Adopting an electric car as your primary vehicle is accompanied by many changes in the daily life of a new owner. Although the batteries in these cars currently provide better range than in their early days, knowing where to do your next charge is a necessity.
Since the recharge time of the batteries of these cars is longer than a simple fill-up at the pump, you must know in advance where the batteries are charging stations on your journey.
To do this, installing a dedicated application on your smartphone is the solution. In this article you will find the essential applications to have with a electric vehicle.
The Tesla app
Tesla unequivocally has the largest network of charging stations in the world with more than 3,500 stations including 800 in Europe and 120 in France alone (1,500 superchargers).
As a Tesla owner, the Tesla app not only allows you to locate all stations but also request roadside assistance and schedule your maintenance.
The application also allows you to control and locate your Tesla remotely.
This app is only for Tesla car owners as Superchargers are also open to other brands.
Table of Advantages and Disadvantages of the Tesla Application
| Benefits | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| 1. Extensive Charging Network : Tesla has the largest and fastest network of superchargers, with more than 3,500 stations worldwide. | 1. Tesla Exclusive : The application is exclusively reserved for owners of Tesla vehicles, thus limiting its use to other brands. |
| 2. Remote Management : Ability to control and locate the car remotely, providing great convenience for users. | 2. Cost of Superchargers : Charging costs can be high, especially for long journeys, compared to other charging solutions. |
| 3. Scheduling Interviews : Makes it easier to schedule maintenance and manage appointments for the vehicle. | 3. Limited Compatibility : Some features are only available on newer Tesla models. |
| 4. Roadside Assistance : Direct access to roadside assistance in the event of a problem, increasing safety and peace of mind. | 4. Application Addiction : Heavy dependency on the app can cause issues in case of app crash or connection issue. |
| 5. Real-Time Tracking : Allows real-time monitoring of vehicle charging and status, providing optimal charging management. | 5. Complexity for New Users : Can be complex to use for new owners unfamiliar with Tesla technology. |
| 6. Notifications and Alerts : Sending notifications for important updates or alerts regarding vehicle status. | 6. Need Internet Connection : Requires a stable internet connection to access all features, which may be an inconvenience in rural areas. |
| 7. Recharge History : Monitoring of energy consumption, expenses linked to recharging and savings made. | 7. Data Confidentiality : Possible concerns regarding the privacy and security of data shared via the application. |
PlugShare
Plugshare is an application that allows you to find charging stations, connect with other users and leave comments about each charging station. The application has comprehensive mapping of the location of various stations in Europe, North America and the rest of the world.
The app is constantly updated with the help of drivers who add new station locations. In addition, it is completely free and is available on IOS, Android and even Web.
You also have Nextshare, a similar application that provides the same service. Stations not listed in other apps may be listed in this one.
Table of Advantages and Disadvantages of the PlugShare Application
| Benefits | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| 1. Global Network : PlugShare covers more than 220,000 charging stations worldwide, providing wide geographic coverage. | 1. Reliability of Information : Information may sometimes be inaccurate or out of date, depending on updates by users. |
| 2. Active Community : Users can leave comments, reviews and photos of terminals, enriching the database. | 2. User Interface : The interface may be perceived as less intuitive or complex by some users. |
| 3. Free : The app is completely free and available on iOS, Android and the web. | 3. Lack of Certain Features : Missing some advanced features like optimized route planning. |
| 4. Real-Time Updates : Users can add new terminals and update existing information in real time. | 4. Dependence on the Community : The quality of information relies on user engagement and accuracy. |
| 5. Complete Mapping : Offers a detailed map of charging stations with various search filters (plug type, availability, etc.). | 5. Advertising : The free version of the application may include advertisements, which may be annoying for some users. |
| 6. Integration of Comments : User comments allow you to know if a terminal is in good condition or requires special attention. | 6. No Reservation Function : Unlike other applications, PlugShare does not allow you to reserve terminals in advance. |
| 7. Diversity of Terminals : Includes a variety of terminals from different operators, increasing the options available to users. | 7. Lack of Pricing Data : Does not always provide complete information on charging prices. |
| 8. Multilingual Support : Available in multiple languages, making it easier to use for non-English speaking users. | 8. Notifications : Lack of notifications for real-time alerts on terminal availability. |
ChargeMap
Just like PlugShare, ChargeMap is an app that lists charging stations. It allows you to find nearby stations just as it can help you plot a route based on the stations available on your route.
Each user can comment and give feedback. You will thus know if a terminal is broken or if using it requires another step first (going to the hotel reception for example).
ChargeMap lists nearly 22,589 charging stations and 122,343 sockets for recharging your electric car in France alone.
Cocoparks
There is nothing more boring and annoying than going around in circles to find a parking space. And even if it means parking, it is better to take the opportunity to recharge your batteries when driving an electric car.
Cocoparks addresses this problem by helping you find available parking spaces with charging stations. If you often travel around town, this app is a must-to-have.
Chargeprice
Chargeprice allows you to recharge your vehicle at the best price. The application allows you to compare the prices offered at the different charging stations of different operators. You will find charging stations at the best prices anywhere in Europe. Chargeprice helps you save on your recharges.
Google Maps
It seems so obvious when you think about it but Google Maps is also an option to consider when using an EV. You can find on the application charging stations available nearby. If you live in North America or the United Kingdom, Google Maps provides live information at charging stations so you don’t have to wait in line.
Apart from charging stations, Google Maps provides a much more complete map than other applications. You will find the location there of hotels, garages, restaurants and shops. Additionally, if you use Android Auto, it is a great GPS that gives you real-time traffic status and gives you the best routes.
Here are the essential applications with an electric vehicle. Note that there are applications specific to each vehicle brand that allow you to use your vehicles remotely as well as benefit from other functionalities. You have Cupra Connect for Cupra vehicles, Mobilize smart charge for Renault electric vehicles, etc.
Plan your trips using these applications. If you have feedback or other suggestions, comment
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