The key to making the EV driver happy is creating a convenient EV charging experience. Could it get any easier than the charging process starting as soon as the EV driver plugs the charging cable into the EV? Hardly. At present, AutoCharge and ISO 15118 Plug & Charge (PnC) are the two technologies in use for this purpose.
Which one should you choose as a CPO or EMSP to make the EV charging as hassle-free as possible?
In comparison to Tesla's proprietary charging technology, both AutoCharge and ISO 15118 PnC offer alternative solutions for simplifying the EV charging process where the EV and the charging station recognize each other automatically, allowing the charging session to begin without the need for added authentication steps, such as using an RFID card, app, or entering a PIN.
AutoCharge simplifies the EV charging process by automatically authorizing charging session when the cable is plugged into the vehicle. When connected, the EV sends a unique vehicle identifier to the charger, which is validated with the CPMS system.
ISO 15118 PnC is a standardized communication protocol that uses digital certificates and public key infrastructures (PKIs) to ensure secure information exchange and authentication between EVs and charging stations, enabling automated and secure charging sessions.
Pretty similar, but the devil is in the details. Let’s take a closer look at the differences.
Authentication logic
AutoCharge and ISO 15118 PnC differ primarily in their authentication methods. AutoCharge uses the vehicle’s unique identifier, like the vehicle identification number (VIN), for quick authentication, making the user experience seamless as charging starts immediately when plugged in. ISO 15118 PnC employs digital certificates, offering higher security through end-to-end encryption.
Security
Security aspects derive directly from the authentication logic. AutoCharge, using vehicle MAC addresses, provides security comparable to RFID cards but is less robust than ISO 15118 PnC’s digital certificates, which ensure superior protection against unauthorized access.
Charging initiation speed
In terms of speed, AutoCharge initiates charging faster due to its straightforward process, enhancing user convenience. ISO 15118 PnC, while slightly slower due to certificate exchange, offers a fully automated experience once set up.
Compatibility and adoption
AutoCharge works with OCPP 1.6 and higher but requires specific support from both the EV and the charging station. ISO 15118 PnC, though more complex to implement, ensures broader industry adoption due to its standardized protocol. The initial setup process for AutoCharge involves registering the vehicle with the charging network, making future sessions seamless. ISO 15118 PnC requires compatibility checks, digital certificate provisioning, and service activation through the EV’s infotainment system or a mobile app, ensuring secure and automated sessions.
In conclusion, both AutoCharge and ISO 15118 PnC offer significant advancements in simplifying and automating the EV charging process. While Autocharge provides a more straightforward implementation and compatibility with existing systems, ISO 15118 PnC offers enhanced security features and enables several functionalities from payments to energy management that will become critical for EV charging infrastructure development.
AutoCharge serves as a good transitional solution, bridging the gap between varying levels of support for charging protocols and standards. It provides a practical and efficient charging solution while paving the way for broader adoption of standardized protocols like ISO 15118 in the future.
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