Helpful apps for EV owners

If you're new to EV ownership, charging your vehicle can be quite the learning curve. Unlike filling up with petrol, EV charging requires a little more forethought than just pulling up at the local servo. You need to know what charging stations are compatible with your car, where they're located (they're not quite as ubiquitous as petrol stations yet), and what kind of charging is available (fast or ultra-fast).

So how do you do it?

Basically, apps become your best friend. To access public charging stations, you'll usually need to download the operating company's app, create an account, link your payment method to it, and then plug in.

Here are some of the apps you might like to get started with:

PlugShare allows drivers to contribute reviews and photos to help other EV drivers make informed decisions about where to plug in. Think of it like TripAdvisor, except for public charging stations rather than resorts.

How it works: search by location, kilowatt range, station count, amenities and more to work out where you want to top up your charge. You can also set up smart filters to only display charging locations compatible with your EV, and turn on notifications to alert you when a charging station is installed nearby.

Why we love it: offers the ability to search for charging stations not just in Australia, but overseas too — that's a win for you, globetrotters!

Available for: iPhone and Android.

Chargefox claims to be Australia's largest and fastest growing EV charging network, boasting over 170,000 app downloads (at the time of publication).

How it works: download the app, create an account and start searching for stations near you. The app shows you real-time charging status and availability, and offers 24/7 customer phone support.

Why we love it: the Chargefox platform brings together a range of chargers operated by business and governments all over Australia, including stations owned by NRMA, RACV, RACT, RAA, RACQ, AANT and more.

Available for: iPhone and Android.

Evie Networks is one of Australia’s leading electric vehicle DC charging networks, hosting hundreds of fast-charging EV stations across 14 cities and regions in every state and territory in Australia.

How it works: download the app, create an account, select your location, and find a station on the map. Just like that, you'll get an instant snapshot of available charging locations. You'll also be able to see your charging progress in real time and view a history of previous charges.

Why we love it: Evie's website hosts heaps of helpful articles and video tutorials about understanding your car's charge and how to top up.

Available for: iPhone and Android.

Jolt has global reach, with its network spanning across North America, Europe and the Asia Pacific region.

How it works: download the app, register an account and search for a charger. Green pins show available chargers, black pins show unavailable chargers, and grey pins show chargers that are out of order.

Why we love it: Jolt offers their users a bonus 7kWh every day with their Daily 7kWh plan (a service fee applies, see their website for details).

Available for: iPhone and Android.

Alongside roadside assistance and resort offerings, our friends over at the NRMA also have their own electric charging network with locations spanning all around Australia. Eligible NRMA* members can also get a discount on charging.

How it works: locate EV chargers and check availability, peak times and charging updates.

Why we love it: with the ability to also search for cheap fuel options in the app, it's particularly handy for plug-in hybrid electric vehicle owners (don't worry, we didn't forget you!).

Available for: iPhone and Android.