1. If you think you have a compatible vehicle, please register your eligibility here.
2. As part of the certification process, users will need to enter their registration plate number to check the eligibility of the vehicle. By entering the reg number, the vehicle's VIN/chassis number will be located through the DVLA lookup function and the PCID will be created.
If the registration number fails to present the correct vehicle, users can instead manually enter their VIN (vehicle identification number)/chassis number.
The VIN/chassis number is a 17-character code found at the bottom of an EVs windscreen on the passenger's side. Alternatively, it can also be found in the V5 vehicle registration document.
If you’d like to learn more about the VIN, check out the RAC’s blog: VIN - what is it and why is it important?
3. Once the PCID has been confirmed by the EV driver, a Plug & Charge certificate is created by the vehicle manufacturer (e.g. Volkswagen). This certificate protects the vehicle and user data during the Plug & Charge process by securing communication through encryption, decryption, and two-way authentication. The Octopus Electroverse team will send this certificate for the EV driver to accept and install in their vehicle (via the EV manufacturer app).
4. Once installed, the Plug & Charge functionality will be ready to use with any compatible charge point! Currently, you can use Plug & Charge at any IONITY location! Use the Electroverse map to find your nearest IONITY charge point.
To use Plug & Charge, simply plug in your EV, and wait 10-15 seconds for the session to start. We'd advise keeping an eye on the IONITY unit just to make sure the charge starts smoothly!
For more information on Plug & Charge and whether your vehicle is compatible, head to our "What is Plug & Charge?" blog!