Current EVents

EV Industry Updates

Rivian’s new software helps drivers avoid broken EV chargers

Rivian is improving the charging experience for its customers with a new software update that leverages data from its vehicle fleet to develop a charger rating system. The system assigns ratings ranging from "A" to "F," showing charger reliability based on metrics, including successful charge completion and payment process efficiency.

While current data comes from Rivian's fleet, future updates aim to incorporate customer feedback to improve the reliability and accuracy of its algorithmic scoring system. Earlier this week, I asked Gabriel Lopez, Charging Interoperability Engineer at Rivian, how Rivian's charger grading system compares to other EV charging reliability apps that rely on crowdsourced user feedback.

He told me, “Rivian's charging score for fast charging stations is based on actual plug-in data from the fleet of Rivian vehicles -- versus primarily anecdotal feedback from customers. This charging score, along with the charging speeds at a station, and other plug-in data, feeds into Rivian’s trip planner to route customers to the most reliable fast chargers, ensuring peace of mind on longer trips.”

Despite a complex payment interface, Rivian is making impressive progress in improving the charging experience. Rivian has committed to expanding its network of DC fast chargers and collaborating with Tesla's Supercharger network. These efforts are part of their strategy to improve the charging experience for their customers and encourage broader EV adoption.

Rivian's commitment to improving the charging experience for their customers is underscored by Wassym Bensaid, Rivian’s head of software, who emphasizes the goal of making EV charging and trip planning seamless, stating, "Our North Star is charging and trip planning in EVs should just work."

–Steve

Automotive Charging Solutions (ACS) and EV Connect are partnering to deliver world-class EV charging solutions to the hospitality industry. With ACS and EV Connect, you get a turnkey solution that provides industry-leading equipment, software, and EV charging network solutions, preferred pricing with flexible financing options, dedicated project and account management, and 24/7 technical support. Click to find out more. 

Power and Policy

Biden Administration Invests $54M to Expand Clean Transportation

The Biden Administration has launched the $54M Communities Taking Charge Accelerator funding opportunity to improve accessibility to EV charging, specifically in areas without home charging infrastructure. This initiative aims to enhance charging facilities for a wide range of e-mobility solutions, including cars, e-bikes, and electric wheelchairs, ensuring e-mobility is accessible to everyone. 

A key aspect of the program is grid optimization. Managed charging solutions are a critical component in maximizing efficiency and minimizing the impact on the electrical grid. The initiative prioritizes the integration of renewable energy sources to foster sustainable practices that improve community health and economic growth.

The program specifically addresses challenges in urban settings, such as land use, high density, and grid constraints, to broaden EV adoption and improve overall grid stability. It also focuses on electrifying various fleets, including shared rides, transit operations, and last-mile delivery services, which are critical to urban communities.

Those interested in participating can find more information on the Communities Taking Charge Accelerator page on DriveElectric.gov. Concept papers are due by May 20, 2024, and full applications must be submitted by July 16, 2024.

–Rob 

Emerging EV Tech

Voltpost launches lamppost EV chargers

Voltpost recently introduced an innovative solution to meet the evolving charging needs of urban residents. Their new Level 2 EV charger is designed to integrate seamlessly with lampposts. It can be set up in about an hour, transforming this physical infrastructure into efficient charging stations, and can charge up to four EVs per lamppost.

Voltpost’s solution caters to EV drivers without access to private charging, offering overnight charging for apartment and townhouse residents. Voltpost provides users with a mobile app that makes payment processing easy, provides real-time charger location updates, allows users to reserve charging spots, and offers remote monitoring of charging status. 

However, it's important to acknowledge potential challenges. Charging speeds are constrained by existing infrastructure, and multiple EVs sharing the same station may result in slower charging times. Additionally, the power requirements for charging EVs and lighting the lampposts increase energy demands, requiring careful resource management.

Despite these challenges, Voltpost's product represents a significant step forward in the evolution of charging infrastructure in the US. In October 2023, we wrote that this style of EV charger already exists in Europe. We’re excited to see these lamppost charges deployed in cities across the US.

–Steve and Rob

How to further connect with us

If you’d like to stay plugged into the latest EV news, you’re in the right place.

To be a part of the conversation and stay up to date with ChargeCorps, you can follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

If you want to get in touch with us to learn more about ChargeCorps, reach out here.

Until next time, stay charged!
- Steve and Rob