Would you recommend getting a chargepoint card, or is the app enough? I realize chargepoint is for emergency charging only, otherwise not so worth it. Thanks!
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Chargepoint question
- Thread starter Sir Guacamolaf
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- Model S
I'd say the card is worth having. (I don't think it costs anything does it? I didn't when I signed up 3 years ago). I've used chargepoint stations in parking garages with no cell service, so it certainly helps when there is no connectivity for the app.
Thanks, I'll get the card then. I think its 5 bucks. I'll most likely loose the damn card though. What year is this! :-/
The cards are simple to use and always work for me. I never used the phone app. There are tons of ChargePoint stations, I use them a lot.
f-stop
Active Member
I have the ChargePoint iOS app and also the RFID card - I received 2 cards when I ordered.
I have several times tried to activate a charger using the app and it wouldn't work for some reason - even outside where there was no problem with a cellular signal, so in those cases the card came in handy. Also the app sometimes seems to take a long time to activate the charger, whereas the RFID card always activates almost immediately. So lately I'm tending to just use the card since it seems faster
I have several times tried to activate a charger using the app and it wouldn't work for some reason - even outside where there was no problem with a cellular signal, so in those cases the card came in handy. Also the app sometimes seems to take a long time to activate the charger, whereas the RFID card always activates almost immediately. So lately I'm tending to just use the card since it seems faster
f-stop
Active Member
you're welcome!
p.s. another reason I'm tending to just use the RFID card lately - around town there are a few ChargePoint locations with multiple charging stations at the same site, but for some reason on the app they've got the chargers mixed up in the graphical map.
For example on a street with two locations appearing on the map, say the north charger and the south charger. In the app I click on the north charger, but I hear a click and the plug on the south charger one parking space away unlocks! Quite annoying. I've reported those locations to ChargePoint but they say it's a problem for the station owner. they say they've notified them, but many months later the problem remains. So, RFID card to the rescue, just tap the station you're at and no mistake. Too bad, because the app is otherwise still useful.
p.s. another reason I'm tending to just use the RFID card lately - around town there are a few ChargePoint locations with multiple charging stations at the same site, but for some reason on the app they've got the chargers mixed up in the graphical map.
For example on a street with two locations appearing on the map, say the north charger and the south charger. In the app I click on the north charger, but I hear a click and the plug on the south charger one parking space away unlocks! Quite annoying. I've reported those locations to ChargePoint but they say it's a problem for the station owner. they say they've notified them, but many months later the problem remains. So, RFID card to the rescue, just tap the station you're at and no mistake. Too bad, because the app is otherwise still useful.
mikeash
Active Member
I got the card, and several other networks too. I keep them in the kangaroo pocket in the front of the driver's seat. (Do they still have those on new cars?) I've only paid for a charge once, but I've used the card to activate free chargers a lot. There are a bunch of free chargers that still require activation with a card, don't really understand why.
mikeash
Active Member
Too bad about the pocket, it's perfect for charging cards and my phone.
I think I currently have ChargePoint, Blink, and SemaConnect. I don't think I've ever used the other two so I'd probably skip those doing it again. I also have an EVGo card in the mail right now, as I'm taking a trip next month where I might want to use their CHAdeMO stations.
Poke around some on PlugShare and see what networks are common where you think you might be going. Your needs might not match mine.
I think I currently have ChargePoint, Blink, and SemaConnect. I don't think I've ever used the other two so I'd probably skip those doing it again. I also have an EVGo card in the mail right now, as I'm taking a trip next month where I might want to use their CHAdeMO stations.
Poke around some on PlugShare and see what networks are common where you think you might be going. Your needs might not match mine.
I agree, get the card. Easier to use, quick. I also have occasionally used the NRG eVgo card -- not free but handy.
cpa
Active Member
Yes, I recommend the little swipe cards. Even though Tesla is building out the destination charging program in concert with Superchargers, there may be locations off the beaten path that you wish to visit. Most ChargePoint locations are only 30A, but there are a handful that are up to 80A.
It has been comforting for me to be able to use the ChargePoint network ~5-6 times in two years to get an adequate charge in some out-of-the way locations.
It has been comforting for me to be able to use the ChargePoint network ~5-6 times in two years to get an adequate charge in some out-of-the way locations.
EVie'sDad
Member
the little swipe cards can be inserted beneath the fob, inside the casing. This way it is always handy but not left with the car. I use the bottom of the fob to swipe/scan the mini card and then use the fob to open the charger door, easy as pie.
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