Recargo, Inc.

Recargo, Inc. operates as a specialized e-mobility software and data services company, primarily focused on the electric vehicle (EV) market. Founded in 2009 by Brian Kariger, the company established itself by developing mobile applications and services designed to improve the experience of EV drivers. A significant milestone in its history was the 2013 merger with Xatori, Inc., a company founded by early Tesla engineer Forrest North. This merger consolidated their resources and user bases, bringing Xatori's popular PlugShare app under the Recargo umbrella, with Kariger continuing as CEO and North becoming COO.

The company's flagship product is PlugShare, a free mobile and web application that serves as a comprehensive, crowdsourced map of EV charging stations worldwide. The platform allows the global community of EV drivers to locate public and private charging stations, view details like charger type and availability, and read driver reviews and tips. Users contribute to the platform's accuracy by adding new station locations, photos, and real-time status updates, creating a dynamic and extensive database. Beyond station location, the app includes features like a trip planner to map out long-distance journeys with charging stops and 'Pay with PlugShare' for seamless mobile payments at participating networks.

Recargo’s business model extends beyond its consumer-facing app. The company generates revenue by licensing its data and offering advisory services to various industry stakeholders. Its client base includes automakers, charging networks, and utilities who leverage Recargo's data for driver navigation systems, mobile apps, and research. The company's research division, PlugInsights, provides detailed reports and strategic analysis based on data from its large panel of EV drivers. In July 2021, Recargo was acquired by EVgo, a major public fast-charging network, for $25 million. Despite the acquisition, Recargo continues to operate as a wholly-owned subsidiary, maintaining the neutrality of its PlugShare platform, which remains open to all charging networks.

Keywords: Recargo, PlugShare, EV charging, electric vehicle, e-mobility, charging station map, EV driver app, charging station locator, EV trip planner, Pay with PlugShare, EV data services, EV market research, PlugInsights, Brian Kariger, Forrest North, EVgo, automotive software, cleantech, sustainable transportation, charging infrastructure