FLO is improving EV charging infrastructure

The lack of charging infrastructure poses a major barrier to entry for those looking to convert gasoline-powered vehicles to electric vehicles.

This process is an essential part of the fight against climate change and, fortunately, it is becoming easier and easier to implement. As of July 2023, the United States has installed more than 160,000 charging stations across the country, many of which are located in urban centers. One company that supports this is FLO. Founded by Louis Tremblay, FLO seeks to build a robust electric vehicle charging infrastructure that will create a reliable network that gets drivers where they need to go.

Tremblay took the time to tell us about his company and the process of developing such technology. “We didn’t put points on the map like many did, but we deployed a reliable network, a network you can always count on, and that’s what I’m most proud of.”

The Quebec company was launched 15 years ago, and fundraising was much more difficult then because the market for electric vehicles was undefined. Since then, however, the company has raised more than $334.4 million and become the largest electric vehicle charging provider in Canada.

Collaborations with stakeholders have also proven to be important to the company. “I learned that it is very important for our company to work with everyone,” Tremblay said. “At some point, there needs to be a price on carbon. »

Right now, product adoption is a priority for FLO, mainly because the company says it’s focused on its climate mission. It develops software and hardware products to ensure its ability to control the user experience from top to bottom.

“Hardware is important because it’s the infrastructure that lasts (and) the software has to provide a great experience,” Tremblay said.

FLO is also vertically integrated, which allows it to manufacture its own parts. It aims to keep chargers up to date and has a suite of charging software that provides valuable data to and about drivers. For example, station owners can view a charger’s diagnostics, integrate flexible billing, or get data reports.

One of FLO’s first customers in the United States was actually New York City. In Found, Tremblay talked about working with the city and matching each neighborhood’s aesthetic. He also spoke about his leadership style and creating a competitive work culture.

“I’m really passionate about having a business that generates revenue, that generates profitability, that grows,” Tremblay said. “But also how can we create an environment where it is pleasant to work, where we perform together, where we take care of each other. »