Electric Vehicle (EV) adoption in India is growing rapidly, driven by government incentives, environmental concerns, and an increasing number of EV models available on the market. However, one of the key challenges for EV owners is the availability of charging infrastructure, particularly fast chargers, which significantly reduce charging time and make long-distance travel more feasible.
The HPCL and chargeMOD partnership for fast charging infrastructure is a strategic step toward addressing these concerns and is expected to transform the way EV users charge their vehicles across the country.
In this article, we’ll delve deep into how this collaboration is set to revolutionize EV charging, streamline access to charging stations, and help accelerate the adoption of electric mobility in India.
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What is the HPCL and chargeMOD Partnership for Fast Charging Infrastructure?
Seamless Access to EV Charging Stations
To enhance the EV ecosystem, chargeMOD, an energy tech startup, has teamed up with Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (HPCL) to create a seamless and accessible EV charging infrastructure across India. This partnership integrates chargeMOD’s app with HPCL’s extensive network of charging stations, allowing EV drivers to access and use HPCL chargers without having to switch between multiple apps or accounts.
The Role of OCPI Technology
The key to making this collaboration smooth is Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI) technology. This technology enables different EV charging networks to communicate with each other, allowing drivers to roam seamlessly across multiple networks. In other words, EV owners can locate, use, and pay for charging services from any station within the HPCL network, all through the chargeMOD app.
“With OCPI roaming and fast charger deployment, we wish to make EV charging quick and user-friendly for all,” said M. Ramanunni, Co-Founder and CEO of chargeMOD.
This breakthrough means that users will no longer face the inconvenience of managing multiple accounts or navigating different apps to charge their EVs, making the entire process much more convenient.
Key Highlights of the HPCL and chargeMOD Partnership for Fast Charging Infrastructure
1. Seamless Access to Charging Stations
Through the integration of Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI) technology, chargeMOD’s app will allow EV owners to seamlessly access all of HPCL’s EV charging stations without the need for multiple accounts or apps. This innovative feature ensures a smooth experience for EV drivers, making it easier to locate, charge, and pay for their charging needs.
- Unified platform: Access to HPCL’s stations via a single app
- No multiple accounts: One app to rule them all, eliminating the need for switching between different apps
- Convenient for long-distance travel: Accurate station location and availability updates for stress-free journeys
2. Deployment of 100+ Fast Chargers
As part of the collaboration, chargeMOD will install over 100 fast chargers at selected HPCL fuel stations across India. These fast chargers will significantly reduce charging times, making EVs a more practical and efficient choice for drivers across the country.
- Faster Charging Times: Charge your EV in less time and get back on the road quickly.
- Wide Availability: Fast chargers located in key cities and along highways.
- Ideal for long-distance travel: Fast charging reduces the need for long wait times during road trips.
3. Expanding HPCL’s EV Charging Network
HPCL has already installed over 4,000 charging stations across India and plans to add more than 2,100 fast chargers in major cities and highways by March 2025. The chargeMOD and HPCL partnership will help fast-track the expansion, improving access to EV charging stations nationwide.
- Nationwide Coverage: From urban centers to remote highways, charging stations will be easily accessible.
- Strategic Locations: HPCL’s network is placed in metro cities and along high-traffic routes, offering convenient options for both city driving and long trips.
The Significance of the HPCL and chargeMOD Partnership for Fast Charging Infrastructure
Addressing Range Anxiety
One of the main challenges to EV adoption in India is range anxiety—the fear that an electric vehicle will run out of charge before reaching a charging station. The HPCL and chargeMOD partnership for fast charging infrastructure directly addresses this concern. With the installation of over 100 fast chargers and the integration of HPCL’s charging stations with chargeMOD’s app, drivers will have greater peace of mind knowing they can find a reliable charger quickly, whether in urban areas or along major highways.
Promoting Sustainable Transportation
The partnership between chargeMOD and HPCL aligns with India’s goal of reducing carbon emissions and promoting clean energy. By enhancing the accessibility of fast chargers, the collaboration encourages more people to adopt electric vehicles, contributing to a cleaner, greener India.
Why Are Fast Chargers So Important?
Fast chargers are essential for reducing the long waiting times associated with EV charging. Traditional chargers can take several hours to fully charge an EV, which is not ideal for drivers who are on tight schedules or need to cover long distances. Fast chargers, on the other hand, can provide up to 80% charge in as little as 30 minutes, allowing drivers to quickly top up and continue their journey.
The addition of 100+ fast chargers at key HPCL outlets will make it easier for EV owners to travel long distances without worrying about running out of power.
Future Outlook: More Than Just a Partnership
The Road Ahead for HPCL and chargeMOD
This collaboration between HPCL and chargeMOD is just the beginning of a broader effort to improve India’s EV infrastructure. As HPCL continues to roll out additional fast chargers and chargeMOD further refines its app-based charging solutions, the country’s EV ecosystem is expected to expand rapidly.
By March 2025, HPCL plans to install over 2,100 fast chargers, expanding the availability of EV charging stations along major highways and in urban areas. This strategic initiative will play a crucial role in encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles, both for personal and commercial use.
HPCL’s commitment to the EV sector is evident as the company was recognized with the “Most Valuable Charge Point Operator” award at the EV India Expo 2024.
Read also: Vecmocon Raises $10 Million in Series A Funding to Revolutionize EV Tech and Expand Globally
FAQs:
1. What is the HPCL and chargeMOD partnership for fast charging infrastructure?
The HPCL and chargeMOD partnership aims to provide seamless access to EV charging stations across India through chargeMOD’s app, integrating OCPI technology for easier use of HPCL’s network. Additionally, the partnership will deploy over 100 fast chargers to reduce charging times.
2. How many charging stations does HPCL currently have?
HPCL has already installed over 4,000 EV charging stations across India and plans to expand its network by adding 2,100+ fast chargers by March 2025.
3. What is OCPI technology?
OCPI (Open Charge Point Interface) is a protocol that allows different charging networks to communicate with each other, enabling seamless roaming and access to charging stations from multiple operators through a single app.
4. How will the HPCL and chargeMOD partnership help reduce range anxiety?
By expanding the network of fast chargers and integrating HPCL stations with the chargeMOD app, drivers will have more charging options available, reducing the anxiety of running out of power on long journeys.
5. Where will the new fast chargers be installed?
The 100+ fast chargers will be installed at selected HPCL outlets in major cities and along highways, ensuring that EV drivers can quickly find a charging station wherever they are.
