Kia Motors (UK) has launched an integrated public charging service, giving drivers of its EVs the opportunity to use to more than 13,900 charge points across the UK.
The KiaCharge service will give its battery electric vehicle (BEV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) customers access to about 68% of the public charging network from a single account.
Several major charging networks, including BP Pulse, Pod Point, IONITY, Source London, Chargepoint, NewMotion, Char-gy, and ESB, as well as certain regional services, are available as part of the service.
The manufacturer plans to further expand KiaCharge coverage throughout 2021.
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 in urban hubs and along major travel arteries, providing charging speeds above 50kW.
Created in partnership with Digital Charging Solutions (DCS), the service also enables zero-emission continental travel. Thanks to eRoaming, drivers can 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. Instead of numerous individual transactions, payments are made via a single itemised monthly invoice.
Paul Philpott, President & CEO of Kia Motors (UK), 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.”