Make smart energy choices.

In a surprising turn of events, Enel X Way North America, the company behind the popular JuiceBox electric vehicle chargers, has announced its departure from the U.S. and Canadian markets1.

This decision, set to take effect on October 11, 2024, has left many EV owners wondering about the future of their home charging solutions. If you're a JuiceBox owner, here's what you need to know and what steps you should consider taking next.

The Impact on JuiceBox Owners

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Loss of Connectivity Features

The most immediate change for JuiceBox owners is the discontinuation of all connectivity services1. This means:

• The Enel X Way app will be removed from app stores
• You'll lose the ability to monitor charging status remotely
• Scheduling features will no longer be available
• Usage history and access restrictions will cease to function

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Continued Basic Functionality

Despite these changes, there's some good news. Your JuiceBox charger will continue to function as a basic EV charger2. You'll still be able to plug in your vehicle and charge it, but without the smart features that may have influenced your initial purchase decision.

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What JuiceBox Owners Should Do Next

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Assess Your Needs

First, evaluate how much you relied on the smart features of your JuiceBox. If you primarily used it as a simple plug-and-charge device, the impact on your daily routine might be minimal.

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Explore Alternative Smart Charging Options

If smart features were crucial to your charging routine, consider these options:

1. Wait for Potential Third-Party Solutions: There's a possibility that third-party developers might create apps to restore some functionality to JuiceBox chargers2.
2. Investigate Replacement Chargers: Look into other smart EV chargers on the market. Brands like ChargePoint have been reported to offer reliable alternatives2.
3. Check with Your Utility Company: Some power companies offer rebates or discounts on EV chargers, which could offset the cost of a replacement2.

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Maintain Your Current Setup

If you're satisfied with basic charging functionality, you can continue using your JuiceBox charger as is. Remember, it will still charge your EV effectively, just without the added smart features.

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Consider a Return or Exchange

If you recently purchased your JuiceBox charger, check with the retailer about their return policy. Some customers have reported success in returning their units to stores like Costco2.

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The Broader Impact on EV Infrastructure

Enel X Way's exit affects more than just home chargers. Over 170,000 EV chargers across North America will be left without software support6. This development raises questions about the stability of the EV charging market and the importance of interoperability in charging infrastructure.

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Looking Ahead: The Future of EV Charging

As the EV market continues to evolve, this situation highlights the need for:

• More robust and standardized charging solutions
• Increased focus on open protocols and interoperability
• Greater involvement from established energy companies in EV infrastructure

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Conclusion

While the closure of Enel X Way's North American operations is undoubtedly a setback for JuiceBox owners, it's not the end of the road for your EV charging needs.

By assessing your requirements, exploring alternatives, and staying informed about developments in the EV charging space, you can ensure that your electric vehicle remains charged and ready for the road ahead.

Remember, the EV industry is rapidly evolving, and new solutions are likely to emerge. Stay tuned to EV forums and news sources for the latest updates and potential solutions that may arise in response to this situation.