SparkCharge, a charging solution provider, has a mobile app called 'Currently' that can be used to scheduled EV charging sessions. EV sales are going up the world over. In Q3 2022 alone, Americans bought over 200,000 new EVs, signaling an increase in sales by nearly 70 percent. The automobile industry is currently leaning towards electric power, with many automakers striving to outdo one another in this segment. With a rise in the number of EVs on the road comes a serious concern. How robust is the charging infrastructure?
In the United States, EV charging remains a major concern. In a survey conducted earlier this year, some Americans cited charging as a critical factor in their unwillingness to go electric. While there have been noticeable efforts by the federal government to make charging accessible and affordable for all, there's a significant deficit. As part of efforts to close this gap, Tesla pledged to open up its Supercharger network to other EVs soon. It has already taken a step in the right direction by releasing a new type of Wall Connector that can charge non-Tesla EVs at home.
SparkCharge is a mobile charging solution provider that aims to provide customers with on-demand accessibility and convenience. Instead of visiting the station, users can schedule a charging session at home or work using the Currently app. SparkCharge will send a technician with a mobile charger called Roadie. Upon downloading the app for iPhone or Android, EV owners will be required to create an account. For this, they'll need to supply their personal information alongside vehicle details like make, model, year, and license plate. SparkCharge currently services several EVs, including Tesla, Chevrolet Bolt, Hyundai Kona Electric, and the Kia EV6. Once the account is completed, the next step is selecting a subscription. Each plan lasts for 30 days and automatically renews monthly. There are three available plans – Comfort ($4.99), Commuter ($14.99), and Explorer ($29.99). It should be noted that regardless of the plan chosen, each charging session can't exceed 100 miles.
How Does The Currently App Work?
SparkCharge's mobile EV charging network currently operates in four American cities, namely, Los Angeles, San Jose, Dallas, and San Francisco. For those wondering about the reliability of mobile charging as opposed to charging at a station, SparkCharge's services have been acknowledged as safe and effective. Using the Currently app, EV owners in the aforementioned cities can request to have their cars charged. More cities are expected to be added to the list soon.
One interesting fact about SparkCharge's service delivery is that the driver doesn't need to be with their vehicle when charging commences. While they're encouraged to come out and see how the Roadie system works, EV owners can relax at home or work while SparkCharge's delivery technician initiates the session. Currently, customers can't order a session if stranded on the highway. SparkCharge advises them to contact their roadside assistance provider for immediate attention instead.
Source: Currently