Public electric car charging company Evie Networks has launched a new independent smartphone application aimed to make making electric vehicles (EVs) more convenient.
This new Evie phone app is available on both iOS and Android, and can be downloaded from their respective app stores now. To find it search ‘Evie Charging (New)’.
The new app means you no longer need to rely solely on scanning QR codes to start charging sessions.
If you’ve enabled location services on your phone when you’re at a site all you need to do in the app is tap the plug you’re using, and press start charging.
You can also still scan the QR code on the charger if you prefer the current method.
Like always, another way you can start a charging session is by using an Evie Pass. This is an RFID card that’s linked to your in-app account and allows you to charge by tapping the RFID card directly on the charger.
Compared to the outgoing app it loads by default into a map screen displaying charging locations and availability. You can also filter by charging plug type.
Owners can also track the progress of their charging session in real time, including being able to see the vehicle state of charge.
The new Evie phone app now allows for international credit cards and international mobile numbers on the public charging network.
It’s worth noting a number of these features are already present in competitor public EV charging company’s phone apps, including Chargefox.
As previously reported, Evie has recently upped the pricing of its public charging stations.
From July 10, 2023 the company now charges $0.50 per kWh for 50kW DC chargers (up $0.05) and $0.65 per kWh (up $0.05) for 350kW DC chargers.
“The adjustment to our pricing is a direct result of the rising cost of energy and the costs of providing electricity to these chargers,” said Evie in an email sent to customers.
“This adjustment will enable us to continue to invest in operating and growing our network.”
The new prices mean the best-selling Tesla Model Y RWD with its 60kWh battery pack will cost $30 to fully charge using a 50kW Evie charger, and $39 to charge at a 350kW Evie station.
The price hikes make Evie chargers more expensive than those of its rival, Chargefox.
Chargefox charges $0.45 per kWh at some 50kW stations, and $0.60 per kWh at its 350kW stations.
A recent jump in energy prices means it’s also now more expensive for electric car owners to charge their vehicles at home.
