Electric vehicles are on the rise, but for many drivers, “range anxiety” remains a hurdle. In the world of starting an EV charging business, EV charging station finder apps are crucial for attracting customers. Just like gas stations rely on users knowing their locations, these apps allow EV drivers to find your charging stations easily.
This translates into increased visibility and convenience for drivers, ultimately driving more business to your stations. A powerful EV charging app is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity. But before deciding to build an app it is necessary to find out what features should be included in such apps.
Here, we’ve put together a list of important features to prioritize during the app development phase.
Facts and Figures About the EV Market
- In 2024, the global EV market is forecasted to achieve a remarkable revenue of $623.3 billion.
- Projections suggest that the unit sales of Electric Vehicles will hit 17.07 million vehicles by 2028.
- Analyzing the market in 2024, the volume-weighted average price of the transportation industry is predicted to stand at $52.9 thousand.
- Internationally, it’s clear that China will lead in revenue generation, with an estimated $319 billion in 2024, underscoring the significant presence of the electric vehicles market in China.
- The global trend of electric vehicle adoption is rapidly gaining momentum, with countries like Norway emerging as leaders in terms of market share.
Source: Statista
Why Invest in EV Charging App Development?
The world is witnessing a rapid shift towards electric vehicles. As EV sales skyrocket, there’s a pressing need for a robust charging infrastructure to keep these vehicles powered. This presents a significant opportunity for startups and businesses to capitalize on. Investing in EV charging app development can be a strategic move that positions you at the forefront of this exciting transition.
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Top 10 Key Features Every EV Charging App Must-Have
In this digital age, EV charging station finder apps are becoming an essential tool. Here are the 10 essential EV charging app features for efficient operations.
1. Sign Up/Registration
During this one-time setup, users enter details like their vehicle registration number, model, and year. This information is stored securely within the app’s database and helps ensure they can effortlessly find compatible charging stations. The app also allows users to update this information anytime, so they are always in control. For added convenience, offer login options using existing accounts like Gmail, Yahoo, or Facebook. Once the profile is established, booking a charging slot becomes a simple swipe away on a smartphone.
2. Find Nearby Charging Stations
Customers never get caught off guard with a low battery again with this feature. The app utilizes their phone’s location services to display nearby charging stations on a user-friendly map. Users are empowered to filter these stations based on various criteria to find the most convenient option for their needs. They can look for features like filtering by charger type (Level 2 or DC Fast Charger) to ensure compatibility, real-time availability to avoid wasted trips, and distance to find the closest station.
3. Charger Details
Once a suitable station is identified, the app provides all the information needed to make an informed decision. This typically includes the number of available chargers, the specific connector types (e.g., CCS, CHAdeMO) to ensure the car can plug in, charging speeds in kilowatts (kW) for faster decision-making on charging times, and the station’s pricing structure. Additionally, photos of the location, user ratings from other EV drivers, and even details about amenities like restrooms or restaurants can help choose the perfect station for a charging stop.
4. Book Charging Slot
Most of the advanced apps offer the ability to reserve a charging slot at a station, a particularly beneficial feature for high-demand locations or DC fast chargers. This innovative feature ensures customers don’t waste time waiting upon arrival, especially during peak hours. By booking a slot, users can be confident a charger will be available when needed, allowing for better trip planning and peace of mind.
5. Multi-Connector Charging
Some apps are incorporating multi-connector charging support for electric vehicles. This means users can use the app to initiate charging sessions at stations with various connector types, even if they differ from their car’s standard connector. For instance, if encountering a station with a CHAdeMO connector while the car uses CCS, the app might facilitate an adapter rental or connection through a third-party device, providing greater flexibility on the road and eliminating range anxiety.
6. Multiple Payment Options
To create a smooth and hassle-free charging experience, the EV charging station finder app should prioritize seamless payment integration. This means users can pay for their charging sessions directly within the app, eliminating the need to carry physical cards or juggle between different payment platforms. Ideally, the app should offer a variety of payment options to cater to user preferences, including credit/debit cards, mobile wallets, and potentially even cryptocurrencies. But it goes beyond just offering choices. Securely storing user payment information, providing detailed receipts, and maintaining a clear transaction history are all crucial features that not only add to the convenience factor but also build trust and encourage users to rely on the app for their charging needs.
7. GPS Navigation
A key feature of any EV charging app is route planning and navigation with charging assistance. This functionality helps users find the most efficient routes to their destinations, highlighting available charging stations along the way. By providing real-time data like distance to stations, charger availability, and estimated charging times, the app empowers drivers to manage their time and energy usage effectively. For an even smoother experience, some apps integrate live traffic updates and suggest alternate routes during congestion, significantly enhancing the journey for the user.
8. Monitor and Track Charging Sessions
Once plugged in, users can monitor their charging session remotely with the app. Users can also view the real-time increase in the battery percentage, keeping them informed about the progress. The app should also display the estimated charging time remaining, allowing users to plan their next steps accordingly. Additionally, some apps offer past charging history, providing valuable insights into charging habits and potentially helping users optimize their charging strategy.
9. Earn Rewards and Discounts
To cultivate a loyal user base and encourage frequent app usage, EV charging apps should offer rewards and incentive programs. These programs can take various forms, from discounts on charging fees to points redeemable for services. By rewarding users for their eco-conscious decisions, the app fosters a positive relationship with its user base while promoting sustainable practices. Additionally, personalized incentives based on individual charging habits can further enhance user engagement and satisfaction, creating a win-win situation for both the app and the environmentally conscious driver.
10. Push Notifications
For ultimate convenience, some apps allow users to receive push notifications when a charging slot becomes available, ensuring they can optimize their charging journey. This empowers users to plan their charging stops efficiently, avoiding the frustration of arriving at a station. Seeing the current status of a station (available, in use, or out of service) significantly reduces range anxiety and improves the overall EV ownership experience.
How Much Does It Cost to Build an EV Charging App?
To figure out how much it’ll cost to make an EV charging app in 2024, you need to consider various factors that affect the cost such as app design, features & functionalities, app complexity, and the development team location.
For a basic app with minimal features and a simple user interface, you can expect to pay between $20,000 to $40,000. And, a more complex app with advanced functionalities may range between $40,000 to $80,000 or even more.
Wrapping up
By incorporating these essential and future-oriented features, your EV charging app can become an invaluable tool for drivers and a cornerstone for your business success. Remember, it’s not just about offering a charging service; it’s about creating a seamless and sustainable experience for EV drivers. If you are looking for a leading EV charging app development company, that can offer unparalleled expertise and tailored solutions then Biglona, can be your partner in delivering excellence every step of the way. By embracing innovation and staying ahead of the curve, you can ensure your app remains a go-to resource in the ever-evolving EV landscape, paving the way for a greener future.