Evie Networks says automatic payment plan will be a game changer for EV charging

Evie Networks, Australia’s largest national electric vehicle fast charging network, is set to streamline EV charging with the launch of its brand new Autocharge feature, offering customers a hassle-free and simple experience without the need for apps or RFID cards.

Autocharge eliminates multiple steps from the EV charging process, initiating the charging session directly after connecting the plug. The technology recognises users’ cars and details, without needing to open the app, select the charger and initiate the charging session. It’s part of the broader industry’s efforts  to catch up with the convenience of the Tesla charging network.

Most electric vehicles already support Autocharge, and it is available to drivers after a one-time activation in the Evie App, which includes a check on vehicle compatibility during the process.

This new feature will be trialled by select frequent Evie users to ensure the most seamless experience before a broader rollout to all Evie users from early August 2024. Autocharge will initially be supported across 83% of the Evie network, or 211 out of 255 Evie locations.

Evie Networks is introducing Autocharge after the majority of Evie drivers cited this as the most preferred new feature that charging networks could offer, reflecting the company’s commitment to setting a new standard in EV charging convenience and staying ahead of the game.

Bernhard Conoplia, Evie Networks Head of Public Charging, says “30% 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.”

“This is a game-changer for drivers, enabling simplicity in their charging experience across the Evie network,” says Conoplia.

Evie Networks currently operates over 255 EV fast charging locations with 630 public charging bays across Australia. All of these chargers are powered by 100% renewable energy, contributing to a reduction of 20 million kg of carbon dioxide emissions to-date.

Plug & Charge is a competing technology to Autocharge, which also enables EV charging without the need for apps or RFID cards to start charging sessions. However, Plug & Charge uses the ISO 15118 protocol which ensures communication between vehicles and charging stations is encrypted and secure.

The additional security that comes with Plug & Charge comes with downsides, as it is more complex and costly for charging providers to implement and also requires both vehicle and charger to support ISO 15118.

To be notified when Autocharge is available, Evie customers can register in the Evie app before July 31, 2024. The Driven has been invited to trial Autocharge and will update this article once the feature has been tested.