There is no getting away from the fact that a connected EV requires a smartphone app. We are assuming both an iOS and Android version is required. Because there is no manufacturer or dealership associated with this car, the app will have a direct connection with the EV and not be dependent on cloud servers. The communications system is part of the electronics.
On starting the app, you will see a basic status overview. There will be a 'settings' icon and tabs for 'monitoring', 'charging', 'hvac' and 'cameras'.
The smartphone app will allow the following to be monitored remotely:
One of the frustrations we have experienced with a lot of EVs is the app interface to enable charging. Many are not intuitive or reliable in operation. The goal is to provide a simple, intuitive and reliable way to control how and when the OSSEV® is charged. It's not rocket science!
The app will allow remote control of charging in terms of charging level, start/stop, etc. We are slightly wary of supporting charging schedules in the app, as they can often conflict with schedules set on the charger. It's a feature that will be needed by some though.
The key features in the charging section of the app will be the charging mode, one of 'charge immediately' or 'charge by routine'. The profile option will allow preset charging options and a schedule to be applied to named routine. The charging options include:
If using the scheduling features in-built into the charger, then the OSSEV® would be set to charge immediately.
The charging rate and required state of charge will be stored and recalled for each driver profile, charging mode and charging routine.
The app will allow remote control of the climate control so that the car can be defrosted remotely. This will work when the OSSEV® is plugged in for charging or unplugged.
The OSSEV® will have integrated, multi-function front and rear cameras that are used for security, as dashcams, for track day video recordings and for parking. The app will allow real-time streaming from the cameras and control of the cameras functions and settings. It will also be possible to view and download dashcam and track day footage.