EVgo Inc., one of the leading public fast-charging networks for electric vehicles in the United States, has partnered with Amazon to introduce an Alexa-enabled charging experience for electric vehicle (EV) drivers. Motorists with Alexa-integrated vehicles or accessories like Echo Auto can now utilize voice commands to locate and navigate to the closest EV charging stations.
Why It Matters
This development aims to enhance the customer experience by making finding a charging station more convenient and intuitive. With increasing numbers of consumers switching to electric vehicles, easy access to charging stations is crucial for widespread EV adoption. The integration also underlines EVgo’s continued focus on creating a user-centered charging experience, as demonstrated by their earlier support for Amazon’s voice-initiated EV driver experience revealed at CES 2023.
Key Points
- The service uses PlugShare™, a leading global EV community and part of the EVgo family, to provide an extensive database of public charging stations.
- A single voice command, such as “Alexa, find EV charging stations near me,” will direct drivers to the nearest station.
- Alexa will offer real-time data on station availability, plug type, and charging speed.
- The system also informs the driver about the estimated time and distance to the charging station.
- Initial vehicle models supported include the Nissan ARIYA, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and F-150 Lightning.
Bottom Line
As the first charging network to integrate Alexa, EVgo is committed to leveraging innovative technologies to enhance the customer experience. This partnership with Amazon makes EV charging more accessible and user-friendly, reinforcing EVgo’s position as a leader in customer-centric charging solutions. The collaboration also aligns with Amazon’s broader strategy of incorporating voice and multi-modal experiences into daily life, making tasks easier and more convenient for the consumer. Finally, the joint initiative complements EVgo’s recent partnership with Audible, another Amazon subsidiary, offering a two-month free trial of Audible Premium Plus to EVgo and PlugShare users.
