Swarco eVolt has partnered with the AA to provide assistance to users of its electric vehicle charging network.

The partnership between Swarco and the AA means new and existing EV drivers will benefit from reassuring support, the companies say

As part of its managed services offer, the AA will support drivers if they need help at an eVolt charge point, handling calls about both the electric car and electric charging infrastructure to assist users to get charged and on their way again.

Justin Meyer, managing director of Swarco eVolt, said “By partnering with the UK’s largest motoring organisation, we are showing Swarco’s commitment to making EV driving as seamless and enjoyable as possible.”

Meyer continued that the company wishes to help new EV drivers who may be overwhelmed by the oft-confusing variety of charging networks, subscription models, driver apps and payment platforms.

Dean Hedger, EV new business development manager at the AA, commented: “We are experienced in providing managed services support for manufacturers, fleets and financial institutions to help keep their customers’ vehicles moving. As we develop our EV expertise, including having the largest group of EV Level 2 trained technicians in the UK, the logical next step is to ensure we can support the infrastructure that goes hand-in-hand with EV vehicle roll-out.”

The AA team has the expertise to talk a driver through basic user instructions and troubleshooting for all eVolt charging points, which range from rapid 150kW DC units to slow charging AC.

Common problems include users with the wrong subscription model, or the cable does not work, or a previous user has pressed the unit’s emergency stop button.

The AA customer service team is given location and live status of the charge point where a driver is calling from, the company added, which means they can see any technology issues or faults that need to be reported to Swarco’s technical team.

Of course, being the AA, it is well-placed to assist drivers with recovery if there happens to be an issue with their vehicle rather than the charger, while if the charge point itself is the cause of the problem then the AA will direct users to the nearest functioning charge point.

“We believe this focus on customer service is a positive step forward for the provision of EV charging in the UK,” Meyer added. “It will make a real difference to the EV drivers already on the road and to new ones in the early stages of getting to grips with charging technology so they can get more enjoyment from their EV driving experience.”