Kitchener Startup Aiming to Revitalize North America’s Flawed EV Infrastructure

Clockwork: Revolutionizing EV Charging in Canada

Kitchener-based startup, Clockwork, is tackling the critical issue of unreliability in electric vehicle (EV) charging networks through innovative software solutions. Co-founders Andrea Curry and Jennifer Buchanan emphasize the common frustrations drivers face, comparing it to arriving at a gas station only to find no fuel available. Such inconsistencies in EV charging can lead to extended wait times, with one in four attempts to charge an EV resulting in failure.

Current EV charging infrastructure in Canada is fragmented, with various operators complicating the diagnosis and resolution of issues when stations fail. Clockwork's aim is to enhance the user experience by enabling what Curry describes as “first charge success,” ensuring that drivers can rely on a seamless charging process every time.

Clockwork’s software platform meticulously monitors and aggregates data from multiple charging stations, employing automated issue detection to identify and resolve problems efficiently. “We’re sending service techs with all the information they need,” Curry notes, substantiating their commitment to swift and effective resolution during service calls.

The inception of Clockwork traces back to 2024, evolving from the consulting efforts of Curry and Buchanan under their initial company, First Harmonic Group. Their focus was on acquiring deep insights into the EV charging landscape by engaging directly with stakeholders, including station owners, operators, and drivers. This groundwork laid the foundation for their transition back into software development, driven by the need to solve pressing problems identified during their exploratory phase, which included an extensive road trip across Canada in an all-electric Volkswagen ID.4 SUV.

This journey illuminated the challenges EV drivers face, highlighting how frustrating the charging experience can be. Reflecting on their road trip, they noted how insights gained from traveling across provinces helped them identify the core issues plaguing the EV charging experience. “What started on the side of the road has turned into something tangible,” Buchanan remarked, signifying their evolution into a dedicated software developer with a clear mission.

By launching Clockwork in Waterloo Region, the pair leveraged the area’s vibrant tech ecosystem, characterized by interconnectedness and mutual support. They believe that the region is an ideal hub for innovation, fostering an environment where everyone encourages each other's success.

As Canada pushes toward a climate-conscious future, the adoption of electric vehicles becomes increasingly imperative. With over 250,000 EVs projected to be on Canadian roads by 2024, the reliability of the charging network is crucial. Automakers like Tesla have streamlined the charging experience, and Curry expresses a desire for non-Tesla drivers to enjoy a similarly frictionless experience.

Inconsistent charging infrastructure poses a significant hurdle for broader EV adoption. Both Curry and Buchanan stress the need for a charging experience that seamlessly mirrors the convenience of home charging. Achieving reliability in public charging will not only facilitate the growth of the EV market but also make adopting electric vehicles a more appealing option for consumers.

In conclusion, Clockwork's commitment to innovation and practical solutions places them at the forefront of resolving chronic reliability issues within Canada’s EV charging ecosystem, setting the stage for a smoother transition to a sustainable future.