Self- Managed EV Charging Slot System
In a world fueled by technological innovation, I embarked on a journey to redefine the electric vehicle (EV) charging experience. This is the story of how thoughtful design transformed a routine task into a seamless and user-centric adventure.
Unveiling User Insights
The journey began with a deep dive into the lives of EV owners. Through conducting user interviews, I uncovered the pain points and desires that shaped their charging experiences. EV owners yearned for more than just a power source; they sought a harmonious blend of convenience, transparency, and community spirit.
User Profiles
Mainly 4 types of users who use EV charging in public
EV owners with range anxiety
EV owners who plans for long journey
EV owners with low battery
EV owners who charges their EV on a routine basis (mainly 4 wheelers/ heavy duty vehicles to avoid the electric bill slab at home)
Trends in EV Charging
Home Charging:
A majority prefer home charging, with a notable percentage utilizing community stations.
Reservation & Transparency:
Users seek convenient reservation systems and transparency in station availability.
Flexible Payments:
Pay-as-you-go models are preferred, with easy expense tracking.
All-in-One App:
Users express a need for an all-in-one app, streamlining diverse EV charging apps.
Insights from User Interviews & Research
7 out of 12 users prefer to charge at home
Need to know live availability of charging terminals
Congestion at EV station during peak times
Community spaces are mostly used when it comes to range anxiety & while going for long trips
3 out of 12 users prefer subscription, rest everyone like “Pay-as-you go” model of payment
Need to know the availability of the charging points they usually use
Incorrect Info- unsuitable Connector PIN, Whether its fast-charging or not, whether the EV point is working or not
EV station community parking etiquette issues with others
Some stations have restricted access, like hotels, shopping complexes with private parking.
EV owners are forced to spent time on the vehicle in EV stations that do not have any amenities.. users would love to filter & search EV stations with amenities they are looking for
Wireframes
Designing for Convenience
Armed with insights, I crafted an intuitive system where EV owners could effortlessly filter and discover charging stations based on their unique needs. Amenities, access restrictions, and real-time information about connectors became pivotal, ensuring a convenient charging journey.
Tackling Etiquette and Fairness
Variable Pricing: adjusting the cost of charging based on demand and usage patterns.
A fair queuing system that prioritizes users who haven't recently utilized the charging station -This prevents a scenario where a few users monopolize the charging slots
Provide a live status of charging station availability- reduces the likelihood of congestion during peak times.
Inform users about anticipated peak demand times- allows users to plan their charging sessions accordingly, spreading the demand across different time slots.
Crafting the All-in-One Experience
Understanding the desire for simplicity, I conceptualized an all-encompassing app. This wasn't just a tool; it was a companion for the EV revolution. Users could reserve, activate, and pay seamlessly, all within a single, user-friendly interface.
The Global Impact
The project echoed global EV trends – a surge in adoption, a preference for home charging, and a growing demand for a unified app. It wasn’t merely about addressing individual needs; it was about contributing to a global shift towards sustainability.
Conclusion: A Sustainable Tomorrow
As I submit this case study, I envision a future where EV charging isn’t just a task; it’s a conscious choice towards a greener, more sustainable tomorrow. This journey wasn’t just about designing an app; it was about contributing to an EV revolution, one charging session at a time.
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