EV Charging Infrastructure will undergo a complete transformation with the introduction of electric mobility services. Arrival of eMSP will mean EV drivers to have access to wider network of charging stations, to have better pricing options for charging services, access to many more value added services. eMSP will also help Charge Point Operators in improving utilization of their charging infrastructure and therefore better return of their investments.
eMSP provides details of Charge Point Operators or CPOs and charging stations in the eMSP’s network to EV drivers and also facilitate seamless roaming. It may not be wrong to say, while CPOs maintain the hardware necessary for charging, eMSPs connect them to the drivers.
Promises of eMSP
The immense network of charging stations integrated with eMSP provides numerous charging station options to the drivers. eMSPs are responsible for helping drivers navigate to the nearest charging station, giving roaming access, payments, and invoicing. Often done through mobile applications or card services, this helps reduce range anxiety, the fear of not finding a nearby charging station. In addition, cards or software applications ease billing and transactions, assisting the drivers to a large extent. eMSPs also offer subscription services in addition to singular payment for power purchased.
Billing cycles are essential parts of EV charging. Several pricing techniques, such as prepaid, post-paid, subscription plans, and installment-based payments, are offered to the drivers through eMSPs. In addition, eMSPs also provide value-added services like roadside assistance and personalized charging station recommendations. They are also exploring real-time invoicing options to create a hassle-free charging experience. Drivers have several options to choose from with beneficial services incorporated into a single card or application.
Role of eMSP in EV surge
The limited number of charging stations creates discomfort in charging for several EV users. The expected surge in EVs creates the demand for a feasible network that assists drivers in navigating charging. eMSPs can equip drivers with a vast network of charging stations by establishing roaming agreements. The roaming agreements are often with a single charge point operator or a roaming hub. They enable access to the charge stations out of the eMSP network without paying for multiple subscriptions. Drivers get access to charging stations at pre-determined rates or following the subscription plan, reducing prices compared to one-time charging. An extra charge, called roaming charge, is levied on the users additionally. eMSPs also establish an error-free taxing and pricing process, ensuring transparency to the drivers.
The benefits eMSPs promise
eMSPs provide users with charging stations data, such as availability and type of chargers, and the operating time making recharging easy for EV drivers. By providing charger data, eMSPs can connect users to their right match. Over time, they can give personalized suggestions as well. They can induce self-service techniques provisioning a reserve-ahead service to book a charging slot. eMSPs also aim to ensure frequently updated records of charging station data helping drivers find a suitable charging station quickly. They also promise proper route planning and access to customer service.
How can eMSPs improve their business?
Expanding networks by incubating newer charging stations is the first step for eMSPs. They also need to update constantly and stay relevant to keep business intact. User emphasis on the type of charge used and source of energy has risen consistently. Providing users with data regarding the source of power makes it more personalized and can influence their decisions.
Incubating driver analytics for data on charging behavior, vehicles and, recharging patterns helps establish newer growth strategies. eMSPs can also provide a uniform service such as cards to avail shopping discounts and cheaper charging rates. Other assistive features can be included with the card to increase customer loyalty. Analyzing payments and feedback enhances the service further. Implementing chat services to assist customers to reach out to desired stations in the eMSP network makes communication effective and personal, resolving the drivers’ doubts swiftly.
Summary
An eMSP is an enabler for charging stations, providing EV drivers access to their network. It promises several benefits in the form of reliable, real-time charging station data and availability. eMSPs may include different payment techniques like post-paid, prepaid, etc. They often function through mobile applications, making the process easy and convenient. They can also expand the network reach and connect to provide roaming services. Other facilities, such as enabling energy source data, card service, feasible payment facility, real-time invoicing, and customer charging pattern analysis, improve the charging experience. The wide variety of facilities included in eMSPs can help make the charging process hassle-free and make the customer experience exceptionally good. eM
