Thursday, November 21, 2024
Infrastructure and TechnologyLatestNewsVehicle manufacturers

Kia launches integrated charging service

Kia Motors has unveiled KiaCharge, a UK-wide integrated public charging service – designed to give drivers easier access to public vehicle charging.

From launch, KiaCharge provides more comprehensive access to the UK public charging network with owners accessing more than 13,900 points across the UK – around 68% of the entire network – from one account.

The service gives access to BP pulse, Pod Point, IONITY, Source London, Chargepoint, NewMotion, Char-gy, and ESB networks. Several other networks, including certain regional services, are also available.

There are plans to further expand KiaCharge coverage throughout 2021, the manufacturer confirmed. Being able to access these networks via a single platform negates the need for drivers to sign up to separate accounts with multiple charging point operators.

The service provides access to more than 1,300 ‘rapid’ connections, providing charging speeds above 50kW. Located in urban areas and major travel routes, the service has been created in partnership with Digital Charging Solutions (DCS), the service also enables zero-emission continental travel. Drivers can also access more than 178,000 additional charging points across 28 other European countries without the need for additional contracts.

Kia BEV and PHEV owners can access KiaCharge via a smartphone app or radio-frequency identification (RFID) card.

Paul Philpott, president & CEO of Kia Motors (UK) Limited, said: “The availability and suitability of public charge points remains a perceived hurdle for many would-be electric car buyers.

“KiaCharge seeks to remedy this by providing a comprehensive, easy-to-use public charging service for our customers, accessible from a single account. This is a major step for Kia as we look for new ways to make EV ownership a more viable and stress-free option for many more drivers.”

  • image courtesy of Kia Motors (UK)

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