Pedestal mounting is an installation method where an EV charger (or its connector holster and user interface) is fixed to a freestanding vertical post (pedestal) anchored to the ground. This approach is commonly used when wall mounting is not possible or when chargers must be placed in open parking areas, islands, or curbside bays.
Pedestal mounting can be used for AC EV chargers and DC chargers, depending on the charger design and site requirements.
Why Pedestal Mounting Matters in EV Charging
Pedestal mounting is widely used because it enables flexible charger placement and improves usability in parking lots. It helps:
– Install chargers in open areas without nearby walls or building structures
– Position connectors within easy reach of different vehicle charge port locations
– Improve visibility and wayfinding for EV bays
– Support scalable rollouts by adding pedestals along rows of bays
– Protect equipment by integrating impact protection (bollards) and cable management
How Pedestal Mounting Works
A typical pedestal-mounted installation includes:
– A pedestal or post (steel/aluminium) with mounting points for the charger or socket module
– Anchoring to a concrete foundation or plinth (or heavy-duty base plate)
– Underground or surface conduit routing for power and communications
– Earthing/bonding and protective devices installed in the upstream panel
– Optional accessories: cable hooks, holsters, signage plates, RFID readers, payment terminal modules
Common Pedestal Mounting Configurations
– Single-sided pedestal: one charger/connector facing one bay
– Double-sided pedestal: serves two adjacent bays (dual-port or back-to-back layout)
– Shared pedestal + remote cabinet: compact pedestal with power electronics in a nearby cabinet (site-dependent)
– Pedestal with integrated metering/access: includes MID meter, RFID reader, or payment terminal module (operator-dependent)
Key Design and Installation Considerations
– Foundation sizing and stability (wind loads, vibration, vehicle impact risk)
– Cable routing and conduit placement to minimize trench length and trip hazards
– Ingress protection and corrosion resistance (salt, snow, coastal environments)
– Clearances for accessibility and safe pedestrian movement
– Protection against damage: bollards, wheel stops, or kerbs
– Maintenance access and safe isolation procedures (lockout/tagout)
– Aesthetics and local planning constraints (especially in urban or heritage areas)
Benefits
– Flexible placement and good ergonomics for drivers
– Suitable for open parking lots and stand-alone bays
– Easier to standardize across multi-site deployments
– Can support two bays with a double-sided design
– Works well with clear EV bay marking and signage
Limitations and Practical Considerations
– Requires civil works (foundation/plinth) and outdoor-rated materials
– More exposed to vandalism and vehicle impact than wall-mounted units
– Can add cost compared to wall mounting due to groundwork and protection needs
– Poor placement can create cable crossing hazards if bay layout is not planned
Related Glossary Terms
Wall-Mounted Chargers
Concrete Foundations
Concrete Plinths
Impact Protection (Bollards)
EV Bay Designation
EV Bay Marking
Conduit Installation
Ingress Protection (IP Ratings)
Cable Management
Dual-Port Chargers