Support from the Green Economy Fund/ScottishPower Energy Networks, enabled the Bo’ness-based developers to produce the app for Android devices.
Enabling drivers to see nearby chargers in realtime, it is anticipated that Discovery mode (pictured below) will bring about a transformational shift in the reliability of chargepoint information available while on-the-road.
The example above shows the current location with the nearest chargers indicated.
For ease of use, logos indicate the operator (CPO) of displayed chargers. Live availability is provided by standardised colour coding: Green, available; Blue, in use; Red (not shown), offline. Further information on chargepoints (e.g. pricing) is provided by tapping on the logo.
“We are hugely excited to make Discovery mode available to EV drivers. For too long, the availability of charger information has been poor and often out of date just when drivers need it most – for example, during longer journeys or when needing a quick top-up away from home.
“Finally, by showing live rapid chargers on an interactive map, we can give drivers the confidence they need that charging will be successful,” says Dr Michael Gill, Head of Communications & Strategy for WattsUp.
“Working in partnership with Charge Point Operators (CPOs), we are able to draw upon the most comprehensive and accurate database of rapid chargers in the UK for the benefit of EV drivers.
“This information is always kept up-to-date in the app. Additionally, our live data feeds show the current status of chargepoints and so indicating to drivers if they will be able to charge or whether the chargepoint is in use. This is exactly what has been needed to encourage the uptake of electric vehicles by the mass market.”
Product Availability
Discovery mode is available today for Android devices via an in-app subscription with an Apple/iOS version also due for release shortly.
Priced at 99p/month, users will be able to take advantage of a three-day trial period to confirm that the new feature meets their needs. Discovery mode is also offered in markets outside the UK and can be purchased in the local currency according to the exchange rate at time of order placement.
WattsUp is (and remains) free to download from the Google Play Store/iOS App Store. Sanctus Media Ltd. confirm that there will be no changes to the availability of pre- existing functionality for users.
Positive customer impact
Many drivers have already benefitted from using the WattsUp app. Initially released for Apple devices in 2018, support from the Green Economy Fund/ScottishPower Energy Networks enabled the developers to produce the app for Android devices.
Both versions have seen significant uptake within the EV community and have helped drivers navigate the UK’s rapidly expanding network of electric vehicle rapid charge points.
Sanctus Media expects high demand for Discovery mode as few other solutions exist on the market for reliable, easy to use, live sources of chargepoint information.
Find out more: www.wattsup.app
