Today’s society is becoming addicted to subscription-based service offerings. And it’s no wonder, because it eliminates the need to own a product, takes commitment out of the equation, and brings flexibility and simplicity to the subscriber.

According to Harvard Business Review, companies that join the digital membership economy can better connect with their customers and build longer-lasting relationships. Such business models allow them to better predict cash flow, leading to higher profitability. They also generate a group of loyal, long-term users and brand ambassadors, rather than just a quick one-off sale.

Is the subscription economy the next BIG opportunity in e-mobility?

 

The trend in e-mobility is moving towards subscription-based business models, as the e-mobility experience is completely new to many. Car sharing, which we have known for a while, is an option where users can rent a car for a short period on as needed basis. It’s a great solution for trying out an all-electric experience and a more eco-friendly ride around town. However, this model may not be the most cost-optimised option for daily out-of-town commuters. This is where EV subscription models come into play with different pricing and packages. They are a great way to have an electric car at your disposal without ownership obligations, such as insurance and maintenance or even charging.

For the user, having a charger at hand is a great advantage. In fact, for EV driver charging quickly becomes a daily routine at home or whenever the EV is parked, both for convenience and cost. Owning a charger at home or having charging facilities available at work is necessary and takes away the anxiety for new EV drivers running out of power. Therefore, offering chargers as part of the subscription package is a great way to show your customers that you are willing to build a lasting relationship. Subscription-based e-mobility services will continue to gain ground, challenging providers to truly differentiate themselves from others in the market. As mentioned before, building a sustainable business model could be achieved by bundling an EV with EV charging. Alternatively, EV charging could be bundled with energy instead of an EV.

To illustrate a comprehensive range of e-mobility services, here is an example from Etrel’s partner  who successfully launched the energy package for EV drivers, intending to provide 100% green energy at an affordable cost. This subscription-based service allows EV drivers to rent, rather than own, a photovoltaic system with battery storage and an EV charger for a monthly fee. In addition, the subscription period is comparatively short, giving customers just the right amount of time to learn about e-mobility and see how it fits into their lifestyle.

Examples of EV charging bundles that could be offered as a subscription-based service:

To illustrate a comprehensive range of e-mobility services, here is an example from Etrel’s partner who has successfully launched the energy package for EV drivers, intending to provide 100% green energy at an affordable cost. This subscription-based service allows EV drivers to rent, rather than own, a photovoltaic system with battery storage and an EV charger for a monthly fee. In addition, the subscription period is comparatively short, giving customers just the right amount of time to learn about e-mobility and see how it fits into their lifestyle.

To build a sustainable business with a subscription-based e-mobility service, you need to expand the services you offer to fit your customers’ needs. By offering EV charging together with an EV or as part of an energy service package, you cover everything users need regardless of their e-mobility expertise.

Top-notch equipment is customers’ delight 

 

Unlike the vehicle market, which has a vast network of service centers and body shops, e-mobility service providers are typically left on their own to maintain the performance and appearance of their chargers. Maintaining peak charger performance is key to the quality of service and perceived value of a charging hardware-as-a-service brand.  With this in mind, Etrel has launched Refurbishment Program to extend charger usability in the field while reducing long-term investment costs and environmental impact.

Etrel Refurbishment Program extends the life of Etrel INCH chargers with fully replaceable components when they show signs of wear or simply need a little facelift. Plus, in the process, all chargers are thoroughly inspected and cleaned, packaged in brand new packaging, and ready to serve a new customer in no time. Replaced components and packaging are carefully recycled while Etrel INCH chargers are given a new spin in the field.  After their lease cycle, chargers can be sold as refurbished equipment.

Refurbishment Program – less waste and more value

Lower long term investment cost 

Extended usability of chargers is going to reduce your long term investment cost.

Up-to-date and powerful chargers

Giving chargers and reviewing their performance is critical to ensure the best quality of service for customers.

Reduced environmental footprint

The longevity of the chargers and the 99% recyclability of their components help you reduce your environmental footprint.

Not sure how to implement a subscription-based EV charging service into your business model and take early advantage of the emerging trend? Ask our sales team.