EV roaming hub aims to democratise fleet charging

Helsinki-headquartered software company SolidRoam has built an EV roaming hub that connects EV charging, aiming to simplify EV fleet charging and management and open public-private collaboration.

Calling it a scalable, flexible and modular software, SolidRoam says the technology democratises the charge hub, connecting EV charging providers through a single connection point.

The company developed the technology based on the most recent roaming protocol versions and charging technologies, including the Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI) 2.2.1. According to SolidRoam, through the technology, companies can become a comprehensive charging network provider with their own OCPI roaming hubs.

There are also plans to support protocols such as Plug&Charge and Autocharge to enable a seamless charging experience.

The goal of SolidRoam is that by 2033 drivers can charge at any charge point just by plugging in, as long as they have a contract with any e-mobility service provider.

Have you read:
Data interoperability key to advance e-mobility finds Eurelectric
EV charging flexibility integrated into National Grid ESO’s Reserve service

To date, states the company in a release, roaming hubs have comprised a closed market. Now, by utilising the SolidRoam Enterprise OCPI Hub and the de-facto industry standard, “any company is able to establish its own EV roaming hub or to simplify a company’s internal roaming topology,” said Erkki Tapola, CEO of SolidRoam.

Tapola explained, “SolidRoam provides flexible, modular options for companies to either establish their own OCPI hub business or simplify specific roaming topology. Exponential complexity makes it difficult to manage a growing network of peer-to-peer roaming partners.

“Every connection can evolve into an expensive potential failure point. If a company oversees many charging point operators and emobility service providers, problems can be multiplied.”

According to SolidRoam, an OCPI hub can be set up with the company’s licensing or software-as-a-service (SaaS) options. Experts will oversee updates and maintenance, “allowing you to focus on establishing your hub business and building a comprehensive network of roaming services,” Tapola added.

SolidRoam partnered with Gireve, e-clearing.net, Elinta Charge, Chargewell, turuncu and zoined on the roaming hub.