How we helped Driveco solidify their position as a French leader in electric charging
Overview
Driveco is a French pioneer in charging. Since 2010 they design, install, finance and operate electric vehicle charging stations, with more than 8,000 charging points deployed (and more are in the process of installation in France).
At the beginning of this project, Driveco raised 250 million euros to become a European leader in electric charging. This is a record for a fundraising in the charging station sector in France, and one of the largest worldwide.
As of 2022, France had more than 80,000 electric vehicles registered, with drivers typically using public charging stations once or twice a week. Given this usage pattern, it is estimated that around 40,000 individuals use Driveco’s charging stations monthly, assuming its stations are utilized similarly to other public charging points in the country.
Project goal
As part of Mozza studio, we were hired as freelancers to design a new version of the mobile app and support its development, achieving app store launch within 4 months. The primary KPI was to enhance user satisfaction, measured by App Store ratings already at a solid 4.5.
Challenges
We faced challenges understanding the technical aspects of charging stations due to limited documentation, but overcame this by iterating on workflow documentation with clients. Remote work also restricted our ability to test charging points, making some app screens untestable on our end. To overcome this, we organized on-site testing sessions with Marta, the PM, who traveled to Paris to collaborate directly with the client. Additionally, we created detailed testing guides, enabling the developer to test screens and features periodically.
DESIGN DELIVERABLES
Our approach consisted of six stages for the conception of product and design. Later, we dedicated two months for the development and release of the application in the app stores. Here are the key deliverables we implemented along the journey:
UX Design Audit
I conducted a UX audit, Marta led user interviews, and Julien developed the business strategy. As a result, I identified key pain points and areas for improvement in the product.
Design Principles
Following the UX audit findings, I proposed design principles aligned with the product and business strategy
App Architecture & Navigation Patterns
I worked with the product manager to redesign the information architecture, simplifying navigation by replacing the burger menu with a structured parent-child page system.
Prototype & Test
After organizing the scope in a Kanban board, I collaborated with another designer to create wireframes and, later on, interactive Figma prototype ready for testing.
UI Kit
We refined the solution based on user feedback: they praised the new page structure and navigation but highlighted issues with interactive elements and UX copy clarity. Deliverables included pixel-perfect screens, a design system using the Atomic Design approach, updated Driveco branding, and creation of Light and Dark UI tokens.
Building phase ⚙️
In this stage, Marta and I were in charge of the implementation and distribution of the application to the app stores. We validated the final solution with the client, however, we were compelled to reduce the scope and prioritise key features due to limited resources and a tight schedule.
What we delivered in 2 months in a nutshell:
Our main outcomes:
solution highlights
Dark & Light Mode
Dive into darkness or enjoy a brilliant interface according to your preferences. The choice is yours!
Simplified Navigation
Say goodbye to the complicated "Burger" menu! Easily access all global pages with our new central tab bar.
Charging With or QR Code
Now, start a recharge in an instant, with or without scanning a QR code. Everything is done directly from the station page!
City Search
Quickly find stations near you by simply entering the city name in our intuitive search bar.
Improved Station Database
Get all the essential information about stations, including right and left connectors, name, postal address, distance, and time to reach the station.
New Filtering System
Customize your search according to your needs! Filter stations by connectors, speed, availability, and price.
Transparent Pricing
Our pricing grid is now clearly explained, and charging prices are displayed with complete transparency.
Success Metrics 🎉
The primary KPI of this project was to enhance user satisfaction, measured by app store ratings already at a solid 4.5
App Store rating is 4.6
1 year later