By Rasika Shejul, Subject Matter Expert, Electric Powertrain, KPIT

In association with Automotive World

The electric vehicle (EV) landscape is rapidly evolving, and with it comes the need for more efficient and user-friendly charging solutions. One such solution is the Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) PlugnCharge system, which promises to simplify the EV charging experience. However, implementing this system comes with its own set of challenges. In this blog, we will explore these challenges and how KPIT’s solutions can help overcome them.

Key Challenges in Deploying PlugnCharge Communication Systems

The current EV charging experience is often cumbersome, with drivers facing numerous questions and uncertainties. From understanding sign-in instructions to ensuring compatibility with their vehicle, the process can be daunting. The PlugnCharge system aims to address these issues by enabling seamless communication between the EV and the charging station. However, this requires robust security measures, including TLS encryption and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) for data exchange.

The Complexity of the PlugnCharge Ecosystem

The PlugnCharge ecosystem is inherently complex due to the interplay of multiple stakeholders, stringent security measures, and the need for dynamic integration with rapidly evolving technologies. Key players in this ecosystem include Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Charge Point Operators (CPOs), Mobility Operators (MOs), and various PKI services. Ensuring smooth coordination among these entities is crucial for the successful implementation of PlugnCharge.

KPIT offers comprehensive solutions to accelerate the time to market for V2G PlugnCharge systems. These solutions include:

• EVCC Software Stack: KPIT has developed a robust Electric Vehicle Communication Controller (EVCC) software stack that conforms to global standards such as ISO/IEC 15118, DIN SPEC 70121, GB/T 27930, and CHAdeMO. This stack helps reduce software development time by up to 40%.
• Comprehensive Testing Suite: To overcome interoperability challenges, KPIT provides a comprehensive testing suite that ensures conformance to all relevant standards.
• Customizable and Scalable Platform: KPIT’s EVCC platform is customizable and scalable, helping OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers accelerate their time to market.
• Secure Communication: KPIT integrates leading crypto libraries and TLS support to ensure top-tier security for EV communication.

Addressing EV Charging Challenges

To truly unlock the potential of PlugnCharge, stakeholders must work together to create a cohesive and efficient EV charging ecosystem. This involves:

• Simplifying Technology for Access and Payment: Ensuring that the technology is user-friendly and accessible for all EV drivers.
• Ensuring Compatibility and Compliance: OEMs must ensure that their vehicles are compatible with various charging standards and comply with global regulations.
• Enhancing Cybersecurity: Protecting vehicles and customer data from potential cyber-attacks is paramount.
• Improving Interoperability: Aligning vehicle platforms with diverse charging networks to provide a seamless experience for EV drivers.

The PlugnCharge Paradigm: How it Works

The PlugnCharge system works by enabling the vehicle to identify itself to the charging station, which then authenticates the vehicle and initiates the charging process. This requires the installation of digital certificates in the vehicle and the charging station, which are managed through a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI). The PKI ensures secure communication and data exchange between the vehicle and the charging station.

Security Landscape Comparison: ISO 15118-2 vs ISO 15118-20

The security measures for PlugnCharge have evolved with the introduction of ISO 15118-20, which mandates the use of TLS 1.3 for secure communication. This is an improvement over ISO 15118-2, which only optionally used TLS 1.2. The new standard also supports more advanced cipher suites and signature algorithms, enhancing the overall security of the PlugnCharge system.

KPIT’s Case Study: Implementing PlugnCharge for a Leading OEM

KPIT successfully implemented the PlugnCharge system for a leading OEM by developing a comprehensive EVCC software stack on the Android platform. The solution included integrating a crypto library for secure communication, implementing a secure element for certificate and key management, and ensuring ISO 15118 conformance through thorough testing. This resulted in robust compliance with global charging standards, top-tier security, and streamlined testing with automated test suites.

Conclusion

The V2G PlugnCharge system holds great promise for simplifying the EV charging experience. However, its implementation requires careful coordination among multiple stakeholders, robust security measures, and dynamic integration with evolving technologies. KPIT’s comprehensive solutions are designed to address these challenges and accelerate the time to market for V2G PlugnCharge systems, ultimately providing a seamless and efficient charging experience for EV drivers.