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Pricing Transparency

Pricing Transparency

One of the key challenges in the ecosystem is the lack of consistent and transparent pricing for EV charging. Users often struggle to determine the exact cost of a session, which can vary depending on the operator, CEME, and charging conditions. But significant advancements have been made to address this issue. The current model provides multiple ways for users to access and understand the costs associated with their charging sessions.

How Pricing is Currently Handled

  1. Ad-Hoc Pricing at the Station:
    Operators have the option to implement real-time pricing directly on the charging station's display or through external terminals like Multibanco or QR codes. This allows users to know the exact cost before initiating a charging session, during and in the end.

  2. Integration with OCPI Protocol:
    The Mobi.E backend supports the Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI), enabling CEMEs and OPCs to share accurate pricing data in real-time. Users can access this information via mobile applications, websites, or physical displays on charging stations.

  3. Post-Paid and Pre-Paid Models:
    For users opting for pre-paid or post-paid cards, the pricing is detailed in the invoice or transaction history provided by the CEME. This includes a breakdown of CEME fees, OPC fees, and applicable taxes.

  4. Partnership Solutions:
    Partnerships, such as those between Miio and Power Dot, already demonstrate how operators and CEMEs can enhance transparency by displaying session costs in their apps and at charging points, with the Ad-Hoc and TPA pricing model.

  5. Real-Time Monitoring and Cost Simulation with Applications

Key Features of Real-Time Applications

  1. Real-Time Session Monitoring:

Users can track their ongoing charging sessions in real time, including the amount of energy charged, the session duration, and the cost accumulated up to that point.

  1. Cost Simulation:

Before starting a charging session, users can simulate the estimated cost based on the selected charging station, energy rates, and their vehicle's requirements. This feature helps users plan their expenses and choose the most cost-effective options.

  1. Session Cost Transparency:

During and at the end of the session, the application displays the final cost, including a detailed breakdown of:

  • CEME fees.
  • OPC fees.
  • Taxes.

This transparency ensures users are fully informed about the total cost of their charging sessions.

  1. Automated Invoicing:

  2. Pre-Payment: For users opting for a pre-paid model, the session cost is deducted automatically from their balance at the end of the session.

  3. Post-Payment: In cases where the user chooses a post-paid model, the invoice is generated automatically and included in their regular invoicing period as defined by the user.

Advantages of Using Real-Time Applications

  • Convenience: Real-time tracking and simulation make charging sessions easier to manage and predict.
  • Transparency: Provides users with detailed and accurate cost breakdowns, building trust and improving the user experience.
  • Flexibility: Supports multiple payment methods, including pre-paid and post-paid options, tailored to user preferences.
  • Efficiency: Automates invoicing, saving time and reducing the likelihood of billing errors.