Blink Network features
Regardless of which business model a company or government entity chooses, all Blink charging stations are integrated into the Blink Network, making chargers easier to locate for drivers. In addition to our proprietary network, which includes visibility in the Blink Mobile App, chargers will also appear on popular EV charging locator services like Google Maps and PlugShare.
With the cloud-based Blink Network, charging station hosts can:
See and manage all charging stations, including monitoring which ones are currently in use,
Control pricing,
Create user groups and charge different fees for each group,
Collect fees based on power used, time spent at the charger, or a combination of both,
Set fees based on the time of day to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates.
Selecting the right Blink charging stations
Whether you need a couple of Level 2 (L2) charging stations for your employees or are planning an entire fleet deployment for hundreds of vehicles, Blink Charging has you covered with a range of options.
Level 2
Level 2 chargers, like the Blink Series 7 and Blink Series 8, are ideal for vehicles parked for extended periods, such as overnight or during a work shift. These chargers use alternating current (AC) electricity, which the EV’s onboard charger converts to direct current (DC) to charge the battery. Charging can take anywhere from four to eight hours, depending on the battery's initial charge level.
DC Fast Chargers
DC Fast Chargers (DCFCs), such as the Blink Series 9 and the Blink 60kW - 360kW DCFCs, deliver direct current straight to the vehicle's battery, bypassing the onboard charger. Since the conversion from AC to DC occurs in the charging station, DCFCs can charge a vehicle's battery much faster than L2 chargers, usually in under an hour.
All of Blink’s commercial charging stations can accept various payment methods, including credit cards and the Blink Mobile App. For non-paying situations, like in-house fleets, the payment options can be easily deactivated.
Conducting an EV site assessment
Purchasing and installing DCFCs requires a greater commitment than L2 charging stations and may even necessitate electrical upgrades at your location. That’s why Blink starts by understanding each new client’s charging needs to help them develop a comprehensive site electrification plan.
A key part of this plan is conducting an EV charging site assessment. This assessment identifies the best locations for installing charging stations while minimizing costs. The most desired spots might be prohibitively expensive due to wiring and trenching costs, whereas a less obvious location closer to the building's power source could be a better option. The site assessment helps us and our clients determine the best course of action for site electrification.
Conclusion
With Blink’s new NASPO ValuePoint contract, government agencies can leverage bulk purchasing power to save money and secure better deals on EV charging infrastructure. At Blink, we assist with planning, deploying, and maintaining the charging stations you purchase. To get started with Blink Charging, contact us to speak with an EV charging expert today.
