Map Intel, the latest feature of the Tap Electric application, addresses a critical issue in the transition to electric mobility: the lack of standardisation in charging prices.
This tool enables electric vehicle (EV) drivers to make informed decisions about where to charge, thereby avoiding unpleasant surprises on their bills.
“We want them to understand what ‘refuelling’ means in their areas, whether before deciding to purchase a car or while on the go,” explains Nico Spoelstra, Co-Founder and CEO of the company, to Mobility Portal Europe.
The process behind Map Intel is not straightforward.
Spoelstra emphasises that, while information about prices and charging tariffs has always existed, it was not structured.
This is why Tap Electric has invested time and resources in analysing these charges and presenting the information in a clear and accessible manner for users.
Through advanced algorithms, the application not only compares costs but also monitors available chargers in real-time.
This allows drivers to see the most economical options based on their location.
The necessity of this feature became evident during a conversation Spoelstra had with a driver who had recently acquired a plug-in hybrid vehicle.
Upon discovering that “refuelling” prices in her neighbourhood were excessive, she opted to use her petrol engine instead of charging her car.
“That is exactly the situation we want to prevent,” notes the CEO.
With Map Intel, users can explore the charging network in their area, learn about prices, and make more informed choices about their mobility.
The application is designed to be intuitive.
How? Upon opening Map Intel, users can view an interactive map displaying the charging tariffs of various operators in their vicinity.
“You don’t need to be an expert in eMobility: just download the app, look around, and decide where to charge,” he adds.
The app displays not only the cost per kilowatt-hour but also the management of each “refuelling” network, enabling drivers to swiftly and easily select the most affordable option.
Furthermore, the tool provides valuable insights for local governments.
“We enable municipalities to compare their tariffs with those of other cities and provinces, which can drive improvements in their services,” the CEO mentions.
The goal is to foster a constructive debate on how to make energy supply more accessible and economical for all citizens.
Tap Electric maintains up-to-date information through technical connections with CPOs, allowing them to receive real-time data on each charger’s prices.
“We do not have to worry excessively about data acquisition, but rather about how we process it to make it useful,” explains Spoelstra.
How has the reception of Map Intel been?
“We are pleased to see that users value tariff transparency,” the CEO indicates.
Although there was initially no clear demand for this feature, interest has rapidly increased.
“Drivers are excited about the amount of information they can obtain simply,” he assures.
And he adds: “We are continuously developing and enhancing the tool.”
What is Tap Electric’s mission in the eMobility sector?
Since its founding in 2021, Tap Electric has focused its efforts on a rapidly evolving market, seeking to address the needs of both individual drivers and businesses.
“We are creating a comprehensive platform that encompasses everything from public charging to fleet management, ensuring that both individual users and operators can access the information they need,” Spoelstra states.
This includes not only the cost of refuelling but also the reliability of the data, ensuring that users do not face unexpected bills.
“The consumer focus is fundamental to us,” he says.
As demand for electric vehicles continues to grow, so does the need for transparent and accessible charging infrastructure.
In this context, the firm has implemented a proactive approach to tackle the challenges of the charging market.
Each one presents its own challenges, whether in terms of charger availability or price clarity.
“That is why we are committed to informing and empowering drivers, without them having to become experts on the topic,” asserts the CEO.
Currently, the platform is available in the Netherlands, Belgium, the United Kingdom, and Ireland, but they do not rule out expanding to new locations in the coming years.
