As the popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) continues to rise, finding public chargers on the go has become a crucial aspect of EV ownership. While over 80% of EV drivers typically charge at home, many still need access to public charging stations for longer trips or when home charging isn’t an option. Fortunately, several mobile apps are designed to help drivers locate public chargers, easing range anxiety and making EV ownership more convenient. This article explores the best mobile apps to find public chargers and optimize your EV charging experience. 

The Challenge of Finding EV Charging Stations 

Home Charging vs. Public Charging 

For homeowners, charging a car at home is straightforward with the installation of a Level 1 or Level 2 charger. However, for those living in apartments or condos, the situation can be more challenging due to the lack of Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) in many buildings. New construction codes are increasingly requiring EVSE installations, but finding public electric vehicle charging remains essential for many EV owners, especially those who park on the street. 

The Importance of Mobile Apps 

Mobile apps play a vital role in helping EV drivers find public chargers, and an EV charging app can provide real-time information on charger locations, availability, and compatibility. These apps provide real-time information on charger locations, availability, and compatibility per charging session, making it easier to plan trips and ensure a smooth charging experience. Here are some of the top mobile apps that enable drivers to find public chargers on the go. 

Top Mobile Apps to Find Public Chargers 

PlugShare 

PlugShare is one of the most popular and comprehensive EV charging apps available. It features an interactive map that allows users to find public charging stations compatible with their EV. The app includes detailed information on charger types, speeds, and availability, as well as user reviews and photos. PlugShare also offers a trip planner feature, making it easy to find charging locations along your route and go to app itself. 

• Key Features: 

• Filter by plug type and charging speed 

• Real-time availability updates 

• User reviews and photos 

• Trip planner 

• Integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto 

• Discover nearby stations with ease 

 ChargeHub 

ChargeHub provides access to over 200,000 charging stations across North America. The app offers real-time updates on charger availability and allows users to pay for charging sessions directly through the app. ChargeHub’s EV Trip Planner service helps drivers plan their routes and find charging stops along the way. 

• Key Features: 

• Real-time availability status 

• In-app payment 

• EV Trip Planner 

• Community-driven updates and reviews 

• Filter and find free chargers 

ChargePoint 

ChargePoint is a leading provider of EV charging solutions with a network of over 115,000 EV charging stations. The ChargePoint app allows users to find and access charging stations, monitor and track their vehicle’s charging status, and pay for charging sessions. The app also provides notifications when charging sessions are complete. 

• Key Features: 

• Real-time availability and pricing 

• In-app payment 

• Notifications for charging status 

• Integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto 

Electrify America 

Electrify America focuses its business on providing fast charging solutions with a network of Level 3 DC fast charging stations. The Electrify America app allows users to find and reserve charging stations, monitor charging sessions, and receive real-time updates on charger availability. 

• Key Features: 

• Fast charging network 

• Reservation system 

• Real-time charging details 

• Rewards program 

Google Maps 

Google Maps offers a convenient way to find EV charging stations by simply searching for “EV charging stations” in the search bar. The app provides information on charger types, availability, location, and user reviews. Google Maps also integrates with your vehicle’s navigation system to add charging stops to your route. 

• Key Features: 

• Search for nearby charging stations 

• Real-time availability updates 

• Integration with vehicle navigation systems 

Apple Maps 

Apple Maps provides similar functionality to Google Maps, with the added benefit of integrating with your own phone or vehicle’s app to monitor battery levels and predict range loss. The app can automatically direct you to a charging point when necessary and offers detailed information on charger locations and availability. Apple Maps also allows users to filter and find free ones, making it easier to locate cost-effective charging options. 

• Key Features: 

• Integration with vehicle apps 

• Real-time availability updates 

• Predict range loss and add charging stops 

Envoy Mobility App 

Envoy Mobility offers its own mobile app to help users find nearby EV charging stations, monitor charging status, download, and manage their accounts. The Envoy app provides real-time information on charger availability and allows users to start charging sessions remotely. 

• Key Features: 

• Find nearby charging stations 

• Real-time availability updates 

• Remote start charging sessions 

• Account management and payment 

Benefits of Using an EV Charging App 

Convenience and Peace of Mind 

EV charging apps provide convenience and peace of mind by offering real-time information on EV charging station availability and compatibility. This helps reduce range anxiety and ensures that drivers can find a charger when they need it. 

Planning and Efficiency 

These apps allow drivers to plan their trips more efficiently by identifying EV charging station stops along their route. This is particularly useful for long-distance travel, where finding reliable charging stations is crucial. 

Community and Support 

Many EV charging apps feature community-driven updates and reviews, providing valuable insights from other EV drivers about EV charging stations. This helps users make informed decisions about where to charge and avoid potential issues with faulty or busy chargers. 

Conclusion 

Finding public EV charging stations on the go is essential for EV drivers, and mobile apps make this process much easier. With apps like PlugShare, ChargeHub, ChargePoint, Electrify America, Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Envoy Mobility, drivers can locate public chargers, plan their trips, and ensure a smooth charging experience. By leveraging these tools, EV owners can enjoy the benefits of electric mobility without the worry of running out of charge. For those in Los Angeles, Envoy Mobility offers a convenient and eco-friendly transportation option with fully electric vehicles available for rent. With a growing number of charging stations, Envoy Mobility makes it easy to embrace sustainable transportation. Become a member today and join the movement towards a cleaner, greener future.