PayByPhone Introduces Seamless EV Charging & Payments
As EV adoption accelerates across the UK, PayByPhone is responding to the growing demand for streamlined EV management with a new charging and payments feature.
The app, best known for cashless parking payments, is evolving into a comprehensive vehicle management platform. With EV ownership increasing, the launch aims to tackle the frustrations drivers face in juggling multiple apps for charging and maintenance.
The feature connects users to the UK’s largest EV charging network, integrating search, comparison, payment and management tools in one app. Drivers can now find local charging points, check real-time availability and pay securely - all while managing their session remotely.
EV growth fuels change
EVs make up 18.1% of new car registrations in 2024, a significant leap from 6.6% in 2020.
Backed by £200m (US$255.4m) in government funding, the UK is set to have 100,000 public EV charging points installed by next summer. This growth offers greater convenience for EV drivers but comes with challenges - namely, navigating the various apps needed to locate, access and pay for charging points.
PayByPhone’s new feature solves this by linking EV drivers to Plugsurfing, the UK’s largest EV charging network, covering 53,000 chargers across 19,000 locations. This includes 80% of the country’s fast DC and HPC chargers.
The app enables drivers to:
- Search for charging points, filtering by network, connector type, or minimum speed.
- Compare prices and availability in real time.
- Get directions and view details like opening hours and compatibility.
- Pay directly in-app, reducing the risk of QR code fraud - a growing concern in the EV sector.
- Monitor sessions remotely and track charging history for easy receipt management.
By bringing these tools together, PayByPhone offers a safer, simpler charging experience while maintaining its reputation as a trusted name in parking solutions.
From parking to all-in-one vehicle management
PayByPhone’s evolution doesn’t stop at EV charging. The app now includes tools for petrol and diesel drivers, such as a Fuel Price Finder, which shows the cheapest local fuel options - and an MOT booking feature that simplifies vehicle maintenance scheduling.
These additions reflect PayByPhone’s mission to become a one-stop shop for managing all aspects of vehicle ownership.
PayByPhone’s promise has always been to simplify the journey of our motorists so that they can focus on what matters most.
We are living this promise by evolving from a simple digital parking solution into a full-service app for drivers to manage all their vehicle needs. The launch of EV charging payment is the latest in a host of exciting new features we’re rolling out in our app.
I’m delighted to offer EV drivers this new functionality to make their driving experience a simpler one.
A recent survey conducted by the company revealed widespread frustration among drivers about managing separate apps for parking, fuel, charging and vehicle upkeep.
PayByPhone’s unified platform eliminates this hassle by integrating all these services into one app.
Powered by trusted providers - Plugsurfing for EV charging, Allstar for fuel price data and 1link for MOT bookings - PayByPhone leverages leading technology to make vehicle management seamless.
PayByPhone’s transition marks a pivotal moment for modern drivers. Whether you're fuelling up, booking an MOT, or charging your EV, the app now offers a unified solution that streamlines the process and enhances convenience.
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