Octopus Energy has launched Octopus Charge, a free mobile application designed to give electric vehicle drivers access to more than 211,000 public chargers across North America through a single platform.
The iOS and Android app allows users to find charging stations, start charging sessions and make payments across participating networks. Octopus Charge currently lists 24 partner networks, including ChargePoint, AppleGreen Electric, EVgo, Blink, bp pulse, Shell Recharge, FLO, EV Connect, Circle K, Circuit Électrique and FPL EVolution.
Single Platform for Multiple Charging Networks
Octopus Charge allows drivers to search for chargers by location or ZIP code and filter results based on charging speed, connector type and network.
The application also provides information on charger availability, charging speeds, compatibility and pricing. Nearby amenities are displayed alongside charging locations, while an EV-specific route planner is included for trip planning.
Octopus said drivers can join the service without paying a membership fee. The company also said it passes through each participating charging network’s price without adding a markup to the per-kilowatt-hour charging cost.
Octopus Expands North American Charging Services
The launch gives Octopus Energy a presence in North America’s public charging market, where drivers can encounter multiple charging networks and separate account requirements.
Nick Chaset, CEO of Octopus Energy US, said the company aims to simplify access to public charging by consolidating different networks into one service.
“Drivers shouldn’t have to juggle multiple apps and accounts just to charge their cars,” said Nick Chaset, CEO of Octopus Energy US.
Chaset said the service is intended to make public charging more accessible while reducing one of the practical barriers associated with EV use.
North American Platform Follows Electroverse
Octopus Charge is the North American counterpart to Octopus Electroverse, the company’s public charging platform in the United Kingdom and Europe.
Electroverse was launched in 2020 and provides access to more than 1 million public charging points across more than 40 countries through a single app and account.
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Octopus Charge currently has a smaller network footprint, but its access to more than 211,000 chargers provides coverage across a range of major charging operators in the United States and Canada.
The company can expand the platform by adding further charging networks as it develops its North American operations.
