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	<title>EMP - Saascharge</title>
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		<title>Saascharge Introduces AI-Powered Support with Its New AI Agent: Saasi Botai</title>
		<link>https://saascharge.com/saascharge-introduces-ai-powered-support-with-its-new-ai-agent-saasi-botai/</link>
					<comments>https://saascharge.com/saascharge-introduces-ai-powered-support-with-its-new-ai-agent-saasi-botai/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[richard.albrecht@ralconcept.com]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 12 Jan 2026 10:55:03 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[AI]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Charging station]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CPO]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CSO]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EMP]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EV charging]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Payment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pricing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[AI Agent]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EV Charging Support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Support Agent]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://saascharge.com/?p=233788</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="et_pb_section et_pb_section_0 et_section_regular" >
				
				
				
				
				
				
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				<span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="1020" height="623" src="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Saascharge_AI_Saasi_Botai.png" alt="" title="Saascharge_AI_Saasi_Botai" srcset="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Saascharge_AI_Saasi_Botai.png 1020w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Saascharge_AI_Saasi_Botai-980x599.png 980w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Saascharge_AI_Saasi_Botai-480x293.png 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1020px, 100vw" class="wp-image-233791" /></span>
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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h1><strong>Saascharge Introduces AI-Powered Support with Its New AI Agent: Saasi Botai</strong></h1></div>
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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p>Saascharge is integrating AI into its platform with the launch of an AI-powered support service for our partners. This new AI Agent program, called Saasi Botai, is designed to enhance support services across the Saascharge platform and its applications. The solution is versatile and can be personalized for multiple partners, with a single purpose: <strong>to help, support, and continuously improve the services delivered to our partners and their customers.</strong></p>
<h2><strong>What Is Saasi Botai, and What Can You Expect?</strong></h2>
<p>Saasi Botai is designed to support the consumers of Saascharge partners, EV drivers, and charging site owners by assisting them in locating, initiating, and operating charging stations. The AI Agent responds to user requests in real-time, registers issues as needed, and escalates complex cases to existing support teams.</p>
<p>The AI Agent can answer questions related to:</p>
<ul>
<li>How to use charging services</li>
<li>Pricing and tariffs</li>
<li>Billing and invoicing</li>
<li>Operational issues during charging sessions</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>AI with an Infinite Memory for Processes</strong></h3>
<p>Imagine an EV driver who cannot stop a charging session and contacts a partner’s support channel. Saasi Botai can immediately guide the user through the correct steps,  whether via the mobile app, a credit card terminal, or directly on the vehicle — including instructions on safely unlocking the charging connector.</p>
<p>What makes AI extraordinary is its ability to store and apply a vast number of processes, charging equipment specifications, and vehicle models, enabling Saasi Botai to support EV drivers across a wide range of real-world scenarios. The AI Agent can, for example, instantly deliver clear and accurate answers across millions of possible pricing models and billing configurations, anywhere in the world.</p>
<h3><strong>Intelligence Built on Real Industry Data and Continuous Learning</strong></h3>
<p>This capability is made possible by Saascharge’s deep industry knowledge and data, built from <strong>more than 50 partners worldwide</strong>, managing <strong>tens of thousands of EV drivers and site owners</strong> across a wide variety of charging equipment. Saasi Botai continues to learn from new cases, guided and refined by our human support teams, ensuring accuracy, relevance, and continuous improvement.</p>
<h3><strong>Secure, Privacy-First AI Architecture</strong></h3>
<p>The AI Agent is powered by a Generative AI architecture hosted on <strong>AWS</strong>, leveraging market-leading AI models from <strong>Anthropic</strong>, with the flexibility to adapt to additional models in the future.</p>
<p>This AWS-based approach ensures that:</p>
<ul>
<li>Our proprietary data models remain protected</li>
<li>Customer and partner data privacy is preserved</li>
<li>System integrity and security are maintained</li>
</ul>
<h2><strong>Our AI Strategy: Powered by Humans, Enhanced by AI</strong></h2>
<p>We embrace AI as a core part of Saascharge’s company strategy. Since the widespread adoption of ChatGPT at the end of 2023, and with the emergence of models such as Claude (Anthropic), Gemini (Google), and others, AI has fundamentally changed the way we work and build products.</p>
<p>Our AI strategy follows a <strong>pragmatic and value-driven approach</strong>, structured around four key workstreams:</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Development acceleration</strong> using AI-assisted tools</li>
<li><strong>Support organization enhancement</strong> with AI Agents</li>
<li><strong>Self-care capabilities</strong>, enabling diagnosis and auto-resolution through machine learning</li>
<li><strong>Usage and load prediction</strong> to optimize charging operations</li>
</ol>
<p>We began internally by accelerating development and creating custom applications for partners. Saasi Botai is starting now with structured processes and coaching instructions, and gradually expanding its capabilities through learning and real-world usage.</p>
<p>Our guiding principle is simple: apply AI where it delivers tangible value, without replacing more efficient solutions such as automation or traditional machine learning when those offer better speed and cost efficiency. <strong>For our partners, this means scalable support, better service quality, and controlled operational costs.</strong></p></div>
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			</div><p>The post <a href="https://saascharge.com/saascharge-introduces-ai-powered-support-with-its-new-ai-agent-saasi-botai/">Saascharge Introduces AI-Powered Support with Its New AI Agent: Saasi Botai</a> first appeared on <a href="https://saascharge.com">Saascharge</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<item>
		<title>Step-by-Step Guide to a Successful EV Charging Pricing Strategy</title>
		<link>https://saascharge.com/step-by-step-guide-to-defining-a-successful-ev-charging-pricing-strategy/</link>
					<comments>https://saascharge.com/step-by-step-guide-to-defining-a-successful-ev-charging-pricing-strategy/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[richard.albrecht@ralconcept.com]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 27 Jul 2025 16:25:33 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Charging station]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CPO]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CSO]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EMP]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EV charging]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Payment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pricing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[E-Mobility]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Electromobility]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[eMobility Provider]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EV Charging Billing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EV Charging pricing]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://saascharge.com/?p=233610</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="et_pb_section et_pb_section_1 et_section_regular" >
				
				
				
				
				
				
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				<span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1198" height="600" src="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/EVcharging_pricing_working_blogpost_saascharge_2.png" alt="" title="EVcharging_pricing_working_blogpost_saascharge_2" srcset="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/EVcharging_pricing_working_blogpost_saascharge_2.png 1198w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/EVcharging_pricing_working_blogpost_saascharge_2-980x491.png 980w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/EVcharging_pricing_working_blogpost_saascharge_2-480x240.png 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1198px, 100vw" class="wp-image-233676" /></span>
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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><strong>How to Build Value for EV Drivers with Smart Pricing</strong></h2></div>
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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner">Once your charging stations are operational, ensuring energy flow and availability, pricing becomes one of the most critical success factors for your EV charging network. Applying the right pricing strategy not only attracts drivers but also determines the profitability and long-term viability of your sites. In 2019, we explored <a href="https://saascharge.com/what-should-be-the-right-price-to-charge-an-electric-vehicle/">what constitutes a fair price to charge an electric vehicle</a>. In this article, we take it a step further, offering a comprehensive Step-by-Step guide to defining your pricing objectives, identifying key pricing components, and applying and managing prices effectively.</div>
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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><strong>1. Define Your Pricing Objectives</strong></h2></div>
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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner">Your pricing strategy should align with your company’s broader strategic goals. Are you aiming for aggressive growth? Differentiation through premium experiences (e.g., ultra-fast DC hubs with lounges)? Or are you a retailer or hotel aiming to drive traffic by offering low charging tariffs? Generally, a pricing strategy balances three components:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Costs</strong>: Electricity, including electricity rates, software licensing fees, routine maintenance, customer service, and hardware amortization.</li>
<li><strong>Offer &amp; Demand</strong>: Evaluate the number of available chargers versus the competition and the volume of EV drivers seeking public charging in your area.</li>
<li><strong>Strategic Goals</strong>: Align your pricing strategy with broader company objectives—whether that&#8217;s maximizing usage, promoting loyalty, achieving ROI, or supporting sustainability initiatives.</li>
</ul>
<p>In the EV charging world, we recommend including a fourth pillar: <strong>Charging Station Owner Return</strong> – The most critical stakeholder whose motivations of profit must be managed carefully.</div>
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				<span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="300" height="300" src="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pricing_strategy_blog.png" alt="" title="Pricing_strategy_blog" srcset="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pricing_strategy_blog.png 300w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pricing_strategy_blog-150x150.png 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" class="wp-image-233639" /></span>
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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><strong>2. Use the Right pricing parameters</strong></h2></div>
			</div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_7  et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light">
				
				
				
				
				<div class="et_pb_text_inner">The parameters you choose define how prices are calculated and influence driver behaviour. We group them into three categories:</p>
<h3><strong>A. Standard-Fix Pricing Parameters</strong></h3>
<p>These are the most common and static forms of pricing:</p>
<table style="width: 863px; height: 125px;">
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 23px;">
<td style="width: 133.507px; height: 23px;">
<p data-start="3079" data-end="3135"><strong>Per kWh</strong></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 716.62px; height: 23px;">Energy consumed: the core unit for fairness</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 51px;">
<td style="width: 133.507px; height: 51px;"><strong>Per Minute</strong></td>
<td style="width: 716.62px; height: 51px;">Time-based charging, useful to discourage overstays</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 51px;">
<td style="width: 133.507px; height: 51px;"><strong>Per Session</strong></td>
<td style="width: 716.62px; height: 51px;">A fixed transaction fee, often applied at session start</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<blockquote><p>Combining these with minimum charges or prepaid amounts can optimize both profitability and customer experience.</p></blockquote></div>
			</div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_8  et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light">
				
				
				
				
				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h3><strong>B. Time-dependent Pricing Parameters</strong></h3>
<p>These aim to influence charging behaviour over time:</p>
<table style="width: 916px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 133.414px;"><strong>Time band</strong></td>
<td style="width: 769.711px;">Different tariffs for peak/off-peak hours.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 133.414px;"><strong>Idle</strong></td>
<td style="width: 769.711px;">Charges per minute begin after a grace period once the battery is full.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 133.414px;"><strong>Timer</strong></td>
<td style="width: 769.711px;">Charges per minute begin after a set time, regardless of charging status (e.g., 2 hours max)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>These models promote turnover but must be used carefully in specific locations (e.g., hotels or overnight stays). </div>
			</div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_9  et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light">
				
				
				
				
				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h3><strong>C. Dynamic Pricing Parameters</strong></h3>
<p>Unlike fixed pricing models, dynamic pricing reflects the real-time cost of energy, which fluctuates based on supply and demand influenced by factors such as grid capacity, renewable energy production (e.g., solar and wind), and consumption patterns. Types of Dynamic Pricing:</p>
<table style="width: 988px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 131.644px;"><strong>Load-Based Pricing</strong></td>
<td style="width: 843.484px;">Pricing varies based on the load capacity used. Higher power output (e.g., 150kW vs. 22kW) may justify a higher rate due to infrastructure demands.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 131.644px;"><strong>Cost-Based Pricing</strong></td>
<td style="width: 843.484px;">Prices are calculated using a spot-price model, typically by applying a margin on top of real-time electricity market rates.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<blockquote><p>⚡️ EV charging can represent <strong>up to one-third of a household’s daily energy use</strong>. By 2040, <strong>15–20% of household consumption</strong> could come from EVs. This makes <strong>smart pricing models essential</strong> for balancing demand, energy costs, and grid pressure.</p></blockquote></div>
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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2></h2>
<h2><strong>3. Price Application: How to Apply the Prices</strong></h2>
<p>While EV drivers see a single final price, the application model—how and where prices are set in your backend—impacts personalisation, competitiveness, and flexibility. You can choose to apply prices at either the charging station level or EV driver level.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><strong>EV driver price level – Consumer-oriented</strong></h3>
<table style="width: 760px; height: 129px;">
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 30px;">
<td style="width: 380.521px; text-align: center; height: 30px;"><strong>Pros</strong></td>
<td style="width: 366.597px; text-align: center; height: 30px;"><strong>Cons</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 99px;">
<td style="width: 380.521px; height: 99px;">
<ul>
<li>Allows personalisation per driver or group</li>
<li>Enables loyalty programs and special tariffs</li>
<li>Potential for higher margin via targeted pricing</li>
</ul>
</td>
<td style="width: 366.597px; height: 99px;">
<ul>
<li>Requires more advanced software and processes</li>
<li>Can be harder to communicate and manage</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div>
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				<span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="500" height="324" src="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/EV_driver_pricing_blog.png" alt="" title="EV_driver_pricing_blog" srcset="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/EV_driver_pricing_blog.png 500w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/EV_driver_pricing_blog-480x311.png 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 500px, 100vw" class="wp-image-233649" /></span>
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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h3><strong>Charging Station price level – Operator Oriented</strong></h3>
<table style="width: 762px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center; width: 380.556px;"><strong>Pros</strong></td>
<td style="text-align: center; width: 368.565px;"><strong>Cons</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 380.556px;">
<ul>
<li>Simple to manage and standardise</li>
<li>Easier to maintain operationally</li>
</ul>
</td>
<td style="width: 368.565px;">
<ul>
<li>Limits personalization</li>
<li>Less effective for loyalty or high-value customer segmentation</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Most platforms today default to station-level pricing for simplicity. However, we recommend systems like the Saascharge platform that enable EV driver-level pricing for maximum flexibility and customer engagement.</div>
			</div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_12  et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light">
				
				
				
				
				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><strong>4. Managing &amp; Monitoring your prices</strong></h2>
<p>EV charging prices are only effective when they are <strong data-start="264" data-end="311">actively managed and continuously optimised</strong>. A successful pricing strategy requires both <strong data-start="357" data-end="378">internal analysis</strong> and <strong data-start="383" data-end="408">external benchmarking</strong> on an ongoing basis.</p>
<h3><strong>Internal Analysis</strong></h3>
<p><strong> </strong>This involves analysing your own network’s charging data. Robust reporting and data analysis capabilities are essential to assess:</p>
<ul>
<li data-start="589" data-end="653"><strong data-start="589" data-end="609">Traffic patterns</strong> – Daily, weekly, or seasonal usage trends</li>
<li data-start="656" data-end="719"><strong data-start="656" data-end="677">Charging behaviour</strong> – Duration of sessions, energy consumed</li>
<li data-start="722" data-end="790"><strong data-start="722" data-end="739">User behaviour</strong> – Time of day, frequency of visits, repeat users</li>
</ul>
<p>These insights help you fine-tune pricing at the site level and adapt your strategy to driver habits and demand.</p>
<h3><strong>External Benchmarking</strong></h3>
<p><strong> </strong>This involves evaluating how your pricing compares to others in the market. Key areas to monitor include:</p>
<ul>
<li data-start="1043" data-end="1113"><strong data-start="1043" data-end="1065">Competitor pricing</strong> – What nearby charging providers are charging</li>
<li data-start="1116" data-end="1183"><strong data-start="1116" data-end="1133">Charger types</strong> – Types and power levels offered by competitors</li>
<li data-start="1186" data-end="1270"><strong data-start="1186" data-end="1209">Market expectations</strong> – Regional pricing norms and evolving consumer perceptions</li>
</ul>
<p>While specialised services can provide competitive pricing intelligence, building an <strong data-start="1357" data-end="1408">internal process for regular price benchmarking</strong> is essential for long-term market positioning and profitability.</div>
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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><strong>Final Thoughts: What&#8217;s the &#8220;Right&#8221; Price?</strong></h2>
<p>There is no one-size-fits-all price. The right price:</p>
<ol>
<li data-start="6082" data-end="6134"><strong data-start="6082" data-end="6107">Encourages EV drivers</strong> to charge at your location</li>
<li data-start="6138" data-end="6194"><strong data-start="6138" data-end="6158">Maximises return</strong> for your business and station hosts</li>
</ol>
<p data-start="6196" data-end="6399">Example:<br data-start="6204" data-end="6207" />At a hotel, applying idle fees may deter guests from staying overnight. However, at a busy Super-Fast Charging hub, combining per-kWh pricing with a time limit or idle fee may boost turnover and revenue.</p>
<blockquote>
<p data-start="6401" data-end="6578">Pricing isn’t just a cost; it’s a <strong data-start="6434" data-end="6452">strategic tool</strong>. Use it to <strong data-start="6464" data-end="6501">guide behaviour, boost utilisation</strong>, and ultimately <strong data-start="6518" data-end="6577">deliver value to both drivers and infrastructure owners</strong>.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Next comes the billing and invoicing phase, where you can unlock further opportunities with discounts, loyalty programs, and promotional offers. We’ll cover that in our next post. Stay tuned and follow Saascharge for more insights.</div>
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			</div>
				
				
			</div><p>The post <a href="https://saascharge.com/step-by-step-guide-to-defining-a-successful-ev-charging-pricing-strategy/">Step-by-Step Guide to a Successful EV Charging Pricing Strategy</a> first appeared on <a href="https://saascharge.com">Saascharge</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>Saascharge is Offering Consultancy to its EV Charging Partners with the Access Portal</title>
		<link>https://saascharge.com/saascharge-is-offering-consultancy-to-its-ev-charging-partners-with-the-access-portal/</link>
					<comments>https://saascharge.com/saascharge-is-offering-consultancy-to-its-ev-charging-partners-with-the-access-portal/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[richard.albrecht@ralconcept.com]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 13 Jan 2025 00:58:27 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[API]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Charging access]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Charging station]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Company development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CPO]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CSO]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EMP]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Energy management]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[eRoaming]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Payment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pricing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Saascharge Partner]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[backend]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Charging Station Operator]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Electromobility]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[eMobility Saas platform]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EV charging market development]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://saascharge.com/?p=232935</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="et_pb_section et_pb_section_2 et_section_regular" >
				
				
				
				
				
				
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				<span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Saascharge_consultancy.jpg" alt="" title="Saascharge_consultancy" srcset="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Saascharge_consultancy.jpg 1024w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Saascharge_consultancy-980x551.jpg 980w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Saascharge_consultancy-480x270.jpg 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw" class="wp-image-232938" /></span>
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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p>At Saascharge, we believe that collaboration and knowledge sharing are the keys to thriving in the fast-paced EV charging industry. Staying informed is critical with new protocols (e.g., OCPP 2.0, ISO 15118, AI energy load prediction…), market entrants, and increasingly complex billing concepts. When new market players start or migrate to a new platform—whether their own or the Saascharge platform—the industry landscape can be overwhelming. This makes continuous access to best practices and use cases essential for success.</p>
<p>As a specialized and independent EV charging SaaS platform, Saascharge has developed a collaborative approach with our partners. By sharing insights and strategies, we help them remain competitive in their respective segments, whether targeting the hospitality sector (e.g., hotels, restaurants), the retail industry (e.g., shopping malls, stores), real estate, or fleet management. Now, we’re taking this a step further with the launch of the Saascharge Access Portal, designed to share: a centralized platform that simplifies access to key resources and supports scalability like no other in the EV charging industry.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Product Updates</strong></li>
<li><strong>Latest Market News</strong></li>
<li><strong>Training Documentation</strong></li>
<li><strong>Sales Materials</strong> (e.g., EV charging presentations for EMPs and CPOs)</li>
<li><strong>Direct Support Access</strong></li>
<li>And more&#8230;</li>
</ul></div>
			</div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_5">
				
				
				
				
				<span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img decoding="async" src="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Saascharge_access_portal.png" alt="" title="Saascharge_access_portal" srcset="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Saascharge_access_portal-e1736730227477.png 780w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Saascharge_access_portal-480x340.png 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 780px, 100vw" class="wp-image-232946" /></span>
			</div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_15  et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light">
				
				
				
				
				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><strong>How Do We Support Your EV Charging Network Objectives?</strong></h2>
<p>The EV charging market thrives on scalability and resource optimization. Maximizing transactions per charging point is essential. To achieve this, chargers need to be highly visible, easily locatable, and competitively priced for users searching for charging facilities. Once users arrive, delivering a seamless charging experience—accessible to both registered and non-registered EV drivers—is crucial.</p>
<p><span style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Achieving these objectives involves many processes. At Saascharge, we are committed to sharing these processes openly with our active customers and partners through the <strong>Access Portal</strong>.</span></p>
<p>For instance, consider a company electrifying its fleet. The process begins with defining the required capacity and understanding the charging patterns: <strong>When does charging need to occur?</strong> Next, decisions must be made about the type of charging hardware—whether AC or DC—and the necessary power load. Additionally, the organization must consider:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Multi-purpose usage:</strong> Can the chargers also serve employees or guests?</li>
<li><strong>Pricing structures:</strong> What pricing conditions should apply to each consumer group?</li>
<li><strong>Home charging:</strong> How can home chargers for company cars be managed effectively?</li>
<li><strong>International eRoaming:</strong> Should eRoaming be enabled for cross-border transactions?</li>
<li><strong>Access methods:</strong> What types of access are most suitable—RFID and Plug &amp; Charge for the fleet, a smartphone app for employees, or QR code-based web access for guests?</li>
</ul>
<p>These are just a few of the detailed, step-by-step analyses we support as part of our consultative approach.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><em>&#8220;Sharing is winning. We believe that using platform functions alone isn’t enough. Setting up the right charging solution with the most competitive pricing tailored to your company’s needs can be a game changer—especially when applied with a strategic approach. That’s what we aim to support through our sessions and guides.&#8221;</em><br />– Richard Albrecht, Saascharge CEO</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Let’s work together to make EV charging in 2025 the best experience possible. Contact us today to learn more or access the portal!</p></div>
			</div>
			</div>
				
				
				
				
			</div>
				
				
			</div><p>The post <a href="https://saascharge.com/saascharge-is-offering-consultancy-to-its-ev-charging-partners-with-the-access-portal/">Saascharge is Offering Consultancy to its EV Charging Partners with the Access Portal</a> first appeared on <a href="https://saascharge.com">Saascharge</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>Plug &#038; Charge, Smartphone App, Web App, RFID, Payment terminal, Autocharge… What is the right EV charging Access method for you?</title>
		<link>https://saascharge.com/plug-charge-smartphone-app-web-app-rfid-payment-terminal-autocharge-what-is-the-right-ev-charging-access-method-for-you/</link>
					<comments>https://saascharge.com/plug-charge-smartphone-app-web-app-rfid-payment-terminal-autocharge-what-is-the-right-ev-charging-access-method-for-you/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[richard.albrecht@ralconcept.com]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 05 May 2024 19:32:28 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Charging access]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Charging station]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CPO]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CSO]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EMP]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[eRoaming]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EV charging]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Plug & Charge]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[charging station]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EV charging access]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Payment terminal]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[RFID]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Smartphone]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://saascharge.com/?p=232323</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="et_pb_section et_pb_section_3 et_section_regular" >
				
				
				
				
				
				
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				<span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1165" height="625" src="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/multiple_evcharging_access_methods-e1714992640944.png" alt="" title="multiple_evcharging_access_methods" srcset="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/multiple_evcharging_access_methods-e1714992640944.png 1165w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/multiple_evcharging_access_methods-980x526.png 980w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/multiple_evcharging_access_methods-480x258.png 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1165px, 100vw" class="wp-image-232384" /></span>
			</div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_16  et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light">
				
				
				
				
				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h1><strong>What is the right EV charging Access method for you?</strong></h1>
<p>There are multiple ways to charge an electric vehicle, but unless you&#8217;re using a charger in your home garage, you&#8217;ll need an access control method to initiate a charging transaction. They are known as ISO 15118 Plug &amp; Charge, smartphone apps, web apps, RFID technology, payment terminals, and Autocharge. The question arises: How do they function and which one should we choose? The objective of this post is to determine the optimal charging access method, whether you&#8217;re utilizing a public (commercial), semi-public (fleet), or private (apartment) charging station.</p>
<h2><strong>What are these access methods and how do they work? </strong></h2>
<p>EV charging access methods encompass the technologies used to identify a driver and initiate a charging transaction, aimed at authorizing and invoicing EV drivers. These methods often utilize physical means such as RFID cards or remote access via smartphone or web applications. It&#8217;s important to understand that while these methods facilitate invoicing, they should not be mistaken for the billing protocol, which manages payments after the transaction. We have chosen to categorize access methods based on customer profiles: registered users (subscribers) or occasional users (non-subscribers).</p>
<h3><strong>A. Subscriber EV charging Access method: Requiring prior registration for payment </strong></h3>
<p>These are EV charging access solutions that necessitate registration with an eMobility Service Provider (EMPs).</p>
<h4><strong>Smartphone App</strong></h4>
<p>This method entails EV drivers downloading a smartphone application from an online store (e.g., Play Store, Apple Store&#8230;). EV drivers are required to register to access multiple functions such as charging station identification (QR code or map point selection), initiating and stopping charging sessions, setting up payment methods (e.g., credit card, Google Pay&#8230;), and other features like monitoring energy load and trip planning. These applications are connected to a backend system to facilitate transactions and manage payments.</p>
<table style="width: 869px; height: 146px;">
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 28px;">
<td style="width: 434.676px; height: 28px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>+</strong></span></td>
<td style="width: 433.576px; height: 28px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>&#8211;</strong></span></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 114px;">
<td style="width: 434.676px; height: 114px;">
<ul>
<li>Compatibility with all chargers</li>
<li>Account visibility (e.g. usage, money…)</li>
<li>Additional service availability (Location, wallet, planning…)</li>
</ul>
</td>
<td style="width: 433.576px; height: 114px;">
<ul>
<li>Usability for regular user: Requires to open a smartphone app</li>
<li>Lengthy charger selection process (QR or map)</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h4><strong>RFID</strong></h4>
<p>RFID is a widely adopted technology for access control in offices, homes, or hotel rooms&#8230; To use this method, an EV driver must register and obtain a physical RFID card from an eMobility provider (EMP). The EMP registers the card with its Unique Identifier (UID) to a backend system to manage authorization. The EV driver simply swipes the RFID card on a charging station RFID reader, sending the UID data for identification to the backend. If the card identification is validated, the charging transaction will commence.</p>
<table style="width: 877px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 431.551px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>+</strong></span></td>
<td style="width: 432.569px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>&#8211;</strong></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 431.551px;">
<ul>
<li>Ease of use (Swipe)</li>
<li>Compatibility with almost any charger</li>
</ul>
</td>
<td style="width: 432.569px;">
<ul>
<li>No usage visibility</li>
<li><span style="font-size: 14px;">Logistic delivery process (card shipping)</span></li>
<li>Security (e.g. copy of UID fraud)</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h4><strong>Autocharge</strong></h4>
<p>Autocharge is the capability to recognize a vehicle connected to a charging station automatically. This functionality allows a charging station equipped with Autocharge to directly identify a connected vehicle using its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or MAC address. Subsequently, this data is transmitted to the eMobility platform for validation. Autocharge is considered a Plug &amp; Charge charging method. The identification principle is similar to RFID, as the user must register the car data with the eMobility provider.</p>
<table style="width: 858px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 407.685px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>+</strong></span></td>
<td style="width: 437.442px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>&#8211;</strong></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 407.685px;">
<ul>
<li>Ease of use (Plug &amp; charge)</li>
<li><span style="font-size: 14px;">Setup ease for charging network</span></li>
</ul>
</td>
<td style="width: 437.442px;">
<ul>
<li>Not applicable for eRoaming</li>
<li>Lengthy registration process with Mac address</li>
<li>No usage visibility</li>
<li>Limited to DC chargers</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h4><strong>Plug &amp; Charge (ISO 15118)</strong></h4>
<p>The ISO 15118 principle is comparable to Autocharge, with the distinction that this technology handles the EV driver&#8217;s subscription through smart contracts registered within the electric vehicle. Similar to registering a phone with a cellular network, the user selects their eMobility provider (network) directly from the car. This enables secure charging across multiple EV charging networks without the risk of multiple subscriptions, as with Autocharge.</p>
<table style="width: 853px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 416.551px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>+</strong></span></td>
<td style="width: 423.576px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>&#8211;</strong></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 416.551px;">
<ul>
<li>Ease of use (Plug &amp; charge)</li>
<li>Works with eRoaming</li>
<li><span style="font-size: 14px;">In car registration process (infotainment system)</span></li>
</ul>
</td>
<td style="width: 423.576px;">
<ul>
<li>Limited market adoption of OEM (Charger &amp; Cars)</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><strong style="color: #333333; font-size: 22px;">B. Non-Subscriber EV Charging Access Method: On-Site Direct Payment</strong></p>
<p>These are contactless methods that allow access on-site without prior registration.</p>
<h4><strong>QR – Web Application</strong></h4>
<p>This contactless payment method utilizes a QR code to open a web page, enabling users to initiate a transaction by entering payment details (such as credit cards or services like Google Pay or Apple Pay).</p>
<table style="width: 839px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 411.551px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>+</strong></span></td>
<td style="width: 414.572px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>&#8211;</strong></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 411.551px;">
<ul>
<li>Cost attractive for Charging network (Cost a QR Sticker)</li>
<li>Compatible to all charging stations</li>
</ul>
</td>
<td style="width: 414.572px;">
<ul>
<li>Potential Fraud risk (Information phishing cases)</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h4><strong>Payment Terminal</strong></h4>
<p>The payment terminal is a physical device attached to a charging station that allows drivers to initiate a charging transaction by swiping a credit card on an NFC reader. These Point of Sale (POS) software systems are connected to the charging network backend, which manages the charging process, and to a merchant bank that facilitates settlement of the credit card payment.</p>
<table style="width: 836px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 426.748px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>+</strong></span></td>
<td style="width: 408.507px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>&#8211;</strong></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 426.748px;">
<ul>
<li>Ease of use (Swipe &amp; Charge)</li>
</ul>
</td>
<td style="width: 408.507px;">
<ul>
<li>High cost for the device and operation (for charging network)</li>
<li><span style="font-size: 14px;">Limited to certain type of chargers</span></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div>
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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><strong>How shall I apply these access methods? </strong></h2>
<p>The decision to offer these various methods should primarily be based on the location and the type of customers.</p></div>
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				<span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="428" src="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/EVcharging_access_method_positioning.png" alt="" title="EVcharging_access_method_positioning" srcset="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/EVcharging_access_method_positioning.png 800w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/EVcharging_access_method_positioning-480x257.png 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 800px, 100vw" class="wp-image-232359" /></span>
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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p>We can observe how various technologies diverge depending on their usage. For example, contactless methods applicability depends on the type of charging stations with QR codes being suitable for Level 2, and credit card terminals being preferred for fast chargers. Additionally, in private and semi-private environments, RFID is ideal for residential settings with AC chargers, while Autocharge is well-suited for companies with fast chargers. When accessing public chargers, we recommend using a Smartphone application, and when applicable, Plug &amp; Charge ISO 15118 due to its high level of convenience.</p>
<h2><strong>What Access Method Should EV Charging Networks Adopt? </strong></h2>
<p><strong> </strong>We recommend the following approach for eMobility providers and Charging Point Operators when selecting and applying access methods:</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>1st: Flexibility:</strong> Utilize these methods in parallel based on the service provider system (CPO or EMP backend) and charging station technology.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>2nd: Openness:</strong> As a principle Commercial and Public charging stations should be accessible for both registered and non-registered users.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>3rd: Convenience:</strong> Prioritize user experience, offering the convenience of using a service without registration, while registered users should benefit from features like &#8220;click &amp; charge&#8221; or &#8220;Plug &amp; Charge&#8221;.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Finally, commercial conditions should be tailored to the registration process. While charging services should be available to anyone, subscribers should always receive preferential conditions.</p></div>
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			</div><p>The post <a href="https://saascharge.com/plug-charge-smartphone-app-web-app-rfid-payment-terminal-autocharge-what-is-the-right-ev-charging-access-method-for-you/">Plug & Charge, Smartphone App, Web App, RFID, Payment terminal, Autocharge… What is the right EV charging Access method for you?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://saascharge.com">Saascharge</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>Road to profitability or preparation to hockey stick? EV charging tendencies that will make a difference in 2024!</title>
		<link>https://saascharge.com/road-to-profitability-or-preparation-to-hockey-stick-ev-charging-tendencies-that-will-make-a-difference-in-2024/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[richard.albrecht@ralconcept.com]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 17 Dec 2023 19:48:35 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[CPO]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CSO]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Electric vehicle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EMP]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pricing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://saascharge.com/?p=31324</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
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				<span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1110" height="624" src="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/EV_charging_trends_2024_image_link.png" alt="" title="EV_charging_trends_2024_image_link" srcset="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/EV_charging_trends_2024_image_link.png 1110w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/EV_charging_trends_2024_image_link-300x169.png 300w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/EV_charging_trends_2024_image_link-1024x576.png 1024w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/EV_charging_trends_2024_image_link-768x432.png 768w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/EV_charging_trends_2024_image_link-1080x607.png 1080w" sizes="(max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px" class="wp-image-31327" /></span>
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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p>As announced at ICNC 2023, the EV charging market is entering a new phase characterized by increased profitability, shifting away from endless investments with no near-term market return. According to the latest <a href="https://www.wri.org/insights/countries-adopting-electric-vehicles-fastest">WRI report</a>, global sales of electric vehicles are nearing 10 to 80%, signaling that we are entering a transformative phase.</p>
<p>From the perspective of the EV charging network, we are entering a scaling phase where the number of charging points and transactions are crucial. We believe that achieving this scale requires offering the best service, attractive prices, and a healthy cost base. Regarding products, while we acknowledge the need for more intelligence in energy management, we also recognize that it remains a commodity. Therefore, the focus is on products that drive transactions. In this context, here are our commercial trends for 2024.</p></div>
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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><strong>1. More access and payment mean greater availability! </strong></h2>
<p>A charging station located in a public area should be accessible to anyone, much like an ATM is available to any debit card holder. In the EV charging world, accessibility entails providing contactless payment methods for non-subscribers or, for subscribers, using your network or another network through eRoaming. Direct payment methods without registration are crucial, especially in some US states or countries such as the UK or Germany.</p></div>
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				<span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="346" src="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/EV_charging_engagement_model_.png" alt="" title="EV_charging_engagement_model_" srcset="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/EV_charging_engagement_model_.png 800w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/EV_charging_engagement_model_-300x130.png 300w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/EV_charging_engagement_model_-768x332.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" class="wp-image-31351" /></span>
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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h3><strong>QR – Web-based payment</strong></h3>
<p>Scan a QR code, add your credit card, Google Pay, or Apple Pay on a webpage, and click &#8216;Start Charge.&#8217; This straightforward QR web direct payment method eliminates the need for registration. It is a low-cost solution with no maintenance fees, making it ideal for guest parking areas.</p>
<h3><strong>Payment terminal</strong></h3>
<p>The physical payment terminal is operated by payment software and facilitates contactless payments through NFC technology. This solution, offered by companies like Payter or Nayax, has been widely embraced by numerous charging station Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). While it is a recognized consumer solution, it comes with a significant cost both in terms of acquisition and maintenance, similar to Level 2 chargers. However, it proves most effective for DC Super-fast chargers (DCSFC)</p>
<h3><strong>Plug and charge &#8211; ISO 15118</strong></h3>
<p>The plug and charge principle, well-known for Tesla super-fast chargers, is now accessible across all networks through the ISO 15118 standard. Simply plug in your car, start charging, and your account will be credited automatically. The key principle involves integrating the network subscription within the car through a smart contract, enabling recognition of the EV driver in any network. This integration necessitates alignment among the car, the charger, and the operating network (CPO and EMP). As seamless as making a phone call, this method represents the future of EV charging!</p>
<h2><strong>2. Dynamic Pricing, Load Pricing to Stimulate Charging Events</strong></h2>
<p>Load management is a complex process that necessitates behavioral changes in charging practices. Rather than imposing strict capacity restrictions, we believe that optimizing load is best achieved through incentivizing when to charge. This involves introducing dynamic pricing models that vary based on both time and power consumption.&#8221;</p>
<h3><strong>EV Driver load pricing, the &#8216;pay for what you need&#8217; principle</strong></h3>
<p>This feature enables offering EV drivers various prices for different charging capacities, allowing users to pay a premium for full power instead of waiting with lower power. For instance, if you&#8217;re planning an extended trip and need your car fully charged overnight, you may choose to pay more for a full 11 or 22 kW, while other residents might prefer the lowest tariffs for their daily commute. The concept is to assign value to the power output.</p>
<h3><strong>Dynamic pricing</strong></h3>
<p>This function aims to provide varied prices based on the grid capacity. When the electricity network has surplus capacity, a lower price will be offered. Conversely, during periods of limited capacity, higher prices will be applicable. This approach encourages EV drivers to adjust their charging behavior, thereby supporting the capacity of the electricity grid. It represents a win-win solution for all parties involved: EV drivers, charging networks, and grid operators.</p>
<h2><strong>3. Advertising &amp; Promotion – Attracting EV Drivers to Your Locations</strong></h2>
<p>The success of public/commercial chargers&#8217; business model hinges on maximizing EV transactions. This goal can be accomplished by promoting your network through special prices and commercial offerings.</p>
<h3><strong>Attract EV Drivers to Your Location with Advertising</strong></h3>
<p>For retailers, restaurants, hotels, and other commercial establishments, charging infrastructure presents a valuable opportunity to draw customers to their premises. <a href="https://saascharge.com/voucher-coupons-or-charging-allowance-for-ev-drivers-thats-whats-possible-with-an-advanced-pre-pay-solution/">Charging vouchers</a>, coupled with other promotions such as coffee or meal discounts, serve as tools to guide customers to choose their charging locations over others, as discussed in <a href="https://saascharge.com/ev-charging-for-retailers-how-to-turn-charging-into-a-shopping-opportunity/">this article</a>. We develop geo-advertising tools to promote their locations through advertisements on both their smartphone applications and the screens of their charging stations</p>
<h3><strong>Let&#8217;s shift gears and gear up for the hockey stick growth!</strong></h3>
<p>The key to supporting this surge lies in delivering the right charging services, propelling revenues and growth to new heights. At Saascharge, we are looking forward to working together towards this objective.</p></div>
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			</div><p>The post <a href="https://saascharge.com/road-to-profitability-or-preparation-to-hockey-stick-ev-charging-tendencies-that-will-make-a-difference-in-2024/">Road to profitability or preparation to hockey stick? EV charging tendencies that will make a difference in 2024!</a> first appeared on <a href="https://saascharge.com">Saascharge</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>Make or buy an EV charging platform? How about making both by using APIs to customize your charging service?</title>
		<link>https://saascharge.com/make-or-buy-an-ev-charging-platform-how-about-making-both-by-using-apis-to-customize-your-charging-service/</link>
					<comments>https://saascharge.com/make-or-buy-an-ev-charging-platform-how-about-making-both-by-using-apis-to-customize-your-charging-service/#comments</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[richard.albrecht@ralconcept.com]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 13 Aug 2023 14:10:11 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[API]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Charging station]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Company development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CPO]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CSO]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Electric vehicle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EMP]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Energy management]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[eRoaming]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EV charging]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[OCPI]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Payment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pricing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Back office API]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[backend]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Charging Point Operator API]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Charging station operator API]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[eMobility Provider API]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EV Charging API]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EV charging market development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EV charigng software]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://saascharge.com/?p=31226</guid>

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				<span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img decoding="async" src="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Make_or_buy_ChargingstationAPIs.png" alt="" title="Make_or_buy_ChargingstationAPIs" srcset="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Make_or_buy_ChargingstationAPIs-e1692017218432.png 1065w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Make_or_buy_ChargingstationAPIs-e1692017218432-300x169.png 300w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Make_or_buy_ChargingstationAPIs-e1692017218432-1024x576.png 1024w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Make_or_buy_ChargingstationAPIs-e1692017218432-768x432.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1065px) 100vw, 1065px" class="wp-image-31233" /></span>
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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p>All customers providing commercial EV charging services utilize a platform known as the back office. This platform serves as the central hub for operating charging stations, handling tasks such as support, authorization, billing, and energy management. The majority of market players opt for one of three approaches: developing a proprietary platform in-house, purchasing an existing platform from the market, or utilizing a Software as a Service (SAAS) platform. Each of these approaches comes with its own set of strengths and weaknesses but what is the best approach?</p>
<h2><strong>EV charging backend growing market requirements</strong></h2>
<p>The era of relying on an OCPP driver providing CDRs (charging data records), basic pricing plans with an operational console along with an app for initiating transactions, has passed. Today, a competitive EV charging backend is required to provide complex pricing mechanisms, accommodate various tiers of customers (Charging station operator, Site owner, locations…), and manage billing processes involving the integration of diverse payment gateways (e.g. Stripe, Payter, TRX, among others). Next to that, we have to integrate energy management protocols such as OSCP or OpenADR, assimilate different eRoaming protocols (such as OICP, OCPI) and hubs (e.g. Hubject, Gireve), and ultimately merge all of this seamlessly into a company&#8217;s operational environment (e.g. ERP integration). This requires knowledge and a state-of-the-art EV platform.</p>
<h2><strong>EV charging backend market models</strong></h2>
<ol>
<li><strong>House-made development: </strong>This entails the necessity of recruiting or establishing a comprehensive IT and product team to fabricate a competitively viable platform.</li>
<li><strong>Purchasing an existing market solution: </strong>These pre-constructed solutions are retailed by companies specializing in commercial EV Charging backends, often offering room for certain customizations.</li>
<li><strong>SAAS solution:</strong> This involves acquiring a fully prepared and hosted market-ready backend and application through a licensed arrangement, typically based on charging points with system integrations facilitated by APIs.</li>
</ol>
<h2><strong>Make, buy, or lease an EV charging software? Let’s compare!</strong></h2>
<p>Here is a short estimated comparison for 1’000 to 10’000 charging points with development costs that includes all charges for a complete charging service setup: (Analysis, Development, testing, White labeling, configuration…). The yearly management costs include hosting (server), service support, and market adaptations (new functionalities).</p>
<table style="width: 991px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 133.16px;">Model</td>
<td style="width: 167.199px;">Development costs ($)</td>
<td style="width: 213.264px;">Yearly Management costs ($)</td>
<td style="width: 454.595px;">Strengths &amp; Weaknesses</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 133.16px;">House-made development</td>
<td style="width: 167.199px; text-align: center;">1’000’000 to 2’000’000</td>
<td style="width: 213.264px; text-align: center;">250’000 to 750’000</td>
<td style="width: 454.595px; text-align: left;">
<p>+ Full flexibility</p>
<p>+ IP ownership</p>
<p>&#8211; Requires expertise and analysis (Consultancy, product definition…)</p>
<p>&#8211; Expensive to develop and manage</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 133.16px;">Buy an existing development</td>
<td style="width: 167.199px; text-align: center;">250’000 to 1’000’000</td>
<td style="width: 213.264px; text-align: center;">50’000 to 500’000</td>
<td style="width: 454.595px; text-align: left;">
<p>+ Faster to market with existing frameworks</p>
<p>+ Proven technology</p>
<p>&#8211; Low differentiation based on “copy” of existing backends</p>
<p>&#8211; Expensive maintenance and market adaptations</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 133.16px;">SAAS solution</td>
<td style="width: 167.199px; text-align: center;">5’000 to 30’000</td>
<td style="width: 213.264px; text-align: center;">30’000 to 300,000</td>
<td style="width: 454.595px; text-align: left;">
<p>+ Fastest model to market</p>
<p>+ Price competitiveness</p>
<p>+ Constant market adaptation</p>
<p>&#8211; Less flexibility</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The optimal approach depends on your company&#8217;s structure, strategy, and timeline for achieving your objectives. Based on this analysis, it appears that the most suitable model would be to begin by utilizing a competitive SAAS solution until you have reached a certain number of charging stations (e.g., 10,000). At that point, it could become financially viable to develop your own platform. However, this decision goes beyond a mere &#8216;make or buy&#8217; cost analysis. <u>Establishing your own platform would necessitate assembling a comprehensive team of market experts, analysts, and developers, solely to create a standard version. This expertise is readily available with a SAAS solution, and additionally, you gain the flexibility to customize your platform by integrating key systems (e.g. ERP for invoicing, ticketing system, CRM&#8230;) with APIs.</u></p>
<h2><strong>What if you could customize and adapt your model progressively?</strong></h2>
<p>It&#8217;s evident that every emerging EV charging business undergoes a learning curve. By commencing with a SAAS solution, you can create an attractive product, pricing, and distribution model, and subsequently refine the approach on a step-by-step basis by integrating key applications. This is possible through a modular and evolutive platform such as Saascharge with its <a href="https://saascharge.com/saascharge-api-portfolio/">API catalog</a>.</p></div>
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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p>At Saascharge, we have noticed that around 30% of customers (including CPOs or EMPs) tend to start by gradually integrating essential business applications. Then, they explore the possibility of developing more significant Smartphone Apps or other user-facing applications.</p>
<h2><strong>The benefit to invest and develop in what truly matters</strong></h2>
<p>The foundation of a great EV charging solution lies in delivering reliable and cost-attractive charging services. There are core service elements that you can hardly differentiate from other EV charging software. It&#8217;s all about specifics! For example, integrating with an external Energy Management System (EMS) for load management or linking with an ERP to automate invoicing for fleets, rather than relying on standard ‘credit cards’ payments. This holds greater significance than attempting to replicate existing features. You can also build specialized business applications for hotels, Fleets, Real estate management or Retailers…</p>
<h2><strong>Start Your EV Charging Journey with a Competitive SAAS Model and Evolve through Selective API System Integration</strong></h2>
<p>Despite weighing the pros and cons of various models, a backend inherently offers a range of shared functionalities. Initiating your journey today using a competitive SAAS model with API integration is a pragmatic approach to adapt your model as you grow (e.g. more EV Drivers, charging points…). This is an opportunity to create a unique EV charging product built upon your proprietary applications! Make or buy an EV charging platform? Don’t compromise, let’s get the best of both!</p></div>
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			</div><p>The post <a href="https://saascharge.com/make-or-buy-an-ev-charging-platform-how-about-making-both-by-using-apis-to-customize-your-charging-service/">Make or buy an EV charging platform? How about making both by using APIs to customize your charging service?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://saascharge.com">Saascharge</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>EV Charging for Retailers: How to turn Charging into a Shopping Opportunity?</title>
		<link>https://saascharge.com/ev-charging-for-retailers-how-to-turn-charging-into-a-shopping-opportunity/</link>
					<comments>https://saascharge.com/ev-charging-for-retailers-how-to-turn-charging-into-a-shopping-opportunity/#comments</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[richard.albrecht@ralconcept.com]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 25 Feb 2022 07:55:32 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Charging station]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CPO]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CSO]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Electric vehicle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EMP]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[eRoaming]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EV charging]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[OCPI]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[backend]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[charging station]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Charging Station Operator]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[electric vehicle charging]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Shop & Charge]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Shop&charge]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://saascharge.com/?p=30644</guid>

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				<span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1115" height="627" src="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shopcharge_experience.png" alt="" title="shop&amp;charge_experience" srcset="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shopcharge_experience.png 1115w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shopcharge_experience-300x169.png 300w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shopcharge_experience-1024x576.png 1024w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shopcharge_experience-768x432.png 768w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shopcharge_experience-1080x607.png 1080w" sizes="(max-width: 1115px) 100vw, 1115px" class="wp-image-30651" /></span>
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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p>Customers Re-fueling their car after shopping has become an after-sales standard which is why many retailers operate gas stations. However, with the growth of electric vehicles, they have to think differently! EV charging is more than just a “potential full tank” after shopping; It is a chance to attract new customers, build loyalty, and valorize a forgotten asset; Car parks! This by just installing a few EV charging stations per store and &#8211; crucially &#8211; connecting these stations with their loyalty management systems to offer the best “shop and charge” experience.</p>
<h2><strong>Why is EV charging so interesting for Retailers? </strong></h2>
<p>There are many benefits to provide EV charging services next to the obvious market transition from gasoline to electric.</p>
<h3><strong>1. Perfect location</strong></h3>
<p>Retailers have the 3 most critical success factors to make an EV charging network successful:  Locations (the stores), Drivers (the shoppers) and an Occupation while charging (shopping)</p>
<h3><strong>2. Attracting more customers at stores</strong></h3>
<p>In today’s online delivery era, having new reasons to get consumers onsite for an in-store experience is more important than ever (10 times more sales than online according to <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/306678">entrepreneur</a>)</p>
<h3><strong>3. Generate new revenues with EV charging</strong></h3>
<p>Sales start at the parking, with $10 to $30 revenue per charging session!</p>
<h2><strong>Make or buy: Shall retailers provide or outsource EV charging services?</strong></h2>
<p>It is a legitimate question since electric vehicles represent only ~2% of cars on the road and specialized EV companies are willing to install chargers at “no costs”. These outsourcing models similar to a “Vending machine” proposition can be attractive if we manage a few drawbacks:</p>
<ul>
<li><u>Direct relationship with consumers</u>: Managing EV drivers offers the benefit to engage and push targeted cross-marketing actions (product advertising, promotions…)</li>
<li><u>Full access to charging data</u>: Direct access to charging data (Who, when, how long, how much…) is a necessity if Retailers wants to develop their own “shop and charge” strategy</li>
<li><u>Charging income model</u>: Whether it is a revenue share or commission model, getting access to $10’000 to $50’000 annual income per charger shall not be underestimated</li>
</ul>
<p>Now if retailers can operate gas stations, providing EV charging as charging station operator and eMobility provider shall not be much of a challenge. Especially as they can mandate <u>engineering companies to install and maintain chargers while using a white label EV cloud-based platform (e.g. <a href="https://saascharge.com/product-portfolio/">Saascharge</a>) to operate and commercialize charging services (authorization, eRoaming, billing…)</u>.</p>
<h2><strong>What kind of EV charging strategy can retailers adopt?</strong></h2>
<p>Offering EV charging services while shopping is only a beginning. The real opportunity is to steer EV drivers to selected shopping sites. For this, three different aspects need to be considered:</p>
<ul>
<li>Integration of EV charging with loyalty and store data</li>
<li>Development of commercial strategies to attract and stimulate EV drivers</li>
<li>Establishment of key partnerships to valorize your EV charging assets</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>1. Use the power of data</strong></h3>
<p>EV drivers in need of a charge require a smartphone application, RFID cards (e.g. retail loyalty card) or in-car systems (Plug &amp; Charge) to find and start charging sessions. These systems collect valuable traffic data (Consumer ID, location, usage, time, state of battery….) that can be combined with consumers and real-time retail data (e.g. store frequentation, promotions, inventory…) to create <u>a powerful customer journey</u>:</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p></div>
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				<span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1361" height="788" src="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shopcharge_integration_customer_journey.png" alt="" title="shop&amp;charge_integration_customer_journey" srcset="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shopcharge_integration_customer_journey.png 1361w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shopcharge_integration_customer_journey-300x174.png 300w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shopcharge_integration_customer_journey-1024x593.png 1024w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shopcharge_integration_customer_journey-768x445.png 768w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/shopcharge_integration_customer_journey-1080x625.png 1080w" sizes="(max-width: 1361px) 100vw, 1361px" class="wp-image-30652" /></span>
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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p>The principle is to feed these charging, loyalty and inventory data with advanced recommendation engines, such as reinforcement learning algorithms <u>to push the right product to the right customer at the exact location</u>!</p>
<h3><strong>2. Develop a commercial strategy to engage with EV drivers</strong></h3>
<p>This is about how Retailers can engage with the “Shop and Charge” experience to <u>increase retention and convert occasional shoppers into regular ones</u>.</p>
<h4><strong>A. Attract EV consumers by offering better charging rates</strong></h4>
<p>Segment customers by offering members better-charging conditions (e.g. $0.20 per kWh for members instead of $0.30 per kWh for guests…) and pushing guests to sign up for loyalty cards.</p>
<h4><strong>B. Stimulate EV driver sales with circumstantial offerings</strong></h4>
<p>Imagine a regular shopper driving home with low batteries and looking for a charging site on the store application. We now know who needs a charge; For example, a young professional with a shopping history indicates that she is an amateur of “fine food”. This information enables retailers to push promotions for fresh Italian pasta at a store located on their way home! <u>On top of that, they can offer further promotions on “sell-by date” vegetables yielding better inventory turnover and reducing waste</u>.</p>
<h4><strong>C. Make consumers stay longer with EV charging</strong></h4>
<p>Charging an electric vehicle can take from 20 to 120 minutes depending on the type of vehicle and charging stations. This is a great reason to motivate customers to get a longer shopping journey by upselling in-store services. Let’s take the example of <u>a family getting a shopping break while charging their car. The store could offer coupons for restaurants or coffees to extend their stay</u>. This is possible as we know who is charging (loyalty member), the level of the battery (state of charge) and shopping habits (e.g. coffee).</p>
<h3><strong> </strong><strong>3. Valorize your EV charging service by creating new partnerships</strong></h3>
<p>The number of stores that Walmart covers in the US (5’000), Carrefour (5,592) in France and Tesco in the UK (4’008) could make them among the largest EV networks by just adding 3 to 5 chargers per location. This is an ideal basis for partnerships as:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong><a href="https://saascharge.com/charging-station-operator/">Charging Point Operator (CPO)</a> offering charging access to other EV market</strong> <strong>players </strong>such as car manufacturers with dedicated promotions to attract drivers of specific brands (e.g. Ford, Toyota, VW…).</li>
<li><strong><a href="https://saascharge.com/emobility-provider/">eMobility service providers (EMP)</a> giving loyalty members access to other EV charging networks with <a href="https://saascharge.com/eroaming/">eRoaming</a>. </strong>This with preferential “charge and leisure” offers (e.g. wellness, golf club, hotels…) thanks to the large group of consumers they represent.</li>
</ul>
<h2><strong>Going full EV is the only way! Start now, collect data and build up your future! </strong></h2>
<p>Some Retailers have already started providing charging services to follow a trend or for image reasons but being present isn’t enough! We believe that the real opportunity for Retailers is an end-to-end “Shop and charge” strategy! This is a unique chance <u>to interact with consumers from home to shopping destinations</u>.</p></div>
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			</div><p>The post <a href="https://saascharge.com/ev-charging-for-retailers-how-to-turn-charging-into-a-shopping-opportunity/">EV Charging for Retailers: How to turn Charging into a Shopping Opportunity?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://saascharge.com">Saascharge</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>Meeting the Rising Demand for Public EV Charging Stations in America</title>
		<link>https://saascharge.com/meeting-the-rising-demand-for-public-ev-charging-stations-in-america/</link>
					<comments>https://saascharge.com/meeting-the-rising-demand-for-public-ev-charging-stations-in-america/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[richard.albrecht@ralconcept.com]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2020 20:31:44 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[CPO]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CSO]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Electric vehicle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EMP]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[eRoaming]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EV charging]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[OCPI]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[charging station]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Charging Station Operator]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[E-Mobility]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[electric vehicle charging]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Electromobility]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EVSE]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://saascharge.com/?p=30224</guid>

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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p>Cars are back on the road! It’s time to speak about the rising Demand for Public EV Charging Stations in America, which is the title of the next happy hour organised by Women in Cleantech and Sustainability and Marin Energy &amp; Transportation Group.</p>
<p>What are the biggest challenges of EV charging in the US? How does public connected charging stations work? Who should lead this transformation? These are the topics that <a class="share-update-card__update-text-link public-post__update-text-link" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardalbrechtinnovation?trk=public-post_share-update_update-text" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" data-tracking-control-name="public-post_share-update_update-text" data-tracking-will-navigate="">Richard Albrecht</a>, Founder &amp; CEO will have the opportunity to address in this session!</p>
<p>Get seated, prepare your refreshments and join us Thursday, July 16, 2020, at 5 pm PT for this Virtual Happy Hour! Please, book your event now! The event has a small entry fee but as friends and partners of Saascharge, you can benefit from 30% discount with this code. Please contact us for further information.</p></div>
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				<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/meeting-the-rising-demand-for-public-ev-charging-stations-in-america-tickets-110842689468" target="_blank"><span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="540" src="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Eventbride_women_in_cleantech_happyhour_meeting_rising_demand_in_EV.jpg" alt="" title="Eventbride_women_in_cleantech_happyhour_meeting_rising_demand_in_EV" srcset="https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Eventbride_women_in_cleantech_happyhour_meeting_rising_demand_in_EV.jpg 1080w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Eventbride_women_in_cleantech_happyhour_meeting_rising_demand_in_EV-300x150.jpg 300w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Eventbride_women_in_cleantech_happyhour_meeting_rising_demand_in_EV-1024x512.jpg 1024w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Eventbride_women_in_cleantech_happyhour_meeting_rising_demand_in_EV-768x384.jpg 768w, https://saascharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Eventbride_women_in_cleantech_happyhour_meeting_rising_demand_in_EV-570x285.jpg 570w" sizes="(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" class="wp-image-30236" /></span></a>
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			</div><p>The post <a href="https://saascharge.com/meeting-the-rising-demand-for-public-ev-charging-stations-in-america/">Meeting the Rising Demand for Public EV Charging Stations in America</a> first appeared on <a href="https://saascharge.com">Saascharge</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
					
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