SmartCharge optimises EV infrastructure

The demand for electric vehicles (EVs) has increased dramatically in the past few years. Norway is a world leader in the adoption of EVs: in 2022, over 79 per cent of all new cars sold were fully electric.

While such high EV penetration is positive, drivers may struggle to find available chargers. This is due in good part to a lack of real-time information about charging stations’ availability, status and prices. This, in turn, may cause range and charge anxiety. Lack of real-time data also leads to suboptimal use of charging stations and resulting revenue loss for owners.

SmartCharge is a cloud-based, turnkey solution for EV charging infrastructure, bringing together charging station operators, charge point manufacturers and installers. The system enables total control and automation of infrastructure, as well as remote maintenance. It also allows EV charging station owners to sell their own generated power.

With the SmartCharge Dashboard, operators have access to historical data and can manage operations, energy optimisation and payment. They can also employ dynamic pricing based on person, power and/or time.

The SmartCharge app helps drivers to locate the right EV charging station for their needs. It calculates the optimal route, taking into consideration traffic data, etc. The app also facilitates payment.

SmartCharge delivers real-time data from EV charging stations to drivers and operators.

This helps operators to optimise the use of charging stations, thereby boosting revenues. It makes charging easier for drivers, and could potentially encourage sales of EVs, which would in turn reduce carbon emissions and local air pollution.

In addition, the aggregated e-mobility data gathered could provide new insights and opportunities for drivers, operators and communities.

There were 1.6 million EVs on the world’s roads at the end of 2021, and those numbers continue to climb. In the first quarter of 2022, global electric car sales rose by 75 per cent compared to the same period in 2021. Sales are not expected to slow significantly in the near future.

SmartCharge can be customised to satisfy the requirements of individual EV markets, so the market potential is vast. The company anticipates a rapid expansion beyond the six countries where SmartCharge is currently available.