Plugsurfing has integrated its in-car payment solution, Drive API with Parkopedia’s EV charging service, the companies have announced.
In a statement, they said the deal means drivers can locate, start, and pay for charging at over 500,000 charge points across Europe and the UK, using verified Parkopedia data.
With Parkopedia’s EV service “Park and Charge”, charging sessions can also be started and paid for directly from the car’s dashboard through using automotive-grade data and an in-car commerce functionality integrated into vehicle infotainment systems.
The new partnership combines Parkopedia’s expertise in connected car services and in-car payments with one of Europe’s leading emobility service providers (EMP) to address the main pain points experienced by EV drivers.
Plugsurfing’s Drive API enables Parkopedia to play an orchestration role, combining Plugsurfing’s network and EV charging services with broader in-car payment services, which covers vehicle-centric solutions such as parking, through Parkopedia’s Single Sign-on Payment Platform. This leverages the expertise of both companies and gives carmakers and drivers a seamless end-to-end public charging solution across Europe.
Duncan Licence, Chief Product Officer at Parkopedia, said: “This partnership enables automakers to benefit from the valuable combination of a substantial charging network, extensive parking and charging data and end-to-end in-car payment services.”
Will Gill, Chief Product and Technology Officer at Plugsurfing, added: “We built Drive API so that our partners can create tailored charging solutions for their customers. Drivers don’t have to leave the car interface they know and love and can enjoy all the benefits of Plugsurfing’s network and service. Our new partnership with Parkopedia will bring even more convenience to drivers with this integrated solution since EV drivers charge where they park.”
