Customer Satisfaction with EV Apps

Customer satisfaction with EV Apps was recently evaluated by J.D. Power who conducted the U.S. OEM EV App Benchmark Survey. The study found the user experience lacking. “For the most part, owners are still very dissatisfied with the functionality and speed of the EV apps that are on the market,” said Jason Norton, senior manager of global automotive consulting at J.D. Power.

The study revealed that EV drivers use apps more frequently than those driving gas vehicles. Driving range, vehicle charging status, and locating charging stations are among the reasons cited.  Up to 37% of EV owners reported not using the app because they didn’t understand it. Dealer orientation at the time of purchase is critical.

Kia’s app is rated among the top of OEM apps. Kia UVO was a long-time industry leader, which morphed into Kia Access and is now offered as Kia Connect. Kia Connect is free for a year from the date of purchase. After that, Kia offers owners three package options. The Light Package is free for five years. The Plus and Ultimate Packages offer more features and enhancements and can be paid via a monthly or annual subscription

Kia Connect Works with Apple Car Play and Android Auto. Some of the features specific to EV owners:

• Battery Control–remotely start, stop, and schedule charging to minimize cost and time
• View Battery Level
• Climate Control – remotely activate, set, and schedule climate controls
• Charging Stations – An online directory displays locations, price details, and compatible connector types.
• Door locks – Lock and unlock with the touch of a button.

At Kia Country, buyers are given a detailed orientation of a vehicle’s features before they drive off the lot. Setting up and explaining Kia Connect is an important part of that introduction. Afterward, owners may call the Product & Technology Specialist, Service Consultants or watch this Kia Connect video

Although new EV registrations are up 60% this year, electric vehicles are still in their infancy. As more buyers migrate to electronic vehicles, OEMs will have an increased imperative to provide an exceptional EV App user experience. The technology, functionality, and features will continue to evolve.