Volvo Presents World-First In-App Smart Charging Solution For EVs

Volvo Cars has teamed up with energy technology company Kaluza to introduce a world-first feature – the ability for Volvo electric vehicle (EV) drivers to directly enroll in a smart charging plan within their EV’s mobile app.

Seamless Smart Charging Experience

In detail, this innovative integration simplifies the process for Volvo EV owners, allowing them to manage their charging needs seamlessly without the need for additional apps. 

Through the Volvo Cars app, drivers can now sign up for OVO’s Charge Anytime plan, which offers them the ability to charge their EVs at any time for just 7p/kWh. Kaluza’s advanced software automatically shifts the charging to more affordable and eco-friendly times, optimizing both cost and carbon footprint.

Moreover, as an added incentive, Volvo EV owners who enroll in the smart charging plan will receive 2,700 miles of free charging as a special offer.

Addressing Barriers to EV Adoption

The launch of this integrated smart charging solution comes at a crucial time, as consumer research conducted by OVO reveals that lower running costs are the primary motivator for 56% of UK drivers to switch to electric vehicles.

Additionally, 40% of respondents cited government incentives as a significant factor, while 75% indicated they would be more likely to purchase an EV if they had access to a charging tariff that automatically charged their vehicle at the lowest possible rates.

Nicole Melillo Shaw, Managing Director of Volvo Car UK, emphasized the benefits of this partnership, stating, “With this new partnership with OVO and Kaluza, we’re helping our customers maximize the benefits of electric car ownership, both in terms of their day-to-day running costs and by reducing their energy carbon footprint.”

Industry-First Integration

By leveraging Kaluza as a core technology partner, Volvo can provide a branded, personalized experience for usersdirectly within its app. This industry-first integration allows Volvo to maintain control over the user interface, ensuring the smart charging process aligns with its standards and customer expectations.

Neel Gulhar, Chief Product Officer at Kaluza, commented, “By 2030, 84% of auto sector revenue growth is expected to come from disruptive new offerings such as shared mobility, connectivity, and electrification. Integrations like this are exactly what automakers and energy retailers need to put customers at the center of the energy transition and ensure nobody gets left behind.”

Future-Forward: V2X and Grid Stability

Future plans include the development of bi-directional V2X services, which will allow Volvo EV owners to not onlycharge more cost-effectively but also export surplus energy back to their homes and support grid stability.

Read More: Volvo EX90’s Driver Understanding System Named One Of TIME’s Best Inventions Of 2024

With the addition of collaborations like this, the partnership between Volvo and Kaluzaare is crucial in addressing buyer concerns and accelerating the transition to electric mobility further.

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