Integration of Smartphone Apps into EVCC

[Krusty1977]

Hello everyone,

I have a BMW iX1 but unfortunately no wallbox, only a “Flexible Fast Charger,” which is a regular, non-smart high-voltage charger (without Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection). I can’t change this situation because I can’t connect my garage to the network.

Currently, I optimize my charging power using Home Assistant automations. Example: If the solar power exceeds 6 kW, I start the charging process via the “BMW Connected Drive” Home Assistant integration with 6A. This works over the internet, just like starting the charging process via my smartphone. If the solar power increases to, for example, 8 kW, another Home Assistant automation adjusts the BMW’s charging power from 6A to 10A. The same process happens in reverse at the end of the day.

This setup is already quite effective. However, if someone starts the dryer, dishwasher, and shower at the same time, the solar power is no longer sufficient, and the battery in the basement gets drained. This could probably be optimized even further in Home Assistant.

It would be nice if EVCC would support manufacturers web portals / smartphone apps just like the home assistant integrations do this, so that you can start/stop the charging process and increase/decrease the Ampere depending on the yield coming from the solar roof so that it is also possible to integrate my car into EVCC when I don't have a smart wallbox with ethernet/wifi connection!

Any help will be highly appreciated!
Best regards,
Sebastian

[mfuchs1984]

Evcc is supporting the BMW API, so in theory, it could control charging via the CAR API. But when those APIs are used too much, they kick you out, so it is not working reliably with the necessary short control cycles. In addition, the flexible fast charger cannot tell evcc that your car is connected to it, so with only the BMW API information, evcc would control the charging even when your car is connected elsewhere.

[mfuchs1984]

https://docs.evcc.io/en/docs/devices/vehicles#bmw

[mfuchs1984]

This is for soc, climater, wakeup, ..., not charge control.

[Krusty1977]

and is there a way for charge control?

[mfuchs1984]

Not at the moment, but the API evcc implements allows it.

[Krusty1977]

so this would be a feature request?

[mfuchs1984]

In case you can't install a wallbox: there are also mobile controllable chargers that are supported by evcc, NRG Kick is an example.

[mfuchs1984]

Network is basically always possible, even when it is absolutely out of reach for wifi including outdoor repeaters, a mobile router is an option. It is just a matter of cost vs. benefit ;).

But the home assistant idea is not bad, it could even check the location, so charging will not be unintendedly controlled when charging outside. Resetting the maximum AC current to 16 could also happen based on location.

Apart from mqtt, the REST API could be used. In #18414, an example for a custom charger using the home assistant API can be found.

[SolarPower2024]

Sure, somehow it's always possible to get in the network. If really wanted. True.

Thanks for the hint, of course REST API is also possible, not limited to mqtt.

[Krusty1977]

I will add a location check. When the car and my home battery is full at the end of the day I am fine

maybe I also try the BMW api how long it takes as I am kicked out

[Krusty1977]

I added a location check to my home assistant automation....

[Krusty1977]

In case you can't install a wallbox: there are also mobile controllable chargers that are supported by evcc, NRG Kick is an example.

Hi, I just ordered a NRGKick… I Hope this device can be seamlessly integrated into EVCC