Recognizing that electric vehicle drivers were often faced with charging issues that demanded either the right charging card or smartphone app to gain access, Hubject and Daimler have teamed up to create a simpler, digital certificate-based service.
Convenience is the key word in what they are trying to achieve, as the new system allows even payments to be made automatically. It boasts modern encryption and signature mechanisms and requires no other access media to use. Essentially, it digitally certifies a customer, transmits it in encrypted form, then allows the charging process to proceed. It is usable both online and offline.
“Together with Daimler, we are drawing closer to our vision: simple charging and payment for electric vehicles for everybody. Everywhere,” Hubject CEO Christian Hahn said. “Charging with Plug&Charge via ISO 15118 is our next step on the way towards a fully automated, customer-friendly charging experience.”
Hubject, a Berlin-based e-mobility specialist, worked with the auto manufacturing giant on the pilot phase of the program, which has now concluded. Ebee Smart Technologies also participated as the charging point operator. Together, they have determined that Plug&Charge is now ready for production, and Daimler will host the first electric vehicle to support it.
Though Daimler is the first recipient of the new system, Hubject has made clear that all global markets in all industries will be able to join their ISO 15118 system standard. That system also intends to, in the future, integrate electric vehicle more closely into the energy grid through smart charging.