Charging Coach

Thesis project by Xudan Lu

Academic year

2025-2026

An intelligent interface to reduce charging anxiety during electric journeys

Charging Coach investigates charging anxiety in electric vehicles, exploring how range management and charging uncertainty can generate stress, loss of control and cognitive overload during long-distance journeys. Based on the principles of Calm Technology and Anticipatory AI, the thesis reimagines the in-vehicle HMI not as a passive data display, but as a predictive and reassuring support system for the driving experience.
 

The project develops an integrated system for Tesla vehicles, supporting users across the different phases of the journey: pre-trip planning, on-the-road guidance, mid-trip charging and final arrival. Through the Adaptive Energy Halo Arc, proactive recommendations, dynamic charging-station reservation and post-trip review, Charging Coach transforms complex data into intuitive guidance, reducing cognitive load and strengthening trust between driver, vehicle and infrastructure.

Supervisor: Andrea Pinchi
Co-supervisor: Alice Mela