Designing Ubiquiti’s EV Charger System
Defined cross-platform experiences across hardware, web, and mobile interfaces to support both EV users and enterprise administrators.
Overview
This was a 0-to-1 initiative to launch Ubiquiti’s first EV charging solution, built as a cross-platform system serving both everyday drivers and enterprise site operators. Starting from a blank slate, I led the definition of the product experience, crafted interaction models tailored to different user roles, and shaped a product narrative centered on simplicity, scalability, and connectivity.
The design evolved through real hardware testing, internal feedback loops, and iterative refinement based on user insights. The result is a fully integrated solution that spans the charger’s UI, mobile apps, and web management tools.
The solution has now powered over 1,000 enterprise deployments worldwide and facilitated more than 350,000 hours of EV charging, helping businesses scale their charging infrastructure with confidence.
My Role
- Served as the Design Lead for this product line, responsible for UX strategy and execution across mobile (EV drivers and site admins), web management tools, and the charger’s embedded touchscreen interface.
- Collaborated with PMs, engineers (firmware, frontend, backend, and mobile), and CX specialists.
- Led 2 designers to refine visuals and ensure design consistency across platforms and form factors.
Background
Ubiquiti provides professional-grade enterprise solutions across networking, surveillance, and access control. Its core products include routers, switches, Wi-Fi access points, IP cameras, and door systems — all designed to be self-managed and centrally controlled through its UniFi Controller platform, without relying on third-party operators or subscriptions.
To expand this ecosystem, the company set out to enter the EV charging space and develop a charger product that integrates natively into its existing infrastructure.
Most competitors design their UX around account creation, billing, and session tracking, reflecting their bundled service models. Since our product doesn't rely on these layers, we needed to rethink the entry point and core interaction flow.
UX Challenge
The hardware’s form factor and specifications were already finalized (Android-based, 10.1-inch touch display), but the product had no defined user experience, usage flows, or strategic direction. I joined the project to establish the UX foundation from scratch.
My Key Challenges
- Designing across charger UI, mobile app, and web dashboard with consistent logic and experience
- Supporting both enterprise administrators and casual end users within a self-managed system
- Leveraging the on-device screen and camera to enhance feedback, guidance, and setup flow
- Aligning new interactions with Ubiquiti’s existing design standards and deployment models
- Building a scalable framework to support future charger variants and features
Competitive Research
An analysis of interaction patterns and user assumptions across leading EV charging systems.
I analyzed several leading U.S. providers, including ChargePoint, Tesla, EVgo, Electrify America, and Blink. I focused on how each product used its on-device interface, the types of user interactions supported, and the assumptions made about user familiarity and context.
References gathered from online sources and user-uploaded content, organized in FigJam for internal discussion and comparison.
Users & Roles Definition
To design a charging system that works across enterprise environments, I first defined the key user roles involved and their distinct responsibilities.
These roles informed how interactions, access control, and system behavior were designed across different scenarios.
Deployment Scenarios
I grouped deployment environments into three primary categories based on access level and usage context.Each scenario introduces different expectations around who can use the charger, how access is controlled, and how the system should behave.
Chargers may be installed in private environments, such as gated parking areas or small garages, where access is restricted and usage is predictable.In public environments, like large retail parking lots, chargers must support open access and clear guidance for first-time users.
Semi-private environments, such as office buildings, sit between the two, requiring controlled access while still supporting frequent, repeat use by employees.
These scenarios later informed the design of multiple charging modes and access rules.
Concept Development
Based on the different deployment scenarios and access requirements, I explored how charging behavior could be adapted through configurable activation modes.
The goal was to allow a single hardware system to support both open and controlled environments through software and interaction design.
To support these different scenarios, I introduced the concept of configurable charging modes.Each mode represents a different balance between accessibility and control, allowing admins to tailor how a charger is used based on the site’s context and operational needs.
In the first version, I designed four charging modes: Plug & Charge, QR Code, UniFi Identity App, and No Access.Admins can configure the preferred mode for each charger through the UniFi Console, enabling the same hardware to adapt to a wide range of deployment environments.
Admins can configure the charging mode for each adopted charger based on their management needs.
In the first version, I designed four charging modes: Plug & Charge, QR Code, UniFi Identity App, and No Access.Admins can configure the preferred mode for each charger through the UniFi Console, enabling the same hardware to adapt to a wide range of deployment environments.
User Testing
After aligning the design concept with the CEO and internal stakeholders, I partnered with firmware and QA teams to build a proof of concept (POC) and rapidly iterate toward a testable version of the EV charger interface.
We released the initial version for internal and alpha user testing, collecting feedback through structured questionnaires and community discussions on Ubiquiti’s platform.
Collaborated with FW engineers and QA to test real user experiences on actual EV charger hardware.
Key feedback related to software and UX included
- Standalone charging supportSome users requested a simplified mode where the charger can function independently, without requiring connection to the UniFi Console. This was especially important for garages or parking lots where full network setup is impractical.
- Load management needsIn larger parking facilities, users highlighted the need for coordinated power control to avoid electrical overload and reduce operational costs. Chargers needed to intelligently share a common power source.
- Payment optionsIn addition to multiple authorization methods, users expressed interest in supporting payment features directly for EV owners.
After evaluating the timeline, the team decided to prioritize standalone mode and load management first. Payment options were more complex and required deeper discussion, so we placed them in the second phase of the roadmap.
First Release Design
After validating the core concepts through user interviews and early testing, we finalized the first release design of the EV charger experience. This version focused on addressing the most critical user needs and delivering a stable, deployable system for real-world use.
The following designs highlight key features and experience decisions that were shipped as part of the first release.
The load management view shows real-time charging activity and visualizes how power is distributed across chargers using a topology-based layout.
Defined idle UI states by unlock method and surfaced charging info to drivers based on user needs and feasibility.
Identity App
Designed for EV drivers, including employees and visitors, to locate and access chargers assigned by the admin via Bluetooth.
Connect App
Designed for site admins to monitor device status, view usage data, and configure settings, including access schedules and output levels.
The device side panel was refined in the first release to present clearer and more complete status information, allowing admins to quickly understand each charger’s current state and charging mode at a glance.
The statistics view helps admins monitor overall site usage by aggregating historical data such as energy consumption, charging sessions, and utilization trends across all chargers.
Leveraged the screen capabilities to offer an optional feature that plays slideshow or video-type digital signage when the device is idle and not in use.
Designing Beyond Launch
Following launch, our team continued expanding the product’s features and value. Among the most anticipated additions were a built-in payment system and a more accessible hardware variant, EV Station Lite.
Payment System
To support EV charging payments, we partnered with a third-party provider that allowed site owners to apply for merchant accounts. I designed the admin flow for payment onboarding, including merchant application pages, pricing configuration, and the card payment flow for end users.
EV Station Lite
Based on insights from the first-generation launch, Ubiquiti introduced a more affordable variant, EV Station Lite, designed for use cases that didn’t require a built-in screen or camera. I was responsible for maintaining design consistency across mobile and web interfaces, ensuring a seamless user experience across the product line. The on-device interface also followed the same visual and interaction principles to reflect Ubiquiti’s brand identity.
Impact
As a hardware-focused enterprise product, the EV Station system has been deployed across 1,000+ enterprise sites, delivering over 350,000 cumulative charging hours to EV drivers., with overwhelmingly positive feedback—from both users and executive leadership.
Selected NPS survey comments from enterprise users:
- “Just keep up the good work. You're always coming up with awesome new ideas.” – ★ 10/10, United States
- “It works and is very user friendly.” – ★ 10/10, United Kingdom
- “Amazing enhancement! You're doing great, guys!!” – ★ 10/10, United States
- “Ease of use.” – ★ 9/10, United States
- “It's becoming a platform that exceeds its original architecture.” – ★ 10/10, United Kingdom
Direct feedback from Ubiquiti’s CEO:
“I’m using EV Station Pro and it is a great experience.”
YouTube Reviews & Hands-on Impressions
Several YouTubers shared hands-on experiences with the EV Station, highlighting its intuitive interface and seamless installation process. These real-world reviews not only praised the user experience but also helped surface additional needs and opportunities for future improvement.
© 2025 Mason Chang.
Designing Ubiquiti’s EV Charger System
Defined cross-platform experiences across hardware, web, and mobile interfaces to support both EV users and enterprise administrators.
Overview
This was a 0-to-1 initiative to launch Ubiquiti’s first EV charging solution, built as a cross-platform system serving both everyday drivers and enterprise site operators. Starting from a blank slate, I led the definition of the product experience, crafted interaction models tailored to different user roles, and shaped a product narrative centered on simplicity, scalability, and connectivity.
The design evolved through real hardware testing, internal feedback loops, and iterative refinement based on user insights. The result is a fully integrated solution that spans the charger’s UI, mobile apps, and web management tools.
The solution has now powered over 1,000 enterprise deployments worldwide and facilitated more than 350,000 hours of EV charging, helping businesses scale their charging infrastructure with confidence.
My Role
- Served as the Design Lead for this product line, responsible for UX strategy and execution across mobile (EV drivers and site admins), web management tools, and the charger’s embedded touchscreen interface.
- Collaborated with PMs, engineers (firmware, frontend, backend, and mobile), and CX specialists.
- Led 2 designers to refine visuals and ensure design consistency across platforms and form factors.
Background
Ubiquiti provides professional-grade enterprise solutions across networking, surveillance, and access control. Its core products include routers, switches, Wi-Fi access points, IP cameras, and door systems — all designed to be self-managed and centrally controlled through its UniFi Controller platform, without relying on third-party operators or subscriptions.
To expand this ecosystem, the company set out to enter the EV charging space and develop a charger product that integrates natively into its existing infrastructure.
Most competitors design their UX around account creation, billing, and session tracking, reflecting their bundled service models. Since our product doesn't rely on these layers, we needed to rethink the entry point and core interaction flow.
UX Challenge
The hardware’s form factor and specifications were already finalized (Android-based, 10.1-inch touch display), but the product had no defined user experience, usage flows, or strategic direction. I joined the project to establish the UX foundation from scratch.
My Key Challenges
- Designing across charger UI, mobile app, and web dashboard with consistent logic and experience
- Supporting both enterprise administrators and casual end users within a self-managed system
- Leveraging the on-device screen and camera to enhance feedback, guidance, and setup flow
- Aligning new interactions with Ubiquiti’s existing design standards and deployment models
- Building a scalable framework to support future charger variants and features
Competitive Research
An analysis of interaction patterns and user assumptions across leading EV charging systems.
I analyzed several leading U.S. providers, including ChargePoint, Tesla, EVgo, Electrify America, and Blink. I focused on how each product used its on-device interface, the types of user interactions supported, and the assumptions made about user familiarity and context.
References gathered from online sources and user-uploaded content, organized in FigJam for internal discussion and comparison.
Users & Roles Definition
To design a charging system that works across enterprise environments, I first defined the key user roles involved and their distinct responsibilities.
These roles informed how interactions, access control, and system behavior were designed across different scenarios.
Deployment Scenarios
I grouped deployment environments into three primary categories based on access level and usage context.Each scenario introduces different expectations around who can use the charger, how access is controlled, and how the system should behave.
Chargers may be installed in private environments, such as gated parking areas or small garages, where access is restricted and usage is predictable.In public environments, like large retail parking lots, chargers must support open access and clear guidance for first-time users.
Semi-private environments, such as office buildings, sit between the two, requiring controlled access while still supporting frequent, repeat use by employees.
These scenarios later informed the design of multiple charging modes and access rules.
Concept Development
Based on the different deployment scenarios and access requirements, I explored how charging behavior could be adapted through configurable activation modes.
The goal was to allow a single hardware system to support both open and controlled environments through software and interaction design.
To support these different scenarios, I introduced the concept of configurable charging modes.Each mode represents a different balance between accessibility and control, allowing admins to tailor how a charger is used based on the site’s context and operational needs.
In the first version, I designed four charging modes: Plug & Charge, QR Code, UniFi Identity App, and No Access.Admins can configure the preferred mode for each charger through the UniFi Console, enabling the same hardware to adapt to a wide range of deployment environments.
Admins can configure the charging mode for each adopted charger based on their management needs.
In the first version, I designed four charging modes: Plug & Charge, QR Code, UniFi Identity App, and No Access.Admins can configure the preferred mode for each charger through the UniFi Console, enabling the same hardware to adapt to a wide range of deployment environments.
User Testing
After aligning the design concept with the CEO and internal stakeholders, I partnered with firmware and QA teams to build a proof of concept (POC) and rapidly iterate toward a testable version of the EV charger interface.
We released the initial version for internal and alpha user testing, collecting feedback through structured questionnaires and community discussions on Ubiquiti’s platform.
Collaborated with FW engineers and QA to test real user experiences on actual EV charger hardware.
Key feedback related to software and UX included
- Standalone charging supportSome users requested a simplified mode where the charger can function independently, without requiring connection to the UniFi Console. This was especially important for garages or parking lots where full network setup is impractical.
- Load management needsIn larger parking facilities, users highlighted the need for coordinated power control to avoid electrical overload and reduce operational costs. Chargers needed to intelligently share a common power source.
- Payment optionsIn addition to multiple authorization methods, users expressed interest in supporting payment features directly for EV owners.
After evaluating the timeline, the team decided to prioritize standalone mode and load management first. Payment options were more complex and required deeper discussion, so we placed them in the second phase of the roadmap.
First Release Design
After validating the core concepts through user interviews and early testing, we finalized the first release design of the EV charger experience. This version focused on addressing the most critical user needs and delivering a stable, deployable system for real-world use.
The following designs highlight key features and experience decisions that were shipped as part of the first release.
The load management view shows real-time charging activity and visualizes how power is distributed across chargers using a topology-based layout.
Defined idle UI states by unlock method and surfaced charging info to drivers based on user needs and feasibility.
Identity App
Designed for EV drivers, including employees and visitors, to locate and access chargers assigned by the admin via Bluetooth.
Connect App
Designed for site admins to monitor device status, view usage data, and configure settings, including access schedules and output levels.
The device side panel was refined in the first release to present clearer and more complete status information, allowing admins to quickly understand each charger’s current state and charging mode at a glance.
The statistics view helps admins monitor overall site usage by aggregating historical data such as energy consumption, charging sessions, and utilization trends across all chargers.
Leveraged the screen capabilities to offer an optional feature that plays slideshow or video-type digital signage when the device is idle and not in use.
Designing Beyond Launch
Following launch, our team continued expanding the product’s features and value. Among the most anticipated additions were a built-in payment system and a more accessible hardware variant, EV Station Lite.
Payment System
To support EV charging payments, we partnered with a third-party provider that allowed site owners to apply for merchant accounts. I designed the admin flow for payment onboarding, including merchant application pages, pricing configuration, and the card payment flow for end users.
EV Station Lite
Based on insights from the first-generation launch, Ubiquiti introduced a more affordable variant, EV Station Lite, designed for use cases that didn’t require a built-in screen or camera. I was responsible for maintaining design consistency across mobile and web interfaces, ensuring a seamless user experience across the product line. The on-device interface also followed the same visual and interaction principles to reflect Ubiquiti’s brand identity.
Impact
As a hardware-focused enterprise product, the EV Station system has been deployed across 1,000+ enterprise sites, delivering over 350,000 cumulative charging hours to EV drivers., with overwhelmingly positive feedback—from both users and executive leadership.
Selected NPS survey comments from enterprise users:
- “Just keep up the good work. You're always coming up with awesome new ideas.” – ★ 10/10, United States
- “It works and is very user friendly.” – ★ 10/10, United Kingdom
- “Amazing enhancement! You're doing great, guys!!” – ★ 10/10, United States
- “Ease of use.” – ★ 9/10, United States
- “It's becoming a platform that exceeds its original architecture.” – ★ 10/10, United Kingdom
Direct feedback from Ubiquiti’s CEO:
“I’m using EV Station Pro and it is a great experience.”
YouTube Reviews & Hands-on Impressions
Several YouTubers shared hands-on experiences with the EV Station, highlighting its intuitive interface and seamless installation process. These real-world reviews not only praised the user experience but also helped surface additional needs and opportunities for future improvement.
© 2025 Mason Chang. All Rights Reserved.
Designing Ubiquiti’s EV Charger System
Defined cross-platform experiences across hardware, web, and mobile interfaces to support both EV users and enterprise administrators.
Overview
This was a 0-to-1 initiative to launch Ubiquiti’s first EV charging solution, built as a cross-platform system serving both everyday drivers and enterprise site operators. Starting from a blank slate, I led the definition of the product experience, crafted interaction models tailored to different user roles, and shaped a product narrative centered on simplicity, scalability, and connectivity.
The design evolved through real hardware testing, internal feedback loops, and iterative refinement based on user insights. The result is a fully integrated solution that spans the charger’s UI, mobile apps, and web management tools.
The solution has now powered over 1,000 enterprise deployments worldwide and facilitated more than 350,000 hours of EV charging, helping businesses scale their charging infrastructure with confidence.
My Role
- Served as the Design Lead for this product line, responsible for UX strategy and execution across mobile (EV drivers and site admins), web management tools, and the charger’s embedded touchscreen interface.
- Collaborated with PMs, engineers (firmware, frontend, backend, and mobile), and CX specialists.
- Led 2 designers to refine visuals and ensure design consistency across platforms and form factors.
Background
Ubiquiti provides professional-grade enterprise solutions across networking, surveillance, and access control. Its core products include routers, switches, Wi-Fi access points, IP cameras, and door systems — all designed to be self-managed and centrally controlled through its UniFi Controller platform, without relying on third-party operators or subscriptions.
To expand this ecosystem, the company set out to enter the EV charging space and develop a charger product that integrates natively into its existing infrastructure.
Most competitors design their UX around account creation, billing, and session tracking, reflecting their bundled service models. Since our product doesn't rely on these layers, we needed to rethink the entry point and core interaction flow.
UX Challenge
The hardware’s form factor and specifications were already finalized (Android-based, 10.1-inch touch display), but the product had no defined user experience, usage flows, or strategic direction. I joined the project to establish the UX foundation from scratch.
My Key Challenges
- Designing across charger UI, mobile app, and web dashboard with consistent logic and experience
- Supporting both enterprise administrators and casual end users within a self-managed system
- Leveraging the on-device screen and camera to enhance feedback, guidance, and setup flow
- Aligning new interactions with Ubiquiti’s existing design standards and deployment models
- Building a scalable framework to support future charger variants and features
Competitive Research
An analysis of interaction patterns and user assumptions across leading EV charging systems.
I analyzed several leading U.S. providers, including ChargePoint, Tesla, EVgo, Electrify America, and Blink. I focused on how each product used its on-device interface, the types of user interactions supported, and the assumptions made about user familiarity and context.
References gathered from online sources and user-uploaded content, organized in FigJam for internal discussion and comparison.
Users & Roles Definition
To design a charging system that works across enterprise environments, I first defined the key user roles involved and their distinct responsibilities.
These roles informed how interactions, access control, and system behavior were designed across different scenarios.
Deployment Scenarios
I grouped deployment environments into three primary categories based on access level and usage context.Each scenario introduces different expectations around who can use the charger, how access is controlled, and how the system should behave.
Chargers may be installed in private environments, such as gated parking areas or small garages, where access is restricted and usage is predictable.In public environments, like large retail parking lots, chargers must support open access and clear guidance for first-time users.
Semi-private environments, such as office buildings, sit between the two, requiring controlled access while still supporting frequent, repeat use by employees.
These scenarios later informed the design of multiple charging modes and access rules.
Concept Development
Based on the different deployment scenarios and access requirements, I explored how charging behavior could be adapted through configurable activation modes.
The goal was to allow a single hardware system to support both open and controlled environments through software and interaction design.
To support these different scenarios, I introduced the concept of configurable charging modes.Each mode represents a different balance between accessibility and control, allowing admins to tailor how a charger is used based on the site’s context and operational needs.
Admins can configure the charging mode for each adopted charger based on their management needs.
In the first version, I designed four charging modes: Plug & Charge, QR Code, UniFi Identity App, and No Access.Admins can configure the preferred mode for each charger through the UniFi Console, enabling the same hardware to adapt to a wide range of deployment environments.
User Testing
After aligning the design concept with the CEO and internal stakeholders, I partnered with firmware and QA teams to build a proof of concept (POC) and rapidly iterate toward a testable version of the EV charger interface.
We released the initial version for internal and alpha user testing, collecting feedback through structured questionnaires and community discussions on Ubiquiti’s platform.
Collaborated with FW engineers and QA to test real user experiences on actual EV charger hardware.
Key feedback related to software and UX included
- Standalone charging supportSome users requested a simplified mode where the charger can function independently, without requiring connection to the UniFi Console. This was especially important for garages or parking lots where full network setup is impractical.
- Load management needsIn larger parking facilities, users highlighted the need for coordinated power control to avoid electrical overload and reduce operational costs. Chargers needed to intelligently share a common power source.
- Payment optionsIn addition to multiple authorization methods, users expressed interest in supporting payment features directly for EV owners.
After evaluating the timeline, the team decided to prioritize standalone mode and load management first. Payment options were more complex and required deeper discussion, so we placed them in the second phase of the roadmap.
First Release Design
After validating the core concepts through user interviews and early testing, we finalized the first release design of the EV charger experience. This version focused on addressing the most critical user needs and delivering a stable, deployable system for real-world use.
The following designs highlight key features and experience decisions that were shipped as part of the first release.
The load management view shows real-time charging activity and visualizes how power is distributed across chargers using a topology-based layout.
Defined idle UI states by unlock method and surfaced charging info to drivers based on user needs and feasibility.
Identity App
Designed for EV drivers, including employees and visitors, to locate and access chargers assigned by the admin via Bluetooth.
Connect App
Designed for site admins to monitor device status, view usage data, and configure settings, including access schedules and output levels.
The device side panel was refined in the first release to present clearer and more complete status information, allowing admins to quickly understand each charger’s current state and charging mode at a glance.
The statistics view helps admins monitor overall site usage by aggregating historical data such as energy consumption, charging sessions, and utilization trends across all chargers.
Leveraged the screen capabilities to offer an optional feature that plays slideshow or video-type digital signage when the device is idle and not in use.
Designing Beyond Launch
Following launch, our team continued expanding the product’s features and value. Among the most anticipated additions were a built-in payment system and a more accessible hardware variant, EV Station Lite.
Payment System
To support EV charging payments, we partnered with a third-party provider that allowed site owners to apply for merchant accounts. I designed the admin flow for payment onboarding, including merchant application pages, pricing configuration, and the card payment flow for end users.
EV Station Lite
Based on insights from the first-generation launch, Ubiquiti introduced a more affordable variant, EV Station Lite, designed for use cases that didn’t require a built-in screen or camera. I was responsible for maintaining design consistency across mobile and web interfaces, ensuring a seamless user experience across the product line. The on-device interface also followed the same visual and interaction principles to reflect Ubiquiti’s brand identity.
Impact
As a hardware-focused enterprise product, the EV Station system has been deployed across 1,000+ enterprise sites, delivering over 350,000 cumulative charging hours to EV drivers., with overwhelmingly positive feedback—from both users and executive leadership.
Selected NPS survey comments from enterprise users:
- “Just keep up the good work. You're always coming up with awesome new ideas.” – ★ 10/10, United States
- “It works and is very user friendly.” – ★ 10/10, United Kingdom
- “Amazing enhancement! You're doing great, guys!!” – ★ 10/10, United States
- “Ease of use.” – ★ 9/10, United States
- “It's becoming a platform that exceeds its original architecture.” – ★ 10/10, United Kingdom
Direct feedback from Ubiquiti’s CEO:
“I’m using EV Station Pro and it is a great experience.”
YouTube Reviews & Hands-on Impressions
Several YouTubers shared hands-on experiences with the EV Station, highlighting its intuitive interface and seamless installation process. These real-world reviews not only praised the user experience but also helped surface additional needs and opportunities for future improvement.
© 2025 Mason Chang. All Rights Reserved.