This guide outlines how charge point operators can utilize the Smartcar API to implement plug-and-charge capabilities, enabling automatic billing and session management through vehicle identification and charging data.
Before implementing plug-and-charge capabilities, ensure you have:
For more details, refer to the Getting Started Guide.
Plug-and-charge allows drivers to initiate charging sessions and handle payments automatically without interacting with external apps or card readers. By integrating with the Smartcar EV Charging API, operators can:
This guide details how to use specific Smartcar API endpoints to implement plug-and-charge functionality for electric vehicles.
The GET /vin endpoint helps link a vehicle to the driver’s account for billing by returning the unique vehicle identification number, used for identifying and authenticating vehicles during plug-and-charge.
You can retrieve the current battery level and range through the GET /battery endpoint. The battery’s state of charge is essential for calculating energy consumption during charging.
Use the POST /charge endpoint to initiate and end charging sessions remotely.
Ensure the vehicle is authenticated through the Smartcar Connect flow to allow API access.
Retrieve the state of charge (SoC) using GET /battery to determine the current battery level. This ensures that charging sessions start when necessary, and it allows for accurate tracking of energy consumption from the beginning of the session.
Retrieve the VIN using GET /vin to identify the vehicle and link it with the driver’s account for billing.
Start the charging process remotely using POST /charge/start. The vehicle’s VIN will be used for billing.
Retrieve the state of charge with GET /battery to monitor energy consumption during the session.
End the session with POST /charge/stop once the desired energy level is reached or based on scheduled requirements.