Danlaw Inc.'s newly unveiled CleverCharge aims to redefine home electric vehicle charging and connected car technology, so if you're an EV owner, and you love connected gadgets pay attention. As far as Level 2 EV chargers go, this intelligent solution combines innovative AI-enhanced features, a user-friendly experience, and the brand's patented CleverKey plug-in device technology. Danlaw gave us the run-down, and we're excited to see this innovative tech product start to ship soon.
What Sets CleverCharge Apart?
CleverCharge isn't just another EV charging station; it's a complete charging ecosystem with advanced features that's notably designed with multi-vehicle households in mind. “CleverCharge eliminates range anxiety and ensures your EV is ready for the next day’s routine,” said Scott Bolt, Chief Strategy Officer at Danlaw, Inc. “We designed it to not only be the easiest home EV charger to install and use, but also the most powerful in terms of its capabilities.”
As we mentioned, it's powered by CleverKey, a unique OBD-II plug-in device. Once installed in the OBD-II port, CleverCharge automatically recognizes your EV's make and model, and creates a personalized profile for each electric vehicle.
With its AI assistant, CleverCharge learns your driving patterns, delivering proactive reminders to charge when needed. Plus, the mobile app offers insights into vehicle battery range, battery health, and even energy cost savings.
Key features include:
- CleverCharge AI-Driven Insights: Using advanced AI technology, the app tracks and predicts charging needs based on your daily routines. For example, if it knows you travel longer distances on Wednesdays, with plug-in reminders you're likely to get a mobile notification on Tuesday evening if you're not already plugged in.
- Dynamic Scheduling: It can charge your vehicle during off-peak energy hours to save money. Other electric vehicle chargers do this too; if you haven't upgraded to a product that can save you even more cost per charge, do it.
- Multi-Vehicle Profiles: We're a two EV household, and I like that it can manage all EVs in the household, including vehicles at other locations.
- User-Friendly App: You can monitor the battery status in miles of range or kilowatt-hours, and track charging costs at a glance with the mobile app dashboard.
Installation and Performance
Danlaw designed CleverCharge with versatility and convenience in mind. It offers two installation options, hardwired & NEMA. A hardwired setup or a plug-in option using a NEMA 14-50 plug, making it accessible for a variety of households.
How is the installation easier than competitors?
This is a claim we needed to check. "The design of CleverCharge has been specifically optimized by Danlaw to make the electrical and physical installation easier than other chargers," explains Bolt. "Through consultation with actual electricians and EV charger installers, our engineers have designed a home EV charger that specifically addresses their concerns."
He explains:
- Mounting of both the smart charger AND the EV plug holder attaches to the wall using a single stud (each) vs having to put 4 wall anchors in and then installing the charger.
- For hardwired installs, the entire charger can be mounted prior to running the house wiring to the charger. This is possible because of the unique CleverCharge inside seal used for the top cover. The top cover can be removed completely for the installation of wiring, and then when all wiring is completed, the cover is simply pushed on and 4 side screws hold it in place. By the use of side screws, it is easy to get your screwdriver into place to secure the top cover. Furthermore, the top cover has high quality threaded metal inserts making the installation of the 4 side screws very easy and very solid. These screws are not required to be torqued down in order to seal the case as the act of pushing the cover down over the inside seal creates the water-tight seal. Screw tension is NOT responsible for creating a good seal, but rather just holding the top cover on the charger.
Specs and Charging Standards
- Charging Speeds: Up to 46 mph (hardwired) or 38 mph (NEMA).
- Charging Power: 48 amps for hardwired setups; 40 amps for NEMA connections.
- Connector Types: NACS (SAE J3400) or SAE J1772 charge port, compatible with all EVs, including Teslas.
- Dimensions: Compact design measuring 12x8x3.2 inches.
For Tesla owners, CleverCharge is a seamless addition. It supports vehicles with an OBD-II connector. Whether you're upgrading your existing charger or adding another, this system adapts to your lifestyle.
FAQ
CleverCharge can save you money on energy costs? How?
CleverCharge’s AI assistant notifies users of the best charge time based on energy rates, helping you take advantage of off-peak hours. The app also tracks charging costs, so you can monitor savings over time.
Can CleverCharge manage multiple EVs across different locations?
Yes, the app organizes chargers and vehicles by location, making it ideal for families with multiple properties or EVs. Each vehicle is automatically profiled by CleverKey, streamlining the charging process wherever you go.