What is EV roaming?

The world of EVs can be full of jargon and buzzwords such as ICE’ing and State of Charge. One such term that gets thrown around a lot is ‘roaming’ – but what does that actually mean? You've probably heard the term "roaming" before in the context of phone plans, where it refers to using your phone on different networks while traveling. Well, in the world of EV charging, roaming has a similar concept. It's all about the freedom to charge your electric vehicle at different charging stations, regardless of the charging network, using a single method of authentication or payment. Just like how mobile phone users can make calls or access the internet while roaming on different networks, EV roaming enables drivers to charge their vehicles at different charging networks using a single RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) card or app. It's like having a universal charging passport for your electric adventure.

EV roaming offers several benefits to EV drivers. Here's why:

Seamless Charging Experience:

EV roaming simplifies the charging process by eliminating the need for multiple RFID cards or apps. Instead, drivers can use a single card or app across various charging networks, reducing the hassle of managing different accounts and payment methods.

Nationwide Accessibility:

Roaming services enhance the accessibility of EV charging infrastructure, allowing drivers to find and utilise charging points throughout the country. This expanded network ensures that drivers can embark on longer journeys with confidence, knowing they can recharge their vehicles at various locations.

Flexibility for Those Driving for Work:

For individuals who drive for work purposes, EV roaming provides the flexibility to charge their vehicles at different locations, depending on their itinerary. This eliminates the need for employers or fleet managers to issue multiple charging cards, simplifying administration and ensuring drivers have the freedom to recharge wherever they need to.

Consolidated Expenses:

Whether you're a work driver seeking accurate reimbursement or a non-work driver aiming to track your charging costs efficiently, roaming simplifies the process by consolidating all your charging expenses into a single, comprehensive record.

In the UK, several companies offer EV roaming services, making it convenient for drivers to charge their vehicles across different networks. At Osprey, it is our mission to make charging as simple and worry-free as possible. That is why we partner with all major roaming networks. Let's take a closer look at a few key roaming partners:

Allstar One Electric:

Designed for businesses, Allstar's One Electric network provides access to a vast network of charging points throughout the UK. With a single RFID card or app, drivers can charge their vehicles at various participating charging stations, making it a convenient choice for those seeking nationwide coverage.

Octopus Electroverse:

Octopus Electroverse offers a seamless roaming experience tied into your home energy billing. With a range of partner charging networks, users can access charging points across the country using a single app, ensuring a hassle-free charging experience. The Electroverse also covers continental Europe, making it easier than ever before to explore in your EV.

Shell Recharge:

Shell Recharge is another major EV roaming service, allowing drivers to charge at both Shell-branded charging stations as well as partner networks, including Osprey. With the Shell Recharge app or RFID card, EV drivers can access charging points across the UK, providing convenience and flexibility.

Paua:

Paua has developed the UK's largest roaming network for businesses. The Paua electric fuel card solution delivers nationwide coverage with 37,000 (Sept 2023) EV connectors to the driver's mobile app with real-time data. A simple Paua card enables a tap-and-charge experience with live updates in the fleet manager's dashboard. 50% of all UK charge point connectors are available on Paua. Paua's technology also powers solutions for cinchCharge, elmoCharge, mooveCharge and Motability Go Charge as well as some of the largest commercial fleets in the country. 

At Osprey we understand the importance of choice and ease of use for drivers. While we work with major roaming suppliers to ensure compatibility and accessibility, we also go a step further by accepting contactless bank cards at every charge point. This means you can simply tap your contactless bank card to initiate a charge, providing an additional level of convenience and flexibility.

EV roaming is revolutionising the way electric vehicle drivers charge their cars. With the convenience of a single RFID card or app, drivers can access charging points across various networks and even countries, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free charging experience. As we race towards an electric future, it is critical that we provide both convenience and choice to cater to the diverse needs of EV drivers. As electric fleets continue to grow, the evolution of EV roaming will play a vital role in supporting the expanding charging infrastructure and enhancing the overall driving experience.