As the world accelerates toward a sustainable, electrified future, the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is both a necessity and a challenge. One of the most persistent barriers to widespread EV adoption is the scarcity and uneven distribution of public charging infrastructure. However, a new wave of innovation—rooted in the sharing economy—is transforming this landscape. Peer-to-peer (P2P) charging models, exemplified by platforms like Renault’s Plug Inn, are bridging infrastructure gaps, empowering communities, and unlocking new business opportunities for OEMs, utilities, and digital product leaders.
Despite rapid growth in EV sales, many drivers remain anxious about long-distance travel due to the limited availability of public charging stations. Traditional infrastructure rollouts are capital-intensive and slow to scale, often lagging behind the pace of EV adoption. This gap is particularly acute in residential neighborhoods and rural areas, where public charging is sparse. The result? Range anxiety persists, and potential EV buyers hesitate.
P2P charging platforms offer a compelling solution. By enabling EV owners to share their home charging stations with other drivers, these platforms instantly expand the available charging network—without the need for costly new infrastructure. This model not only increases convenience and flexibility for drivers but also creates new revenue streams for individuals and businesses with underutilized charging assets.
Renault, a pioneer in electric mobility, recognized the urgency of addressing infrastructure gaps as EV adoption surged. In partnership with Publicis Sapient, Renault launched Plug Inn—a peer-to-peer home charging rental platform designed to empower drivers and accelerate the transition to electric mobility.
The Plug Inn journey began with a rapid, eight-week sprint to define the vision, business case, and minimum viable product (MVP). Drawing inspiration from leading sharing economy platforms, the team focused on creating a seamless, trustworthy, and community-driven experience. Key strategies included:
The results were transformative. Within the first month, Plug Inn attracted over 8,000 users, registered 1,000 charging stations, and achieved 25,000 downloads. By 2030, the platform is projected to prevent 32,000 tons of CO2e emissions, demonstrating both environmental and commercial impact.
P2P charging platforms unlock significant value for all ecosystem participants:
The success of P2P charging hinges on robust digital platforms that deliver seamless, secure, and scalable experiences. Key considerations include:
P2P charging platforms are more than transactional marketplaces—they are community enablers. Successful platforms invest in:
No single player can solve the EV infrastructure challenge alone. OEMs, utilities, municipalities, and technology partners must collaborate to create integrated, interoperable ecosystems. By embracing P2P charging and the sharing economy, OEMs can:
Peer-to-peer charging is more than a stopgap—it’s a blueprint for the future of sustainable mobility. By leveraging the power of the sharing economy, digital platforms, and community engagement, OEMs and partners can accelerate EV adoption, close infrastructure gaps, and create lasting value for customers and society.
At Publicis Sapient, we help mobility leaders design and deliver the digital solutions that power this transformation. The journey to a cleaner, more connected future is underway—and with innovative models like Plug Inn, the road ahead is open to all.