Kaluza and Mitsubishi to launch Japan’s first smart charging service
In the hopes of driving a balanced Japanese grid network, multinational automobile manufacturer Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) and UK-born energy software platform Kaluza are partnering to launch Japan’s first telematics-based smart charging service.
The smart charging service is hoped to increase the affordability of Electric Vehicles (EVs) and maximise their value for a decarbonised energy system. The service builds on Kaluza’s global smart charging acumen following deployments in North America, Europe and Australia.
Smart charging tech enables EVs to charge at times of low demand, when energy is cheaper and greener, in order to avoid high electricity prices and alleviate network balancing challenges.
Kazuaki Iwamoto, corporate officer and division GM of the mobility business at MMC, said: “The expansion of EVs and renewable energy is making a large impact on power grids and the need for supply and demand adjustment is increasing.
“MMC is tackling this issue by working with Kaluza to develop smart charging services that optimise EV charging and help stabilise power grids in Japan. Furthermore, MMC is looking forward to developing various advanced services using connected technologies like large-capacity EV batteries as ‘Balancing Energy’ and contributing to the realisation of a carbon neutral society.”
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Through the new service, Kaluza’s software will directly connect with MMC’s new Outlander (PHEV model) via telematics, removing the need for separate smart charging hardware.
The service is part of an agreement between MMC, Kaluza and Mitsubishi Corporation, which brings together major transport and energy players.
According to Kaluza, the cross-industry collaboration will demonstrate the power of smart charging at scale and its potential to drive Japan’s progress towards becoming a carbon neutral society.
Neel Gulhar, CMO and head of flex at Kaluza commented: “By turning electric vehicles into ‘batteries on wheels’ countries can build smarter, greener energy systems, centred around the customer…Together we will prove how EVs can be made more affordable for customers and help solve Japan’s grid challenges.”
Kaluza will optimise charging to help customers reduce their EV costs and carbon emissions through a digital experience. Vehicle owners will be able to schedule their charging through a mobile app so that their vehicle is consistently ready to drive when needed and they can track their charging savings.
Outlander owners in Japan will be eligible to participate in product trials this year.
