Data interoperability key to advance e-mobility finds Eurelectric

Data interoperability is needed to unlock the challenges of the e-mobility ecosystem, Eurelectric’s latest annual report on electric vehicles finds.

The report, prepared with EY, points to the complexity of the e-mobility ecosystem with increasing EV adoption with multiple parties including drivers and players from the charging station and energy systems and the web of relationships between them.

Underlying all of these is data and the need for data exchange not only to assure the day-to-day driver experience but also to enable the integration of EVs into the broader energy system, of which ultimately they must be an integral part.

For the driver, some key issues are charge point accessibility and payments and roaming on a seamless basis.

For the energy sector challenges include the timely connection of charging infrastructure to the grid and the grid integration of the EVs both to avoid congestion on the one hand and to draw on the battery storage potential for flexibility on the other.

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To enable these standards and communication, protocols are essential for each interaction, while any use of data also invokes sharing, privacy and cybersecurity requirements.

e-mobility activities

The report states that data interoperability promotes collaboration and information sharing between stakeholders to enable services and facilities that support EV rollout.

For example, charging station optimisation can be achieved with strategically sited stations that provide EV users with easy access and convenience and thereby reduce range anxiety, enhance the driver experience and encourage wider adoption.

Seamless integration of EV charging with the energy grid enables energy optimisation and grid services, such as frequency regulation and voltage support.

With interoperability between data systems, drivers can benefit from real-time information on charging station availability, pricing and compatibility with their vehicles, they can initiate charging sessions remotely, manage payments and track their charging history via an app.

Industry opportunities

The report suggests that while electric vehicle uptake is advancing towards mainstream adoption, to maintain momentum and keep drivers onside, every interaction must be configured around the customer journey.

“From purchase or lease, through EV usage and management, to end-of-life decommissioning, we must deliver a hassle-free and green driver experience.”

The right structural and regulatory mechanisms need to be in place across each of the relevant areas.

Moreover, by getting the mechanics of data interoperability right, connections will form across conventional demarcation lines with players exploring new commercial opportunities, crossing into adjacent services and competing to win over the customer and capture value.

For example, automotive companies, such as Tesla, Volkswagen and Volvo are already crossing over into energy provision, battery services and solar solutions, while energy companies are building out charging infrastructure and e-mobility services.

Greater cross-over and innovation can be expected as the customer journey is redesigned and commercial lines are redrawn, suggests the report.

Building blocks for success

The report offers five building blocks considered for success in the e-mobility space, irrespective of industry segment.

These are:

• ‘Control tower’ to provide visibility and understanding across the commercial landscape.
• Customer proposition defined using segmentation and analytics to inform the product and service delivery.
• Dataspace acting as a centralised hub for curating, integrating and managing data from diverse sources.
• Data privacy and legal, commercial and regulatory diligence around areas such as customer consent and data sharing.
• Trust and cybersecurity taking into account the multiple connection points and extending to supply chains.

The report concludes by stating that progress is being made, but there’s a long road ahead.

“E-mobility is gaining pace in Europe. To accelerate EVs’ uptake in Europe all players across the value chain need to work together with open, interoperable and secure data to create a smooth, seamless experience for the customer,” comments Eurelectric Secretary General, Kristian Ruby.