Electrify America topped all EV charging networks in terms of user experience in a recent study by Accenture owned Umlaut technical services company.
The study was released in conjunction with Charged EVs, reviewed the entire user experience for the largest DC fast charging networks in the US, including app/website usability, charging locations, and the ease of doing a session or getting assistance Skill. Testers note that it’s not an assessment of the experience of EV ownership (no data from test cars recorded) or the viability of long-distance trips.
Testers covered 2,100 miles in six days in September 2021, performing 150 tests at 28 locations (each from seven charging networks) across Michigan, Ohio, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut and Pennsylvania.
Charger Electrify America
Electrify America received the highest overall score thanks to the availability of Plug & Charge, a well-designed app and website, illuminated stations, multiple 350 kw stations available, and an on-demand display of both kw vehicle demand and kw provided by the toll station. However, Electrify America also suffers from high prices, lack of roaming with other networks, and long wait times through the support hotline.
The Tesla Supercharger network was ranked second. This is the first to include it; The authors note that it scores best in toll locations and has the fastest start times at its locations. Umlaut tested locations with the Tesla Model 3 and Ford Mustang Mach-E.
It should be noted that, while the study included the technical performance of the charger, it did not include network uptime or hardware reliability. Reliability varies widely between stations, and is likely a concern for electric car drivers compared to some of the other things highlighted in the study, like free wifi.
Volkswagen ID.4 at Electrify America, Hazel Dell WA
As many users have experienced, there is usually a lack of accountability when the charger fails or doesn’t provide a consistent experience. Automakers are beginning to take some of these concerns into their own hands, with Ford sending “charge angel“directly to troubleshoot charging problems.
As we have shown before, owners are most satisfied with the predictability of Level 2 charging house—Despite setting up home charging it’s not always easy.
Electrify America has a plan double its network by 2025—But it was also Looking for more investment capital to scale up. The network was funded by Volkswagen as part of the automaker’s diesel emissions cheating deal, but VW is said to be procuring Electrify America for other investors to fund the expansion.
