No one anywhere was creating our ideal EV charger billing system.
We therefore developed our own billing system.
This billing system is essential to ensure that it is fair to users and profitable for installers.

Act 1: The inspiration behind the product/service idea.
What is a product that is considerate of both users and installers?

The developer was dissatisfied with the fact that the pricing was not based on output, but rather on charging time or a flat fee per charge, and that the charger could not be used without paying a monthly fee.
When the fee is based on charging time, the cost is the same whether charging at 20kW or 50kW, which created a sense of unfairness.
As a result, we began to consider whether we could create a pricing system based on the amount of electricity charged, similar to how it is done at gas stations.

Act 2: Setbacks, Challenges, and Success.
What is the product that users truly want?

To establish a pay-per-kW system, it was necessary to overcome legal barriers.
In order to implement a billing system based on the amount of electricity used (kWh), it was required to measure the electric power using a meter that had passed certification under the provisions of the Measurement Act.
We searched through dozens of companies to find a payment method that did not require membership registration and allowed for credit card or QR code payments without needing to pay a monthly fee.
We aimed to develop a product that was user-friendly and pursued fairness for the users.

Act 3: The contributions and future prospects that FLASH has brought to society.
The beginning of the next chapter in the story.

The new billing method has also created new possibilities for EV chargers.
Under the previous system, there was little profit for installers, and it was mainly used for attracting customers or as a promotional tool.
'If we can establish a billing model independent of NCS, wouldn’t it become an investment?'
For everyone to want to install rapid chargers, the chargers must generate profit for the installers.
With 'FLASH,' installers are able to set their own pricing freely.

Furthermore, we aim to use EV chargers to revitalize depopulated areas in the future.
Even EV owners who usually charge at home need charging facilities when they travel long distances.
By installing EV chargers, there is potential to revitalize rural areas.
There is a demand for charging facilities specifically in depopulated regions.
Additionally, there are benefits such as utilizing idle land and being able to install the chargers without being constrained by location.

"If a positive cycle is established, wouldn’t EVs spread even further throughout Japan, completing Japan’s transformation into an environmental powerhouse?"

We will continue to think about and pursue what we can do for a better future.