Beep targets integration of different charging apps

Charging up an electric vehicle here in Singapore, and even as you travel across South East Asia, could soon become a lot easier.

The move comes as Beep, an Internet of Things transaction platform start-up, has announced the launch of its electric vehicle roaming platform. Called Voltality, its network is said to already span over 1,350 charge points, together with 11 operators in Singapore. This network includes the nation's largest operators - SP Group, ComfortDelGro Engie, and Charge+.

Beep's Voltality platform will allow different manufacturers, charging operators, and fleets to integrate charging connectivity into their own existing applications

The firm states that it is targeting an integrated ecosystem that will offer electric vehicle owners and businesses easy access to charging stations, payment services, and even vehicles, without the need to download multiple apps or sign-up for accounts with multiple providers.

Beep's platform will act as a universal translator, seamlessly integrating different charging systems used by various operators. This eliminates the need for operators to undergo additional integration efforts.

Voltality will not take the form of a proprietary charging app, however. Beep states it will instead offer a while-labelled website or Application Programming Interface that allows vehicle manufacturers, charging operators, and fleets to integrate charging connectivity into their existing applications or interface.

Charging operators including SP Group, ComfortDelGro Engie, and Charge+ are said to already be included in the platform

Beep states that local firms including the Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Centre in Singapore Tribecar, eco-last mile logistics solutions provider EVFY, and local electric motorcycle start-up Quantum Mobility are among the first to utilise its network, establishing access to a variety of mutually consenting participating operators on agreed terms.

Electric vehicle owners here in Singapore currently can make use of the LTA's MyTransport.SG to look for charging stations. The app currently shows the location and real-time availability of a total of 15 different charging operators, although payment for charging cannot be made via this app.

Beep has additionally announced that it has completed a new seed round that sees it raising funds which it will use to enhance technical connectivity and roll out what it states will be the largest roaming network in South East Asia as it plans to expand into Malaysia, Thailand, and beyond.