly that.
Called PrankPort, this 3D-printed, magnetic-surfaced fake EV charging port can be slapped on any conventional vehicle with an internal combustion engine (ICE). All you have to do then is to plug in the cable and—voila!
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We get the idea. Some EV drivers think it’s funny to stop at a gas pump to mock people filling up their fuel tanks, quickly and silently fleeing the scene afterwards. Why not give them a taste of their own medicine?
The company that designed and sells the PrankPort says it’s perfect for “getting hilarious reactions” and “creating viral-worthy moments” to be shared on social media. Incidentally, there are two models available—a J1772 connector (level 2) and a Tesla connector.
The problem is that this type “gag gift” is likely to encourage ICE-ing, which consists in blocking an EV parking spot (and access to chargers) with an ICE-powered vehicle as a show of either defiance or pure hatred for EVs.
Well, it’s not only a douche move, but also illegal in many jurisdictions. The fine is $75 in Toronto and $125 in most of Ontario. Over in Quebec, it can be up to $200.
This brings us to one key detail: despite being sold through Amazon ($22.99 USD), the PrankPort currently cannot be delivered to addresses outside of the U.S. Better luck next time.