Currently, the predecessor to SparkCharge Mobile, was developed as a simple MVP with limited features and was intended to be replaced with a fully custom and more powerful solution. However, the initially contracted development agency working on the custom application faced significant delivery issues. At the same time, SparkCharge was encountering capability limitations with the existing Currently app, particularly around backend functionality.
SparkCharge once again turned to Flywheel to develop V2 of the Currently app, SparkCharge Mobile. To address the limitations of Currently and create a more robust and user-friendly solution, we chose to build SparkCharge Mobile using FlutterFlow as the front-end development tool and Firebase as the backend solution.
The redesign of SparkCharge Mobile focused on creating a simple, modern, and user-friendly interface. Unlike Adalo, FlutterFlow had the ability to render pixel-perfect designs across all devices, ensuring a consistent user experience.
To ensure a seamless transition for existing users of Currently, we worked with the SparkCharge team to meticulously migrate relevant user data from Adalo's database to the new app's Firebase backend.
Via the Smartcar API integration, users can now connect their EV to the app and grant access to the technician charging their vehicle. Using the app, the technician is able to obtain information regarding the user's EV and unlock/lock the vehicle in order to charge it. This allows users to remotely charge their EVs with the click of the button without having to be physically present at their vehicle to meet the technician, providing a hands-off and convenient mobile charging experience.
Users can view and track in real-time the location of the enroute technician, similar to familiar apps such as Uber or DoorDash. Geofencing utilizes the user's phone location to ensure that charge requests could only be made within SparkCharge's designated service area, preventing accidental orders outside the coverage zone.
To make the onboarding process easier and more efficient, SparkCharge Mobile included additional sign-up and sign-in options such as Google and Apple.
The redesigned user experience enabled an increase in user adoption, resulting in about a 500% growth in the number of active users. Following the release of the new app, SparkCharge also launched its service in two new cities, Austin and Boston, as well as expanded its service area in existing cities. The market expansion coupled with increased user base drove an increase in revenue of about 800%.
