1. ev.energy
- Smart scheduling: Automatically adjusts charging based on energy prices and emissions.
- Solar integration: Option to charge using home solar when connected (useful before/after trips).
- Cost tracking: Monitors spending per session.
2. NeoCharge App
- Time-of-use optimization: Synchronizes with utility plans to charge during off-peak hours, even on home charging before departure.
- Custom rate plans: Syncs exact utility rates (e.g., Southern California Edison) for hyper-local savings.
- Set-and-forget scheduling: Prioritizes low-cost periods while ensuring the car is ready by your departure time.
3. ChargePoint
- Real-time pricing: Shows cost-per-session at public stations en route.
- Route planning: Integrates charging stops with cost estimates.
- Network access: 300,000+ charging points globally.
4. Ampcontrol
- Spot pricing avoidance: Avoids charging during peak grid demand periods, which often correlate with high public charging costs.
- Day-ahead planning: Optimizes charging schedules based on forecasted energy prices.
- Case studies: Demonstrated 65% energy cost reduction for fleets using dynamic pricing strategies.
Cost-Saving Road Trip Strategies
- Pre-charge at home during off-peak hours using NeoCharge/ev.energy before departure.
- Use public chargers during midday (solar surplus) or late-night periods when demand charges drop.
- Avoid DC fast charging unless necessary, as per-minute fees or high kW rates often apply.
Note: Most optimization tools focus on home charging, so combine them with real-time public pricing data from apps like ChargePoint for full trip optimization.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/are-there-any-apps-or-tools-that-can-help-optimize-ev-charging-costs-on-a-road-trip/
