Electric Miles- Experts & Thought Leaders

Vestel’s UK EV charger division has formed a strategic partnership with dedicated EV software provider, Electric Miles. The move sees end-user - Electric Miles EV charger control software integrated with Vestel chargers and enables Vestel to offer a whole ecosystem of effective charger control and management options to its installers, fleet customers, and charge point operators. Remote charger management Electric Miles brings to the table a suite of cutting-edge solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of businesses transitioning to electric mobility. The suite includes, Electric Miles the driver app, bringing to the table all EV tariff integration The suite includes, Electric Miles the driver app, bringing to the table all EV tariff integration along with full solar capabilities, Installer Miles, easy to use commissioning app designed for Installers, and Admin Miles, aimed at operations and fleet managers, as well as teams supporting multiple charge points and customers that also require remote charger management. Ali Khan, Head of e-Mobility at Vestel, comments: "We are excited to partner with Electric Miles to deliver innovative EV charger software and apps for our entire Vestel EV charger customer portfolio from residential end users to fleet operators and CPOs. Together, we are committed to driving the adoption of electric mobility by offering affordable, efficient, sustainable, and user-centric charging solutions." EV charging software and control Arun Anand, CEO of Electric Miles, said, "Partnering with Vestel, one of Europe’s largest EV charger manufacturers, further establishes Electric Miles as the UK pioneer in EV charging software and control." He adds, "As EV numbers increase, there is a growing need for software that can automatically time shift EV electricity demand to protect the grid and minimize customer energy costs, as well as offering flexible charger management and reporting for commercial users. We are looking forward to working with Vestel to embed these solutions across its EV charger portfolio." Vestel’s commercial chargers Electric Miles will be built into residential-focused variants of Vestel’s forthcoming Libra EV charger, giving users a friendly, easy-to-use control app from installation. Installer Miles and Admin Miles will feature across Vestel’s commercial chargers, from smaller units designed for SMEs to its full commercial rapid and DC chargers hitting the UK later this year. With Vestel’s Turkish factory offering a production capacity of over 700,000 EV charging units per year alongside the brand's enviable reputation for value and reliability, the Electric Miles partnership will underpin Vestel’s continued growth in the UK EV charger market.

OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol) is a universally adopted protocol for communication between electric vehicle (EV) charging stations (often called “charge points”) and a central system, usually referred to as a Charging Station Management System (CSMS). The Evolution: OCPP 1.6 OCPP 1.6, developed by the Open Charge Alliance (OCA) to enhance the capabilities of the protocol and ensure that it kept pace with the evolving needs of the electric vehicle (EV) charging ecosystem. This version continued the tradition of OCPP being an open, manufacturer-agnostic standard for communication between charge point and the central system. Being an open, manufacturer-agnostic standard, it set the tone for a universal language that different EV equipment manufacturers could rely on.  OCPP 1.6 encapsulated various functionalities:  Flexibility in Communication: With its support for both SOAP and JSON messaging, developers gained considerable flexibility, opening doors to diverse system integrations.  User-Centric Innovations: Recognizing the shifts in consumer behavior, OCPP 1.6 introduced a reservation system, allowing users to reserve charging slots, giving them more control over their charging schedules.  Smart Charging: As the name suggests, it empowered charge points with the intelligence to adjust EV charging intensity based on various parameters, such as grid status or user preferences.  Data Transfer and Diagnostics: This version’s ability to manage custom data transfers and offer enhanced diagnostic tools epitomized its forward-thinking design.  However, with technological advancement, new challenges and requirements emerge. And while OCPP 1.6 was a giant leap in its time, the EV landscape demanded more. The Leap: OCPP 2.0.1 OCPP 2.0.1 stands as a refined version of the Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP). Building on its predecessor’s foundation, it elevates the functionalities and intricacies of EV charging communication. This advanced iteration not only incorporates the strengths of OCPP 1.6 but also introduces enhancements that address its limitations, showcasing the evolving nature of charging protocols. Enhanced Security: Addressing security concerns was a prime focus of OCPP 2.0.1. It introduced support for WebSocket Secure (WSS) and Transport Layer Security (TLS), encrypted and secure communications with support for mutual authentication using X.509 certificates, ensuring both charge point and CSMS can validate each other.  ISO 15118 Support: This allowed for Plug and Charge (P&C) capabilities, letting EVs (electric vehicles) and charging stations authenticate and authorize without requiring physical input from the driver.     Advanced Smart Charging: OCPP 2.0.1 took smart charging to a new level, offering detailed energy profiles, power limits, and charging schedules with direct support for input from Energy Management Systems (EMS) towards a charge station, improvements in smart charging from a local controller and support for integrated smart charging of the charge station management system (CSMS), charging station (CS) and the Electric Vehicle (EV).   Display Messages: The protocol enabled the central system to send messages for display at the charging station, enhancing user communication while showing messages in their preferred language along with an added transparency by showing before, during and after costs. What is the difference? The new version also brought in features that let management systems handle specific parts The jump from OCPP 1.6 to 2.0.1 in electric vehicle (EV) charging highlighted better security and improved user features. While 1.6 had basic safety measures, 2.0.1 added stronger protection and ensured devices and management systems could securely communicate. It also made using the charging points easier. Users now see messages directly on the charging screens, and issues or errors get fixed faster. Plus, costs related to charging are clearer. The new version also brought in features that let management systems handle specific parts, like RFID readers or screens, more efficiently. Overall, 2.0.1 is a big step forward, making EV charging safer, more user-friendly, and up to date. Unlocking the Full Potential of Bidirectional Charging Bidirectional charging allows not just electricity to flow from the grid to the vehicle (as in traditional EV charging) but also from the vehicle back to the grid. This capability transforms the electric vehicle into a potential energy storage device that can provide power when necessary. With OCPP 2.0.1, this vision is closer to reality. Through features like Energy Transfer Mode and advanced transaction event data, the protocol provides the necessary infrastructure for this two-way energy exchange. Moreover, the integration of standards like ISO/IEC 15118 ensures seamless communication, making bidirectional charging a tangible future. Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G): Shaping the Future of Energy Grids Grid Support: OCPP 2.0.1’s bidirectional capabilities enable EVs to provide crucial support to the grid during peak loads or supply shortages. Imagine a world where the EV becomes a mobile power station, helping to stabilize the energy supply in the local area.  Dynamic Control: Electric Miles utilizes OCPP 2.0.1 to dynamically control the direction of energy flow based on grid conditions or specific algorithms. This means that EVs can intelligently decide when to charge, discharge, or simply store energy, optimizing grid performance and reducing energy waste.  Revenue Generation: In a high-demand scenario, energy stored in EVs could be sold back to the grid, generating revenue for the vehicle owner. Electric Miles is pioneering the concept of the EV earning their money while parked. Virtual Power Plant (VPP): Turning EV Fleets into Energy Hubs Aggregation of Resources: With OCPP 2.0.1’s bidirectional capabilities, Electric Miles aggregates fleets of EVs to form a Virtual Power Plant (VPP). Imagine a collective of EVs working together as a large energy source, providing not only clean power but also an additional layer of grid security.  Energy Balancing: VPPs, controlled by Electric Miles, can actively balance energy demand and supply on the grid. This results in enhanced grid stability, reducing the risk of blackouts and ensuring a consistent power supply for all.  Enhanced Grid Resilience: In the face of power outages or grid supply shortfalls, Electric Miles utilizes the energy stored in EVs to offer emergency power. EVs become an integral part of grid resilience, ensuring that essential services and homes remain powered during emergencies.  Optimized Energy Trading: Electric Miles, with advanced transaction event data and power profiles, makes informed decisions about energy trading. This means buying energy when prices are low and selling it back to the grid when prices are high, saving money for EV owners and contributing to a more efficient energy market. Empowering All Stakeholders The adoption of V2G and VPP technologies by Electric Miles not only benefits EV owners The adoption of V2G and VPP technologies by Electric Miles not only benefits EV owners but also utility companies, grid operators, and society as a whole. For users, it means reduced charging costs, the ability to earn money from their EVs, and the satisfaction of contributing to a greener future. Electric Miles & The Future of Energy Electric Miles’ ongoing collaboration with Verbund in deploying Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology is a work in progress, with exciting developments anticipated. As the project unfolds, Electric Miles remains dedicated to exploring the full potential of V2G, aiming to showcase its practical applications in real-world scenarios. This dynamic partnership is actively shaping the future of electric vehicles, contributing to the evolution of energy ecosystems, and paving the way for innovative solutions that align with sustainability goals. Stay tuned for the forthcoming outcomes of this impactful collaboration between Electric Miles and Verbund in the realm of V2G technology.

In recent years, the United Kingdom has been making remarkable strides in both the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and the expansion of renewable energy sources. As the world collectively turns its attention towards sustainable transportation and reducing carbon emissions, a fascinating and promising trend has emerged: the integration of solar EV charging infrastructure. This innovative approach not only promotes the use of clean energy but also contributes to the growth of electric mobility in the UK. Solar EV Charging The concept of solar EV charging is relatively straightforward: harnessing the power of the sun to charge electric vehicles. This process involves installing solar panels at charging stations, allowing them to generate electricity directly from sunlight. The generated solar energy can then be used to charge electric vehicles, reducing the reliance on fossil fuels and lowering the overall carbon footprint of transportation. The UK’s Solar Transformation Advancements in solar technology have made solar EV charging a viable and effective solution While the UK might not be synonymous with abundant sunlight, advancements in solar technology have made solar EV charging a viable and effective solution even in its relatively cloudy climate. The nation’s commitment to transitioning towards cleaner forms of energy has facilitated the growth of solar infrastructure, making it an ideal candidate for merging solar power with EV charging. Benefits of Sustainable Mobility Clean Energy Integration: Solar EV charging aligns perfectly with the UK’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. By utilizing renewable solar energy for EV charging, the transportation sector can significantly reduce its contribution to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Reduced Grid Load: As the adoption of electric vehicles continues to rise, concerns about strain on the power grid also grow. Solar EV charging systems can alleviate this burden by drawing electricity directly from solar panels, reducing the demand on the conventional power grid during peak charging times. Energy Resilience: Solar EV charging stations contribute to energy resilience by diversifying the sources of power. During power outages or disruptions, these stations can continue to operate using the stored solar energy, ensuring that EV owners have access to charging even in challenging situations. Cost Savings: Over time, solar EV charging can lead to substantial cost savings for both station operators and EV owners. Solar power is a free and abundant resource, which can help reduce the operating costs associated with conventional EV charging stations. Public Engagement: Solar EV charging stations serve as tangible examples of the UK’s commitment to sustainability. They raise awareness and encourage public engagement in renewable energy adoption and clean transportation practices. Challenges and Considerations While the benefits of solar EV charging are significant, challenges remain that must be addressed for its widespread adoption. The intermittent nature of solar energy generation requires careful consideration of energy storage solutions to ensure continuous charging availability, especially during non-sunny periods. Additionally, the initial installation costs of solar panels and charging infrastructure can be a barrier, although these costs are expected to decrease as technology advances and economies of scale come into play. The Way Forward: Collaboration and Innovation To maximize the potential of solar EV charging in the UK, a union between various stakeholders is crucial To maximize the potential of solar EV charging in the UK, collaboration between various stakeholders is crucial. Government bodies, private sector companies, and research institutions must work together to drive innovation, develop cost-effective solutions, and create a supportive regulatory environment. Furthermore, technological advancements in energy storage, smart grid integration, and solar panel efficiency will play a pivotal role in overcoming current limitations and ensuring the reliability and viability of solar EV charging infrastructure. Conclusion Solar EV charging represents a significant step forward in merging renewable energy with electric mobility in the United Kingdom. By leveraging the power of the sun, the UK can further reduce its carbon footprint while expanding its EV charging network. As technology continues to evolve and awareness of sustainable practices grows, solar EV charging stands as a beacon of hope for a cleaner and more sustainable future, where electric vehicles are powered by the ultimate source of energy: the sun.