Mobile app design for EV cars 🔋
an intuitive platform designed to simplify the process of finding and using electric vehicle charging stations. By connecting drivers with a comprehensive network of reliable, accessible, and affordable charging points, the app offers a seamless, map-based experience. Users can easily locate charging stations, check real-time availability, and access features like cost comparisons, station reviews, and navigation tools to enhance their charging journey.
starting thoughts... ✨
Turning a personal challenge into a solution for the masses
As a new EV driver, I quickly saw how finding and using charging stations can be frustrating with unavailable chargers, unclear prices, and no real-time updates. This inspired me to create a simple, user-friendly solution that makes charging easy and reliable for every EV driver.
solution 📍
Make the journey effortless and accessible
During my research, I realized the challenge isn’t just finding charging stations but creating a stress-free experience. A key focus is reducing “range anxiety” — the fear of running out of battery. By ensuring reliable and accessible charging options, I aim to make charging seamless and reassuring for every EV driver.
Real-Time Station Finder
My app offers a real-time map to help you locate nearby charging stations. With up-to-date information on availability, connector types, and charging speeds, you can quickly find the best option for your needs. Whether you're at home or on the road, this feature ensures a smooth and reliable charging experience.
Smart Route Planner
Planning a trip? The smart route planner calculates the most efficient path, including stops for charging based on your battery range and travel time. Integrated with navigation tools like Google Maps or Waze, it helps you avoid unnecessary detours and ensures a stress-free journey.
Remote Charging Management
Manage your charging sessions remotely with ease. Start, stop, and monitor your charging progress directly from the app, while receiving notifications when the session is complete or if issues arise. This feature saves time and keeps you in control, wherever you are.
Charging History&Insights
Track your charging habits with detailed insights into past sessions, including location, cost, and duration. Monthly reports help you analyze energy consumption and optimize your expenses, making your electric vehicle journey even more efficient and cost-effective.
Manage Your EV
The profile page gives users a clear overview of their vehicle and charging activity. It shows key details like vehicle info, reward points, battery health and level, and charging history. This central hub helps users track and manage their EV easily and stay informed about their energy use.
Discover 🔎
primary research
The majority of respondents (75%) stated that they prefer charging their vehicles at home due to convenience and lower costs. Those without access to home chargers rely on public charging stations, primarily out of necessity, while on the go, or as part of their daily routine. However, most respondents reported using public charging stations infrequently (once a month or less), indicating a need to increase the appeal and usability of public charging infrastructure.
Charging habits are also influenced by the time of day. About 58% of respondents charge their vehicles in the evening, mostly after returning from work. However, this time aligns with peak electricity consumption hours, highlighting the need for greater awareness and incentives for off-peak charging.
Station availability emerged as one of the most critical factors for EV drivers. Respondents expressed frustration with the lack of real-time updates in apps about station availability and estimated charging times. They also identified additional needs, such as the ability to reserve charging spots and clearer information about station costs.
Overall, while users are moderately satisfied with the charging stations themselves, a significant 50% of respondents criticized the quality of customer service provided by charging service operators. They noted the need for improved customer support and better app functionality, including more user-friendly trip planning features and discounted charging plans. Additionally, maintenance issues, such as non-operational stations without notifications, further exacerbate user frustration.
These findings underscore the importance of developing user-centric solutions that combine transparent information, reliable availability, and enhanced customer support to deliver a seamless and stress-free charging experience for EV drivers.
Key Features Derived from Findings
1. Dedicated Customer Support Button - Improved customer service accessible via a dedicated in-app button for quick assistance.
1. Dedicated Customer Support Button - Improved customer service accessible via a dedicated in-app button for quick assistance.
2. Reserved Charging Slot - Option to reserve a charging station 10 minutes in advance for a small fee.
3. Dynamic Pricing - Charging rates adjusted based on peak and off-peak hours to encourage optimal usage.
4. User Reviews and Ratings - A platform for users to rate and review stations, sharing valuable insights with the community.
5. Station Locator and Navigation - Seamless station discovery and integration with navigation apps for convenience.
6. Charging Completion Notification - Real-time alerts to notify users when charging is complete.
7. Charging Details Page - A comprehensive page summarizing session details, including costs, energy usage, and time.
EMPATHIZE 🔦
Understanding users' needs and pain points
User Persona & Journey Map
Based on the personas I created, I identified distinct user groups with unique needs and challenges when accessing electric vehicle charging stations. These personas guided me in developing tailored solutions and features to address their specific pain points and improve the overall charging experience.
Ideation 💡
flow & Design Exploration
At the start of my design process, I focus on mapping out the user journey to understand their interactions and key requirements. From there, I transition into design exploration, testing different sketches, visual styles, and creative concepts to bring the vision to life.
At the start of my design process, I focus on mapping out the user journey to understand their interactions and key requirements. From there, I transition into design exploration, testing different sketches, visual styles, and creative concepts to bring the vision to life.
PROTOTYPE 📐
Lo-Fi Wireframing
I produced wireframes for multiple design variations for testing and feedback.
Visual Style
I designed a visual identity that fits the app’s purpose and users’ needs. The energetic orange represents movement and innovation in EV charging, balanced by a warm white background for a clean, modern, and comfortable feel. This combination improves usability and makes the app stand out.
high fidelity design
