It depends on your needs. But first, let us explain the difference between Plug & Charge and Autocharge, offered by some EV charging apps in India. Both methods help you charge at public charging stations, but they work quite differently.
Let’s take a noodle analogy to break it down. Plug & Charge is like preparing noodles your way—adjusting the ingredients to suit your taste. On the other hand, Autocharge is like grabbing a pack of Maggi and cooking it in two minutes—fast, hassle-free, and ready to go. In this analogy, customising your dish is like setting charging parameters, while the instant option mirrors Autocharge’s simplicity.
What’s the Difference?
Plug & Charge
This is the most common method across charging station networks. With Plug & Charge, you:
- Scan the barcode at the charging station.
- Choose how much to charge (by money, units, time, or battery percentage).
- Connect the charging gun.
- Initiate your charging session.
Advantages:
- Full control over your charging parameters.
- One of the safest methods, as it complies with ISO 15118 standards.
Disadvantages:
- Time-consuming because you need to navigate through the app.
Autocharge
Scan the barcode and download the EVJoints app to find 6,000 EV charging stations across various networks.
Click & download the EVJoints app to find 6,000 charging stations.
Autocharge takes convenience to the next level. Just plug in the charging gun, and the charger recognizes your EV using its MAC address. Charging starts automatically. You can monitor and stop the session anytime through the app.
Advantages:
- Quick and intuitive—no manual intervention.
Disadvantages:
- Lacks flexibility—you can’t set parameters like time, cost, or units.
So, Which Method Is Better?
- Plug & Charge: If you want control over your charging session—like specifying cost, units, or time—this method is better.
- Autocharge: If you prioritize convenience and speed, and a compatible station is nearby, Autocharge is ideal.
Conclusion
Some apps, like Statiq, require you to register your car for Autocharge, while others, like Zeon Charging, don’t. Both charging methods have their strengths: one offers customisation, and the other, an intuitive experience.
Not all Charging Point Operators (CPOs) support Autocharge yet, but notable ones like ChargeZone, Zeon Charging, and Statiq do. The EV sector continues to evolve, promising exciting technologies in the years ahead. Let’s accelerate EV adoption together!
