Evie Networks will switch on a new Autocharge feature from August this year, allowing customers to charge without using apps, cards or QR codes.
Autocharge combines multiple steps of the EV charging process into one, the company says, initiating the charging session after the plug is connected. The technology will recognise a user’s car and details, with no need to open the app or scan a QR code to select the charger and initiate the session.
Evie Networks says it is introducing the feature after the majority of its users cited Autocharge as their ‘most preferred’ feature, reflecting the company’s commitment to staying ahead of the game.
“Thirty percent of Australian drivers have told us they do not feel confident about mastering EV charging related technology, which is why we have prioritised activating the Autocharge feature across our network,” said Evie Networks Head of Public Charging, Bernhard Conoplia.
“This is a game-changer for drivers, enabling simplicity in their charging experience across the Evie network.”
The new feature will be launched for a small group of frequent Evie users first, before a broader rollout from August. The charging provider says the feature will be available across 83 percent of its network.
Autocharge is one of various initiatives Evie Networks is implementing to continue to improve its charging experience, as it endeavours to roll out the largest national fast charger network in the country.
Evie Networks currently operates over 255 EV fast charging locations with 630 public charging bays across Australia, but the firm’s CEO, Chris Mills, recently told Fleet EV News that number will grow to around 1000 bays by the end of the year.
“Our plan is to get to 330 sites and just over 1000 bays by the end of the calendar year,” he said.
“Of that, probably half of those sites are acquired, so it’s about getting power to those sites – because power is a big deal for us.”
Most electric vehicles will support Autocharge, and it will become available to drivers after a one-time activation in the Evie App, which includes a vehicle compatibility check. The firm’s website mentions that CHadeMO plugs are incompatible, but says that the restriction equates to less than five percent of Australia’s EVs.
To be notified when Autocharge becomes available, customers can register in the Evie app before 31 July 2024. For more information about the new feature, visit www.evie.com.au/autocharge/
