APS SmartCharge

Frequently asked questions

What is APS SmartCharge?

APS SmartCharge is a connected car EV platform that allows organizations and individuals to gather useful data insights from electric vehicles, while also rewarding EV drivers for participation in utility-run EV programs.

How does it work?

Participants will install a connected car device in their vehicle that automatically collects and transmits vehicle information via a cellular connection. For Tesla drivers, you will connect your vehicle directly through your connected services account without a connected car device. Data collected is shared with participants in a personalized portal and will be used by Smart EV Rewards and Arizona Public Service to understand EV charging impacts on the grid.

What information will APS SmartCharge collect?

APS SmartCharge will collect information about:

• Charging session duration, energy consumption and location.
• GPS charging location coordinates will be used to determine how much charging is occurring within the APS service territory. We only collect GPS information when you are charging, not when you are driving.
• Trip duration, energy consumption and distance travelled.
• Personal information such as name, email, vehicle type and home address.

Is the data that APS SmartCharge collect secure?

Information that can identify you personally will not be made public or given to organizations outside of Smart EV Rewards and APS Public Services. For more details on the handling of your personal information, please refer to your Smart EV Rewards program’s Terms and Conditions, found at the bottom of your program Sign in page.

Smart EV Rewards follows the highest standards for cybersecurity and complies with ISO 27001:2013 security standards.

What is a GO Device, and what does it do?

The GO Device is a small telematics device used by Smart EV to give electric vehicle drivers access to a wealth of information about their cars like driving efficiency, battery health, and more. It makes EV data access easy, comparable, and shareable.

GO Devices gather data directly from your vehicle’s internal systems, processes it, and makes it available to you via a mobile-friendly dashboard on Smart EV Rewards.

Where does the hardware device plug in?

The device is easy to install – simply plug it into your vehicle’s onboard diagnostics (OBD-II) port. The OBD-II port is typically located below the steering wheel and is the same port mechanics plug into for diagnostic checks.

How do I install my GO connected car device?

If you still have questions, please contact support@smartevrewards.com.

Can I participate?

You are eligible if you own or lease a plug-in electric vehicle – either a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle or battery electric vehicle, and you are an APS customer that typically charges your vehicle within the APS service territory.

What will I get for participating?

You’ll earn a $25 bonus for getting started with the program and an additional $5 in rewards every month for staying connected and charging in the APS service territory. You may be eligible for additional rewards as time goes on.

You can register up to 3 vehicles in the program, so please be sure to include all of your electric vehicles in the application to ensure you receive the maximum reward!

Rewards are paid out on a per-vehicle-bases, so if you register 3 vehicles, you will earn $25 for getting started and then $5 per vehicle per month for participating. Rewards are paid out to you via PayPal every month.

How will I be rewarded for my participation?

Qualified participants will receive cash deposits into a PayPal account every month. Setup your PayPal account here.

All rewards earned in a calendar month are paid out to participants at the end of the following month (or the next business day if the last day falls on a weekend or holiday).

Can I register more than one EV with the program?

Yes! Simply indicate the number of vehicles you wish to register for the program (for a max of 3) in your application.

What is the difference between a hybrid and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle?

A conventional hybrid operates only on gasoline. A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle can be connected to an external electric source to charge its battery. If your vehicle can be plugged in, you may be eligible to join the APS Smart EV program.

What is the study timeline?

Prospective participants can apply for the program starting on March 1, 2023, with the data collection period lasting one year with the possibility of an extension.

I am already using an OBD device in my car. Can I still participate?

No problem! Send us an email at support@smartevrewards.com and we can send you a free y-cable so that you can have both devices connected.

Can I remove the device?

The device should remain plugged in for the duration of the study. However, it is fine if your auto shop temporarily removes the device for diagnostic testing. Just be sure it is plugged back in afterward.

What if I want to opt-out of the program?

If you move out of state, sell your EV or simply wish to no longer participate in the program, please notify Smart EV Rewards support by email support@smartevrewards.com to end your participation in the program and for instructions on how to return your connected car device if you have not yet activated it.

What happens to my data when I stop participation?

Once you email us, we will unsubscribe your vehicle. At that point, our system will no longer collect data from your vehicle. The system also anonymizes all past data and removes all personally identifiable user and vehicle information.

Where can I get help with my Geotab device or connecting my Tesla?

For issues with your Geotab device, please review the installation instructions in the FAQ section. If you are still having issues with the installation, please contact us at support@smartevrewards.com.

For issues connecting to your Tesla account, please confirm your Tesla login credentials and try signing into your Tesla account. If you are unsure of your password, you can reset your password if needed. If you are still unable to connect through our portal, please contact us at support@smartevrewards.com