Must-Have Smartphone Apps for Total Electric Car Control

1. Tesla App

For Tesla owners, the Tesla app is essential for controlling and monitoring your vehicle. It allows users to:

Check Battery Levels: Instantly see your battery status and driving range.
Control Charging: Start, stop, and schedule charging sessions, either at home or at a Supercharger location.
Climate Control: Precondition your car’s interior temperature before you get in, which helps with comfort and battery efficiency, especially in extreme weather conditions.
Software Updates: Receive notifications about new software updates and install them with a simple tap.
Location Services: Use GPS to find the nearest Supercharger station or service center.

By integrating real-time updates and controls, the Tesla app empowers owners with comprehensive management options for their vehicle.

2. ChargePoint

ChargePoint is one of the largest networks of electric vehicle charging stations. The ChargePoint app includes features that make charging easy and convenient:

Find Charging Stations: Locate thousands of charging stations across the country using the interactive map.
Real-Time Availability: Check the availability and status of charging stations in real time, so you won’t waste time driving to a location that’s already in use.
Start and Stop Charging Sessions: Remotely initiate your charging session and monitor its progress directly from your phone.
Payment Options: Easily pay for charging sessions directly through the app, avoiding awkward interactions at the station.
Charging History: Review your charging history, which helps in monitoring your usage and understanding costs.

The ChargePoint app simplifies the charging experience, making it a must-have for electric vehicle owners.

3. PlugShare

PlugShare is a widely used app that offers a comprehensive overview of charging stations from multiple networks. Key features include:

Community-Driven Data: Users can add new charging stations, report issues, and share their experiences and tips.
Filter Options: Easily filter the stations by charging speed, type of connector, and network.
User Reviews: Read firsthand feedback from other users to ensure a trustworthy charging experience.
Trip Planner: Use the built-in trip planning feature to find charging options along your route, ensuring you never run out of charge on long trips.
Charging Station Status: Communicate issues in real-time with other users through comments, which can save you time and frustration.

With its rich data and community engagement, PlugShare is vital for any electric vehicle enthusiast.

4. EVgo

The EVgo app is essential for users of the EVgo fast-charging network. Its features are designed for convenient and efficient charging:

Locate Fast Charging Stations: Find EVgo fast chargers easily through the app’s interface.
Real-Time Station Information: Get real-time updates on station availability, which is crucial for efficient charging.
Membership and Payment: Manage your account, view charging sessions, and make payments directly through the app.
Find Promotions: Stay updated on exclusive offers and promotions for charging via the app.
Charging History: View and track your charging history to help manage your budget.

The EVgo app maximizes fast-charging convenience and efficiency.

5. MyChevrolet

MyChevrolet integrates various vehicle controls and connectivity features for electric Chevrolet models. Notable functionalities include:

Remote Access: Lock/unlock doors, start the engine, and activate climate settings from your phone.
Charging Schedules: Set charging schedules for your Chevrolets to take advantage of lower electricity rates.
Vehicle Diagnostics: Monitor your vehicle’s health with diagnostics and alerts for required maintenance.
Navigation Features: Receive up-to-date traffic information and directions to nearby charging locations.
Smart Home Integration: Use the app in conjunction with smart home devices to monitor energy consumption and charging performance.

This app enhances the user experience for Chevrolet EV owners by consolidating vehicle management into one accessible platform.

6. Hyundai Bluelink

Hyundai Bluelink provides a suite of features for electric Hyundai owners, focusing on connectivity and convenience:

Remote Start and Stop: Start or stop charging remotely and set up climate control settings without needing to be near the car.
Location Sharing: Share your vehicle’s location with family members through the app.
Maintenance Notifications: Receive alerts for scheduled maintenance and system updates directly on your smartphone.
Stolen Vehicle Recovery: In case your vehicle is stolen, Blue Link allows you to track and disable it remotely.
Geo-Fencing: Set boundaries for your EV and receive notifications when the vehicle enters or exits these areas.

As Hyundai continues to expand its electric vehicle lineup, the Bluelink app remains an essential tool for owners.

7. FordPass

FordPass offers a comprehensive solution for users of Ford’s electric and hybrid vehicles. Essential features include:

Remote Start and Stop: Control your vehicle’s charging and climate settings from anywhere.
Find Charging Stations: Access a built-in map of charging stations and their real-time availability.
Vehicle Health Alerts: Stay informed on your vehicle’s performance, including tire pressure and battery levels.
Pay for Charging: Simplify payment processes with integrated payment options for charging sessions.
FordPass Rewards: Earn points on charging sessions and vehicle services, redeemable for future discounts.

The FordPass app perfectly combines functionality with rewards, making it a favorite among Ford electric vehicle drivers.

8. A Better Routeplanner (ABRP)

ABRP is tailored specifically for electric vehicle users, providing invaluable trip-planning services. Key features include:

Route Optimization: Find the most efficient route based on charging locations, driving habits, and weather conditions.
Multi-Stop Routing: Plan trips with multiple charging stops, optimizing for energy efficiency.
Battery Analytics: Track battery usage and get estimates on remaining range given driving patterns.
Community Data: Benefit from shared experiences and charging data provided by other EV users.
Vehicle Compatibility: Customize routes based on your specific vehicle model’s charging capabilities and efficiency.

ABRP stands out as an indispensable tool for long-distance electric vehicle travel.

9. Greenlots

Greenlots offers charging solutions tailored for electric vehicle drivers, making it another essential app. Notable features include:

Find Charging Stations: Quickly locate Greenlots charging stations and check their availability.
Payment Integration: Pay for charging directly through the app for a seamless experience.
Real-Time Updates: Receive real-time charging session status to enhance your planning.
Smart Charging: Schedule and manage charging sessions according to peak and off-peak electricity rates.
Easy Account Management: Manage your charging history and billing with ease directly in the app.

With its emphasis on smart charging, the Greenlots app enhances electric vehicle ownership experiences.

10. Electrify America

Electrify America provides access to its extensive network of high-speed charging stations across the United States. Key app features include:

Charging Station Locator: Easily find Electrify America charging stations and see their real-time availability.
Session Management: Start and manage charging sessions remotely from your smartphone.
Payment Processing: Pay for charging sessions through the app, streamlining the payment process.
Session History and Tracking: Review your charging history for easier budget management and energy optimization.
Promotions and Discounts: Stay informed about promotional offers and membership benefits.

By focusing on accessibility and convenience, the Electrify America app plays an integral role in the electric vehicle ecosystem.

11. EVTrip Planner

The EVTrip Planner app is beneficial for electric vehicle users who want to plan their trips smartly. Key functionalities include:

Route Planning: Input starting and ending locations to generate the most efficient route, considering charging needs.
Customization Options: Tailor your preferences based on your vehicle model, driving range, and travel speed.
Multiple Routing Options: Explore various routes that include different charging stations and stop durations.
Travel Time Estimation: Get realistic estimates on total travel time, factoring in charging stops.
Save Favorites: Bookmark preferred routes for easy access on future trips.

The EVTrip Planner is a fantastic tool for taking the stress out of long journeys in an electric vehicle.

12. Waze

Waze is not exclusively an electric vehicle app, but it’s invaluable for EV drivers. Its unique offerings include:

Real-Time Traffic Updates: Access live traffic reports, helping you avoid congested areas.
Community Reports: Benefit from real-time updates shared by other drivers regarding road conditions, accidents, and police traps.
Routing Alternatives: Get alternative route recommendations based on current traffic conditions.
Charging Station Locations: Easily find nearby charging stations reported by users.
Integrated Navigation: Use its robust navigation features to streamline your journey, ensuring you arrive with ample charge.

Waze enhances the driving experience by making navigation smarter and more efficient for electric vehicle owners.

13. Ovo Energy

For those who want to optimize charging at home, Ovo Energy offers tools to help manage energy consumption. Key features include:

Smart Charging Management: Schedule the timing of your EV charging to take advantage of cheaper electricity rates.
Energy Consumption Tracking: Monitor electricity usage and get insights into your energy habits.
Green Energy Options: Choose green energy plans that utilize renewable sources for charging your vehicle.
Home Automation Integration: Integrate with smart home devices for comprehensive energy management.
Cost Analysis: Review costs associated with EV charging to maintain budget control.

By integrating energy efficiency and vehicle management, Ovo Energy is perfect for eco-conscious electric vehicle owners.

14. Electric Vehicle Simulator

For those looking to evaluate the efficiency of different driving styles, the Electric Vehicle Simulator app offers simulation features that can be particularly helpful. Key functionalities include:

Driving Behavior Insights: Analyze how driving styles can affect battery consumption and vehicle range.
Cost Analysis Tools: Estimate costs of trips based on driving conditions and charging needs.
Range Predictions: Simulate how varying weather conditions and driving patterns may impact your EV’s range.
Maintenance Monitoring: Understand the maintenance needs based on usage patterns.
Long-Term Planning: Develop long-term strategies for energy savings based on simulated data.

Incorporating this app will enhance awareness and help make smarter driving decisions.

15. EVConnect

Known for its ease of use, EVConnect is another charging network app that adds value to your EV ownership experience by offering the following features:

Locate Charging Stations: Search for EVConnect charging stations and check availability.
Charging Session Control: Start charging sessions remotely and monitor progress.
Payment Features: Handle payments simply through the app without the need for RFID cards.
Usage Analytics: Review charging behavior and costs to optimize usage over time.
Community Features: Engage with other users and share experiences to learn more about the charging network.

For seamless network access, EVConnect is a valuable addition to any EV driver’s toolkit.

Conclusion

The integration of technology into the ownership of electric vehicles provides substantial benefits in terms of control, convenience, and efficiency. The apps mentioned above ensure that EV drivers can monitor their vehicles, manage charging, and optimize their driving habits effectively. It’s crucial for electric vehicle owners to explore these tools to enhance their overall driving experience.