OpConnect, LLC, a provider of electric vehicle (EV) charging station technology, has rolled out its smartphone payment technology for OpConnect network EV charging stations.
Now, EV drivers can use the OpConnect iPhone (News - Alert) app, or other smartphone scanners to access free stations or to pay for a charging session at stations that require payment.
According to company officials, mobile payments are just one of many payment options available to OpConnect network members and non-members.
Unlike many competitors' networks that restrict access of charging stations to members, officials said the OpConnect stations can be accessed in a variety of ways including using an E-mail address, a credit card, an OpConnect Network card, the Wright Express Fleet card, and now, a smartphone.
"A complaint we often hear in our industry is that drivers have to carry a RFID device or a card to access certain stations. OpConnect has always allowed any EV driver access to our stations without the need to pre-register or call a phone number,” said Dexter Turner, CEO, OpConnect.
“Now we're making it even easier for drivers to use OpConnect network stations with their smartphones. Our strength is our software and systems integration capability, including mobile technologies. This is another example of how we're listening to the market and continually innovating to give EV drivers what they want," said Turner.
Recently, OpConnect announced the installation of its smart EV charging system at Bridgeport Village in Tigard, Oregon.
The two charging stations feature high-resolution touch screens with graphical instructions and help videos as well as a unique quad port design that lets up to eight EVs charge simultaneously. The charging stations are powered by OpConnect’s EV Charging Network and are available for use to any Bridgeport Village shopper.
Edited by Stefania Viscusi