About Osprey
Osprey is one of the largest and fastest growing rapid electric vehicle (EV) charging networks in the UK. They position themselves as a network operator of rapid and ultra-rapid EV charging points that are worry free and enjoyable to use. This fast, reliable and easy-to-use approach to EV charging earned them recognition from Zap-Map when, in November 2022, they were rated as one of the top 3 public charging networks in the UK. Their 1000+ charging units are situated in convenient and considered locations, supporting their belief that charging time shouldn’t be wasted time. By partnering with landlords such as Marston’s, Ediston and British Garden Centres their customers can put their recharging time to good use with access to practical amenities such as refreshments and shopping.
Challenge
When Osprey onboard a new landlord, they take full responsibility for the charger installation and all associated maintenance thereafter, including customer and site care as part of their partnership. To ensure they provide the best charging experience for drivers and minimal inconvenience for landlords, Osprey require a connectivity solution to ensure each of their charging units is online, all of the time. Connectivity is key for two reasons: 1, it enables a payment to be taken and 2, it provides a real-time overview of the performance and availability of each charging unit.
Without connectivity EV drivers are unable to make electronic payments. As a pioneering brand, Osprey were the first charging operator to integrate card readers in their charging units and continue to innovate with new and emerging payment methods. With this forward thinking comes an added pressure to ensure that the payment functionality is operational around the clock. Unreliable connectivity has an instant impact on revenue and brand reputation.
EV drivers depend on reliable charging stations and often deviate their route to stop at one, so when they aren’t working, it can have serious implications. Charging units can occasionally suffer from malfunctions and breakdowns. Connectivity enables each charger to be monitored in real-time, so if an issue is detected it can be fixed proactively and quickly.
As our network of charging locations and landlord partners increases quickly, it’s crucial that we have assurance that our connectivity is scalable, reliable and secure. I’m confident that we have that with Wireless Logic
Solution
The aspiration was to provide a solution that minimised coverage issues and network outages. When a charging unit is offline, payments cannot be made, revenue is impacted, customers are highly inconvenienced and landlords are troubled. With a commitment to provide high quality, ultra-rapid charging to both customers and landlord, unreliable connectivity was not an option.
Wireless Logic were able to provide Osprey with non-steered roaming SIMs, which allows connectivity to the strongest of 4 UK networks. This provides added reassurance that connectivity will be available all of the time.
Outcome
By using connectivity from Wireless Logic, Osprey are able to deliver on their brand promise to provide rapid and ultra-rapid EV charging points that are worry free and enjoyable to use. To date the solution has already reduced downtime by a cumulative total of almost 50 hours across the previously problematic sites.
From a Wireless Logic perspective, we’re delighted to play a part in supporting the EV driver community. We are committed to accelerating the economic, social and environmental change driven by IoT and by working with Osprey, we are aiding the electrification of transport and positively contributing towards the green agenda.
Our partnership with Wireless Logic has improved the day-to-day experience for our customers. We’ve built a brand that promises ease of use and reliability and with connectivity from Wireless Logic that’s exactly what we aim to deliver