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Volvo Cars, in partnership with Kaluza, has introduced a world-first feature allowing Volvo electric vehicle (EV) drivers to directly enroll in a smart charging plan within their vehicle app. This innovative service provides Volvo EV owners with a seamless and integrated way to manage their charging experience without needing additional apps.
Key Highlights:
- Volvo drivers can now sign up for OVO’s Charge Anytime plan, charging their cars at any time for just 7p/kWh.
- Kaluza’s software automatically shifts charging to more affordable and eco-friendly times, optimizing both cost and carbon footprint.
- Volvo drivers will also receive 2,700 miles of free EV charging for enrolling.
- New research from OVO shows that 56% of UK drivers see lower running costs as the main incentive for switching to EVs.
Nicole Melillo Shaw, Managing Director of Volvo Car UK, stated, “With this new partnership with OVO and Kaluza, we’re helping our customers maximize the benefits of electric car ownership, both in terms of their day-to-day running costs and by reducing their energy carbon footprint. The economic and environmental benefits of this initiative will add to the appeal of our award-winning models and encourage more people to make the move to EV ownership.”
The launch comes as consumer research shows that affordability is a key driver in the decision to transition to electric vehicles. Over half of the UK population views lower running costs as a critical motivator, while government incentives remain a significant factor for 40% of respondents. Additionally, three in four drivers indicated they would be more likely to purchase an EV if they had access to a charging tariff that automatically charged their vehicle at the lowest possible rates.
With Kaluza as a core technology partner, Volvo provides a branded, personalized experience for users directly in their app. This industry-first integration means that Volvo can control the user interface, ensuring the smart charging process aligns with their standards and customer expectations. Customers can now utilize smart charging without downloading additional apps, which simplifies the overall experience and encourages broader adoption.
This collaboration between Volvo, Kaluza, and OVO illustrates the potential at the intersection of energy and mobility. By allowing users to sign up directly in their automaker app, Kaluza aims to reduce ownership costs and foster the adoption of smart charging solutions that support decarbonization efforts.
Future innovations are already in the pipeline, including the development of bi-directional V2X services. These services will not only allow Volvo EV owners to charge more cost-effectively but also reward drivers for exporting surplus energy back to their homes and supporting grid stability.
Neel Gulhar, Chief Product Officer at Kaluza, commented, “By 2030, 84% of auto sector revenue growth is expected to come from disruptive new offerings such as shared mobility, connectivity, and electrification. Integrations like this are exactly what automakers and energy retailers need to put customers at the center of the energy transition and ensure nobody gets left behind. We’re proud to partner with the world’s largest auto brands and forward-thinking utilities to accelerate the adoption of EVs within a smarter, greener energy system.”
Mat Moakes, Chief Commercial Officer at OVO, added, “Together with Volvo Cars and Kaluza, we’re committed to accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles and rewarding customers for making the switch. This is another way we are helping our customers cut costs and carbon for a greener future.”
About Kaluza
Kaluza is an energy software company driving the future of energy management. Its technology includes advanced billing systems, smart EV charging, and customer engagement tools. Kaluza’s cloud platform helps energy suppliers enhance operational efficiency and embrace low-carbon innovations.
About Volvo Car Group
Founded in 1927, Volvo Cars has established itself as a leading global car brand known for its commitment to sustainability and safety. Volvo aims to become a fully electric car manufacturer by 2040, with net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.
About OVO
Established in 2009, OVO aims to make energy greener and more affordable. OVO supports millions of customers with home energy solutions, EV charging, and sustainability initiatives. It is working toward net-zero emissions by 2035 as part of its comprehensive sustainability plan.
Polling Information
Research was conducted by Strand Partners, surveying 1,013 UK residents. The survey was representative by age, gender, and region, reflecting public views on EV adoption and charging incentives.
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