3G sunset: How to prepare your electric vehicle

In 2022, mobile network operators across North America and Europe will be switching off 3G data services to create more capacity for newer 5G technologies. This means that older models of electric vehicles, including Teslas from 2015 and earlier, will need to receive an upgrade in order to keep using Internet-connected services. That includes smart charging with the ev.energy app. Here are all the details you need to know.

When is the switch-off?

In the United States, the switch-off is underway. Verizon and AT&T have already begun switching off their 3G networks, with AT&T switching off all 3G services in February 2022. T-Mobile/Sprint will follow by April 2022.

In the United Kingdom, BT/EE will begin shutting down 3G services in 2022, with Vodafone following in 2023 and other networks yet to confirm shutdown dates.

In Germany, the 3G switch-off began in 2021 with Telekom Deutschland and Vodafone. Telefónica will also be shutting down its 3G network in 2022.

How will this impact smart charging with ev.energy?

The smart charging functionality from the ev.energy app uses an Internet connection to connect with your electric vehicle or charger. This allows us to use information, such as your tariff or how energy is being produced in your area, to provide the greenest and most affordable charge for your vehicle.

As this cannot be calculated without a connection, we’re unable to provide smart charging or show your charging stats in the app if your vehicle’s cellular network is switched off.

If you have connected a charger, you may still be able to use ev.energy services, but some functionality may be lost depending on your vehicle.

Will my vehicle be affected and what are the next steps?

Winding down of 3G networks will affect Audi, BMW, Chrysler, Ford, Nissan, Hyundai and Volkswagen (VW) vehicles. Visit our Help Section to get a full list of vehicles impacted by the 3G switch-off.

Tesla

Teslas built before June 2015 will be impacted. You will be able to confirm what cellular connection your Tesla is using by the connectivity status icon (shaped like bars) on the touchscreen in your vehicle. If “LTE” is displayed, no further action is required.

To upgrade the modem (the device which connects your vehicle to the network) replaced by Tesla directly, you can schedule a service appointment through your Tesla mobile app.

Audi

A3 e-tron models from 2016, 2017 and 2018 will be impacted. You will need to contact your local Audi dealership for further information.

BWM

All BMW models from 2017 and earlier are likely to be impacted by the 3G shutdown, but this is yet to be confirmed. Certain models should be eligible for a free upgrade, which BMW should contact you about directly. Be sure to check your email to avoid missing out.

Chrysler

Pacifica (2017) vehicles will be impacted by the change. Unlike other manufacturers, Chrysler will not be offering a hardware upgrade for this but are able to provide a 4G dongle instead. You’re advised to arrange this directly with your Chrysler dealership.

Ford

It’s not clear which Ford models will be impacted, but we expect it will be those on the MyFordMobile platform, including the C-MAX Energi, Focus and Fusion. It’s best to contact your Ford dealership to get information on this change.

Other model

Nissan Leaf (2015 and earlier), Hyundai Sonata (2016) and VW e-Golf (2019 and earlier) are also expected to be impacted by 3G network changes. You will need to get in touch with your local dealership for further information, as this has not been provided.

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Not discovered the ev.energy app yet? Upgrade your EV charging today by downloading the app on the Apple App Store or Google Play store.

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