With the rapid increase in carbon footprint across the globe, enhancing the efficiency in energy consumption is one of the key pillars in tackling the imminent threat of climate change. Intelligent charging systems (ICS) for electric vehicles (EV) can play a key role in achieving the said goal, by revolutionizing the way charging stations use to operate.
What is Intelligent Charging?
Intelligent Charging refers to an eco-system where EVs and charging stations share a data connection, and form a symbiosis with the integrated cloud connectivity. With smartness embedded, the modularity of the system makes it adaptable with the objective of power optimization for all the stakeholders. It automatically adjusts the power supply to the charging stations based upon various factors e.g., local electricity production, consumption, and number of EVs being charged at a single point in time.
The functionality of the Intelligent Charging System
ICS are equipped with user-friendly interfaces on smartphones (both for the EVs and the charging station owners), thus enabling them to optimize the usage and efficiency: while owners can remotely access the data of the cars being charged at the charging stations and can change the output with a flick of a touch, EVs can keep a record of the charging metrics which can help them maintain the cars promptly. These systems are plug-and-play solutions where RFID technology is utilized and the process entails three simple steps: identification, charging, and billing. Roaming is generally activated in smart systems where consumers can use multiple charging stations on different localities with a single account. Seamless vehicle charging followed by automatic billing on pre-defined rates certainly provides ease of mind to the end consumers.
Use-Cases of Intelligent Charging
Specifically in the developed world, many business enterprises offer ICS platforms: Virta, headquartered in Finland, operates its smart electric vehicle charging platform in over 30 countries. With a focus on B2B marketing, it provides a one-stop shop for charging station set-up, charging station maintenance, IT infrastructure, energy management, payment and invoicing and roaming integrations, etc. Similarly, iCS UK provides the solution for smart charging with intelligent load management, data reporting, mapping, roaming, and billing functionality.
Future of Intelligent Charging – Vehicle to Grid (V2G) Connectivity
As the need to recharge the vehicles is increasing owing to the augmented penetration, there exists a great opportunity to utilize these cars for vehicle-to-grid (V2G) connectivity via ICS. This futuristic approach can certainly make electric cars serve as mini electric storage facilities, which can transfer the power to the grid as and when required. It will not only help stabilize the electric grids but also present an opportunity for the car owners to earn some additional revenue.
Conclusion
Overall, ICS provides end to end connectivity for all the relevant stakeholders as far as the charging of vehicles is concerned. It will not only help achieve sustainable development but also has the ability to revolutionize electric charging and dynamic load management arrangements, thus lasting positive impacts on the environment as well as society.
