EVesto Partners with Webfleet

EVesto Partners with Webfleet

EVesto is proud to announce its new partnership with Webfleet, Bridgestone’s globally trusted fleet management solution, to bring electric vehicle (EV) charging services to the Webfleet platform. Both teams have worked together to develop a seamless integration that enables fleet managers to add EV charging monitoring capabilities to their existing Webfleet fleet management solutions.

This integration leverages the industry-standard OCPI (Open Charge Point Interface) protocol to provide Webfleet users with comprehensive monitoring of their EV charging infrastructure. Fleet managers will now have a unified overview of their entire fleet, including real-time insights into vehicles and chargers.

This collaboration will help fleets transition smoothly to electric transportation, empowering them to manage EV operations efficiently and ensure fleet optimization.

The ability to monitor EV chargers directly within Webfleet will simplify the integration of e-mobility into fleet operations, allowing businesses to ensure reliable charging, streamline their processes and reduce administrative burdens.

Added Value for Fleet Managers

The integration between EVesto and Webfleet offers a proven and seamless solution based on open protocols. It allows fleet customers to quickly incorporate e-mobility assets into their existing fleet management systems. Fleet managers will benefit from a unified platform that handles vehicle telematics and EV charging infrastructure, resulting in greater transparency and operational efficiency.

Integrating Webfleet with EVesto enhances EV adoption in fleets, giving managers a unified view of assets. Webfleet remains the main hub for fleet managers, while EVesto handles charger operations seamlessly
Riccardo Becker
CMO of EVesto

Key Protocols that govern Electric vehicle (EV) charging

Key Protocols that govern Electric vehicle (EV) charging

Protocols are crucial for effective communication in the electric vehicle (EV) charging ecosystem. They ensure interoperability, standardization, and secure communication between various components. This article explores the significance of protocols and how EVesto utilizes them to deliver seamless and efficient charging solutions.

The Importance of Protocols in EV Charging

Protocols play a vital role in the operation of EVs and their charging infrastructure. They enable interoperability, ensuring effective communication between devices, systems, and networks. Protocols also provide a framework for standardization, guaranteeing compatibility between EVs, charging stations, and management systems from various manufacturers. Additionally, they define the implementation of functions and features, such as remote control and firmware updates.

Moreover, protocols incorporate security features to protect against unauthorized access and malicious attacks, ensuring the integrity of the charging process and user data. They also enhance the user experience by enabling roaming services and simplifying EV charging.

Here are some of the most important ones:

  1. Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP): This is a universal protocol for communication between charging stations and a central management system. It allows for remote control, firmware updates, session information, and more. There are several versions of OCPP, with 2.0.1 being the latest.
  2. IEC 61851 is an international standard for electric vehicle conductive charging systems. It defines the communication between the EV and the charging station for AC charging.
  3. ISO 15118: This international standard defines the communication between the EV and the charging station. It supports advanced features like Plug and Charge (PnC) and bi-directional charging (V2G).
  4. CHAdeMO: This is a DC charging standard that was developed in Japan. It supports both fast charging and bi-directional charging.
  5. Combined Charging System (CCS): This is a standard for DC fast charging developed by several major automobile manufacturers. It combines the AC and DC fast charging connectors into a single port on the vehicle.
  6. Tesla Supercharger: This is a proprietary DC fast charging protocol developed by Tesla. It is currently only compatible with Tesla vehicles.
  7. Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI): This protocol allows roaming services between different charging station networks. It enables EV drivers to use charging stations from different operators with a single subscription.
  8. OpenADR (Automated Demand Response): This is a standard for communication between utilities and customers to adjust power demand. It can be used in EV charging to shift charging times to periods of low electricity demand.
  9. The Open InterCharge Protocol (OICP): is a protocol developed by Hubject, a joint venture of several major companies, including BMW, Bosch, Daimler, and others. It was created to facilitate the interoperability of charging infrastructure and services for electric vehicles (EVs).OICP is primarily used in Europe and allows for the exchange of information between different charging station operators and e-mobility service providers.
  10. The eMobility Interoperation Protocol (eMIP): is an open protocol developed by GIREVE. It enables the transfer of data and services between an operator’s software platform and GIREVE’s platform. The protocol aims to enable roaming of charging services and provide access to a comprehensive charging point database.
  11. The Open Smart Charging Protocol (OSCP): is an open standard for communication between EV charging stations, management systems, and smart grid components, enabling smart charging, demand response, and grid integration.
  12. The Open Clearing House Protocol (OCHP): is an open standard for EV charging networks. It enables seamless roaming and billing between different charging operators. OCHP allows EV drivers to access stations from multiple operators using a single authentication and payment method.
  13. SAE J3400 Standard: This is a significant new development, representing a milestone for Tesla-developed connectors used in EV charging. The SAE J3400 standard marks a step towards defining the design, construction, and technical characteristics of the connectors and inlets used in EV charging. It aims to expand charging access for current and future EV drivers by moving the North American Charging Standard (NACS) connector towards an open industry standard. This initiative is expected to enhance interoperability and streamline the charging experience for EV drivers.
  14. NACS – North American Charging Standard: Introduced by Tesla and now adopted as NACS, this standard offers AC and DC charging capabilities in a single plug, with capacities exceeding those of the CCS standard. Major automakers, including Ford and General Motors, have announced plans to adopt NACS, indicating its significant impact on the industry. Vehicles compatible with NACS are anticipated to start rolling out in 2025, with adapters available for use in the meantime.

Protocols and standards specific to Europe for electric vehicle (EV) charging
There are a few other protocols specific to Europe that are next to the above-mentioned protocols.

  • IEC 62196: This is an international standard, but it’s particularly relevant in Europe. It defines the physical connectors used in EV charging. Type 2 connectors, specified in this standard, are the most common connectors used for EV charging in Europe.
  • IEC 61851-1: This standard is used worldwide but is very important in Europe. It defines the conductive charging system between the electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) and the EV, including the control functions and digital communication.
  • IEC 61851-23, -24: These standards define DC charging and the digital communication between the EV and the EVSE for DC charging.
  • EN 50604: This European standard defines safety requirements for exchangeable lithium batteries in light EVs.
  • EN 50498: This European standard applies to devices installed in EVs intended for driver interaction. It includes requirements for the user interface of EV charging stations.
  • European Directive 2014/94/EU: This directive sets out the minimum requirements for deploying alternative fuel infrastructure across Europe, including EV charging stations. It promotes the use of common standards and interoperability to facilitate the growth of EV charging infrastructure.

EVesto Leveraging Protocols for an Enhanced Charging Experience
EVesto recognizes the significance of protocols in delivering an enhanced charging experience. The platform’s core foundation is built around standard protocols such as Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP), Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI), and Open InterCharge Protocol (OICP).

EVesto’s connectivity layer, powered by OCPP, establishes seamless communication between chargers and EVesto’s central management system. This enables remote control, firmware updates, and session information, ensuring efficient charging processes. Additionally, EVesto’s Charge Point Management System (CPMS) supports ISO 15118, allowing advanced features like Plug and Charge (PnC).

The platform also leverages OICP to facilitate interoperability and information exchange with other charging infrastructure providers, enhancing the availability and accessibility of charging stations.

Protocols are essential in the EV charging ecosystem, ensuring compatibility, standardization, and secure communication. EVesto understands the importance of protocols and utilizes them to deliver an enhanced charging experience. By implementing industry-standard protocols such as OCPP, ISO 15118, and OICP, EVesto enables effective communication, advanced features, and interoperability. As the EV industry evolves, protocols will continue to drive innovation and shape the future of electric vehicle charging.

Harmonizing Electric Vehicles and Energy Systems

EVesto Partners with Webfleet

In a world swiftly pivoting towards electric vehicles (EVs), harmonizing EVs with our existing energy systems can’t be understated. As EV adoption surges, the onus falls on innovations within Smart Grid Technologies to ensure seamless integration. Charge point management software emerges as a critical player in addressing the multifaceted challenges that the integration of EVs into the power grid presents. There are several strategies and features that can be implemented in charge point management software to help tackle these issues.

The Impact of EVs on The Grid
The ascent of electric vehicles (EVs) heralds a new era of mobility but also presents challenges for our existing power grids. The surge in electricity demand due to EV charging can strain the grid, especially during peak hours. Moreover, the localized demand spikes can affect the distribution infrastructure, potentially leading to overloads and outages if managed properly. However, with smart grid technologies, these challenges can be transformed into opportunities.

How EVs and smart grid technologies interact:

  • Load Management: Smart charging mitigates grid overloading risks by scheduling charging during off-peak hours or redistributing the load.
  • Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) Integration: EVs act as mobile energy storage, feeding energy back into the grid during high-demand periods and charging during low demand.
  • Renewable Energy Integration: EVs absorb excess renewable energy, aiding in the creation of a resilient and sustainable energy ecosystem.
  • Infrastructure Upgrades: The growing EV adoption necessitates more charging stations and distribution network enhancements
  • Data Analytics and Predictive Maintenance: Predictive analytics optimize charging schedules and forecast demand, bolstering grid stability and reliability.

These interactions between EVs and smart grid technologies are vital for transitioning to a sustainable and electrified transportation ecosystem, unlocking the full potential of EVs in harmony with the grid.

At EVesto, we not only empower our clients with actionable data for load balancing, smart charging, predictive analytics, and strategic infrastructure planning but also prioritize cybersecurity. We’re deeply committed to ensuring grid stability and protecting against cyber threats.

Deep dive into strategies and features that can be incorporated:

  • Demand Response Management:
  • Load Balancing: Implementing sophisticated algorithms to distribute the charging load evenly across the grid, averting overloads during peak hours.
  • Dynamic Pricing: In developing stages, dynamic pricing can incentivize off-peak charging by offering lower rates during low demand.
  • Integration with Renewable Energy Sources:
  • Green Charging: Prioritize charging from renewable energy sources to reduce the carbon footprint of EV charging.
  • Energy Storage Integration: Integrate with energy storage systems to store renewable energy for later use in charging.
  • Smart Charging:
  • Scheduled Charging: Allowing users to schedule their charging sessions during off-peak hours significantly reduces grid strain.
  • V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid) Integration: V2G capabilities enable EVs to feed energy back into the grid during high demand, promoting a bidirectional energy flow.
  • Predictive Analytics:
  • Forecasting: Harnessing data analytics to forecast demand patterns, aiding in the optimization of grid operations
  • Predictive Maintenance: Utilizing predictive algorithms, CPOs can anticipate and pre-empt issues before they occur, ensuring a smooth operation.
  • Infrastructure Planning:
  • Optimal Site Selection: Data analytics can spotlight optimal locations for new charging stations based on demand patterns and grid capacity, ensuring the infrastructure grows intelligently with the demand
  • Interoperability and Standardization:
  • Open Standards: Although yet to be fully realized, adopting open standards can ensure interoperability between charging networks and grid systems.
  • API Integration: Open APIs can facilitate integration with other systems, creating a cohesive ecosystem.
  • Remote Monitoring and Control:
  • Real-Time Monitoring: Real-time monitoring of charging stations can swiftly identify and address issues.
  • Remote Control: Enabling remote control of charging stations can manage load and avert grid instability.

Collaborating with innovative partners is key to moving towards Grid Harmony. Our partnership with Ampcontrol is a big part of this. The technical work we do together opens up many benefits for our customers, like lower energy costs and reliable charging, thanks to Ampcontrol’s smart charging and energy management software.

Here’s how this collaboration helps in achieving Grid Harmony:

  • Optimized Charging: Ampcontrol’s software smartly schedules charging times, avoiding high energy use during peak hours, which lowers costs for our customers.
  • Peak Demand Shaving: The software helps avoid energy use during peak times, which is good for the grid and EV owners. This reduces grid stress and lowers energy bills.
  • Better Energy Management: Ampcontrol’s energy management aligns well with EVesto’s goal of a sustainable and reliable energy system. This helps tackle the challenges of integrating EVs into the grid.
  • Data-Driven Insights: Combining data from both platforms helps in planning and making sure the charging system grows well with the increasing EV market.
  • Benefits for Customers: This partnership offers customers a strong, cost-effective, and reliable charging solution, making EV charging easy and beneficial.

Also, as we use more data, EVesto’s strong security measures protect against cyber threats. Our blog post discusses our strong focus on EV charger security and keeping data safe.

Working with Ampcontrol and other EMS solutions brings us closer to a future where smart grid tech and electric vehicles blend well, creating a balanced, sustainable energy setup. This partnership not only tackles current challenges but also sets a solid base for the promising path ahead in EV space, making it easier for our customers to move towards grid harmony.

At EVesto, we are at the forefront of delving into and implementing smart grid technologies to weave a harmonious interaction between EVs and the power grid. Our relentless efforts in advancing charge point management software mirror our unwavering commitment to nurturing a sustainable and reliable energy ecosystem. The path towards Grid Harmony is spread with challenges and opportunities, and we at EVesto are steadfast in our resolve to navigate through them, carving out a greener future for all.

This blog highlights how EVs affect the grid and how smart grid technologies, driven by innovative strategies, play a key role in creating a smooth connection between the grid and EVs. As we move forward, combining these technologies will help overcome challenges and lay the groundwork for a more sustainable and electrified transportation future.