Two of the largest charging networks are plugging in together. FLO and Chargepoint are making it easier for driver to charge their EVs without needing a handful of apps, dongles and accounts to do it.
With multiple charge networks, plugging in on the go can be a challenge. EV drivers sometimes use multiple apps just to find a nearby charge station, then need to have set up accounts with all of those apps to pay to charge. Even free charging often needs an account setup.
FLO and ChargePoint have just announced what they're calling the first arrangement of its kind in North America: the ability to use each other's networks as part of a roaming agreement. It's like cell tower roaming, but for your electric vehicle.
"As electric mobility continues to gain traction, it is essential that industry leaders work together to optimize the charging experience for the benefit of all EV drivers and stakeholders," said FLO President and CEO Louis Tremblay.
ChargePoint CEO Pasquale Romano said that "we appreciate the opportunity to partner with FLO and invite other networks to participate in similar initiatives that support our philosophy of helping to get every driver behind the wheel of an EV. These experiences are good for EV drivers and simultaneously benefit station owners by increasing utilization of charging spots and opening up opportunities for businesses of all kinds to participate in the new fueling network."
The roaming agreement is in place and operational now through the FLO and ChargePoint mobile apps. Use your existing app to find stations in both networks and then start the charging session. The two aren't adding extra fees for the service.
FLO offers the largest charging network in Canada. ChargePoint offers one of the largest networks in the US as well as services in Canada. At launch, the combined roaming network will have 33,000 publicly available charging stations in the US and Canada.
