Farol enhances the EV charging experience by providing integrated hardware and software solutions that offer drivers real-time pricing and ad-hoc payment options at charging stations. This platform also enables charge point operators to generate new revenue streams through digital advertising and customer feedback collection on integrated displays.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Electric vehicle (EV) charging presents friction for drivers due to a lack of clear pricing information, complex payment processes, and the inconvenience of requiring separate mobile applications for different charging networks. Charge point operators (CPOs) and e-mobility providers also face challenges in establishing sustainable business models beyond basic charging sessions.
Solution
Farol provides an integrated hardware and software solution designed to enhance the EV charging experience for drivers and create new revenue opportunities for CPOs. The "Lighthouse" hardware, available in various configurations, integrates digital displays at charging stations to offer real-time information on pricing, connector availability, and state of charge. This eliminates the need for drivers to use multiple apps, streamlining the payment and session initiation process with ad-hoc payment capabilities. Furthermore, the platform enables CPOs to leverage these displays for product placement, advertising, and customer feedback collection, thereby diversifying revenue streams and improving operational efficiency through digital communication.
Target Audience
Farol targets EV drivers seeking a more convenient charging experience and charge point operators, e-mobility providers, and location owners looking to monetize charging infrastructure beyond basic energy provision.
Features
- "The Lighthouse" hardware units designed for locations with up to 12 connectors, and "The Lighthouse mini" for up to 4 connectors.
- Integrated digital displays (available in 32", 43", and 55" sizes for "Lighthouse prismas") providing point-of-sale guidance.
- Ad-hoc payment capabilities for seamless, app-free charging initiation.
- Real-time display of pricing, State of Charge (SoC), and Electric Mobility Service Provider (eMSP) availability.
- Functionality for product placement and advertising on charging station displays.
- Customer feedback and experience rating mechanisms integrated into the user interface.
- Digital communication capabilities to reduce sticker costs and customer support overhead.