Every Essential Term, Explained
This comprehensive glossary by WattLogic is designed to help you navigate the electric vehicle terms in the EV Charging ecosystem. It covers various topics, from key stakeholder roles in the EV Charging industry to technical terms related to chargers, protocols, and more.
Our EV charging glossary will be helpful in your research, planning, or business framework. Book a consultation if you’d like to explore the EV charging market, business opportunities, prerequisites, and everything else.
Roles and Operational Models in the EV Charging Industry
Site Owner / Site Host / Location Host
The concept of a site owner or host in the context of electric vehicle terms is essential for successfully deploying a charging station. A site owner can be a business or entity that owns or manages a specific location where charging point installations are situated. These locations can range from retail chains to restaurants, business centers, parking operators, municipalities, and more.
EV Driver
An EV driver embraces electric vehicles’ technology and sustainability benefits, utilizing charging infrastructure, public charging stations, and various charging methods to ensure their vehicle remains powered and ready for daily journeys.
Charge Point Operator (CPO)
The Charge Point Operator (CPO) is crucial in the electric vehicle (EV) industry. As the demand for electric cars continues to rise, CPOs are responsible for installing and managing charging point infrastructure. They ensure the smooth functioning of charging stations, which is crucial for the widespread adoption of electric cars.
Charge Point Installer (CPI)
The Charge Point Installer is a certified electrician who is pivotal in deploying and maintaining electric vehicle charging infrastructure. They possess in-depth knowledge of electric vehicle terms, charging technologies, and EV batteries. With their expertise, CPIs contribute to the growth of the electric vehicle industry and the transition to a more sustainable transportation system.
Electro-mobility Service Provider (eMSP)
Electro-mobility Service Providers are central to the growth and adoption of electric cars as they provide the necessary infrastructure and services to support the charging needs of EV drivers. By offering seamless access to charging points, account management, and essential information, eMSPs simplify and enhance the EV charging experience.
Electric Vehicle Service Provider (EVSP)
EVSPs facilitate convenient charging solutions for EV drivers and empower them with roadside assistance and fleet management services. With their expertise in the electric vehicle industry, EVSPs actively contribute to the growth and development of the electric vehicle market.
Electrical Utility Supplier
The electricity supplier is responsible for sourcing and distributing electrical energy to end consumers and larger customers. They help power the charging infrastructure that supports the growing number of EVs on the road today.
Electric Vehicle Fleet Operator
The Electric Vehicle Fleet Operator ensures that the fleet’s vehicles, which include electric cars, hybrid electric vehicles, and battery electric vehicles, are adequately charged and ready for use. They oversee the installation and maintenance of charging stations, commonly known as charge points or public charging stations, equipped with electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) that deliver electric power to the vehicles.
OEM – Original Equipment Manufacturer
Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are entities responsible for designing, manufacturing, and selling electric vehicles and EVSEs, such as battery electric vehicles (BEVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), extended-range electric vehicles (ER-EVs), and EV charging equipment. OEMs utilize various technologies to create efficient, sustainable, and zero-emission modes of transportation.
Charging Operational Models Based on EV Driver Access
Residential Charging
Residential charging is a crucial component of electric vehicle infrastructure, allowing EV owners to recharge their vehicles conveniently at home. With a residential charging station, homeowners can conveniently and safely charge their electric vehicles overnight or during the day, eliminating the need to visit public charging stations. These private charging stations provide the convenience of refueling the electric vehicle battery pack at the owner’s disposal, ensuring a fully charged battery for their daily commute.
Public Charging
Public charging stations are essential infrastructure for electric vehicle (EV) drivers, providing a convenient and reliable way to recharge their vehicles outside their homes. These charging stations can be found in various locations, catering to the needs of EV drivers wherever they go. Whether a driver is on a road trip and needs to top up their battery along the highway or needs a quick charge while running errands, public charging stations are easily accessible.
Workplace Charging
Workplace charging refers to installing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in offices, warehouses, factories, and other types of workplaces. The primary goal of workplace charging is to boost the utility of electric vehicles by allowing employees to recharge during work hours. Employees who are offered accessible and convenient charging solutions at their place of work are much more likely to consider buying an electric vehicle. Additionally, by offering charging solutions, companies help conserve energy and reduce emissions, which aligns with their corporate sustainability goals.
Fleet Charging
Fleet charging refers to the infrastructure and processes that enable the simultaneous charging of multiple electric vehicles (EVs) within a fleet. These charging solutions are crucial for businesses, municipalities, or any organization that operates a group of EVs. A robust fleet charging system is vital for operational efficiency, whether for delivery vehicles, taxis, service vehicles, or employee cars.
EV Charging Software Terminology
Charge Point Management System (CPMS)
A Charge Point Management System (CPMS) is an IT system that manages and optimizes the EV charging process. It enables efficient and effective management of the charging process for an electric car, including battery electric vehicles (BEV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV), and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). By utilizing the CPMS, charging station operators or charge point operators can better handle the charging points by monitoring and controlling different aspects of the charging process.
Roaming for EV Charging
EV roaming enables electric vehicle (EV) drivers to utilize charging stations operated by charge point operators (CPOs) other than the ones to which the driver is subscribed. This allows EV owners to charge using a unified customer account at any charging station participating in a roaming agreement.
Smart Charging Software
Smart Charging Software refers to controlling, monitoring, and limiting EV charging to use energy based on local consumption demand efficiently.
Load Balancing Software
This software plays a significant role in managing the power levels and ensuring the charging process is efficient for all connected EVs. By monitoring the demand and load on the charging station, load balancing software can allocate available power resources appropriately among the EVs.
Smart Energy Management
Smart energy management within the context of electric vehicles refers to optimizing the charging infrastructure and energy resources, utilizing advanced technology to monitor, manage, and adjust energy consumption efficiently. This ensures that the energy demand of electric vehicles is met while minimizing strain on the electrical grid.
Demand Response
Demand Response within the context of electric vehicles refers to the ability of customers to participate actively in grid operations. This concept revolutionizes the traditional way of consuming electricity by allowing EV drivers to manage their charging behaviors based on the demand and availability of electric power.
EV Charging Protocols and Standards
ISO 15118
ISO 15118 is an international standard that defines the communication protocol between EVs and charging stations. It enables plug-and-charge capability, bidirectional charging, and other advanced features.
Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP)
OCPP is an open standard for communication between charging stations and a central management system. It allows CPOs to monitor and manage their charging station networks remotely.
Open Smart Charging Protocol (OSCP)
Open Smart Charging Protocol (OSCP) is an open standard that facilitates seamless communication between EV charging stations and energy management systems. This protocol is instrumental in optimizing charging operations and reducing the strain on the power grid, enabling Charge Point Operators (CPOs) to manage EV charging infrastructure effectively.
CHAdeMO
CHAdeMO is a Japanese standard for DC fast charging, which has gained immense popularity and acceptance worldwide. As one of the most widely used DC fast charging standards, it is vital in expanding and developing electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.
CCS
Combined Charging System (CCS) is a standardized DC fast charging protocol used in Europe and America for electric vehicles (EVs). While some third-party adapters exist for CHAdeMO vehicles to use CCS charging stations, compatibility can be limited, and such use may not be officially supported by all manufacturers. EV charging infrastructure, including charging stations and equipment, is essential for adopting electric cars.
J1772
This standard connector plays a significant role in charging different types of electric vehicles, including battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Integrated into North America’s Level 1 and Level 2 charging systems, J1772 ensures EV drivers access to a reliable and efficient charging infrastructure.
IEC 62196
IEC 62196 is an international standard that provides guidelines for AC and DC charging in electric vehicles. It is crucial to ensure compatibility and safety across various worldwide charging systems. The standard covers different types of electric vehicles, including hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), battery electric vehicles (BEVs), and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), which rely on electric power as their primary source of energy instead of depending on an internal combustion engine.
Charging Infrastructure and Types of Power
“Charging infrastructure” is an umbrella term that includes all the technical facilities necessary to provide power to electric vehicles; this encompasses elements like power-enabled parking spaces, charging stations, and ways to manage access and payment. This section elaborates on the diverse options that fall under this category.
Charging Infrastructure
Charging station
A charging station is a device that allows EV drivers to charge their vehicles. Charging stations can be found in various locations, such as parking lots, gas stations, and highways.
Charging network
A charging network is a group of charging stations interconnected and operated by the same company. Charging networks allow EV drivers to charge their vehicles at various locations.
Types of Power
Single-phase Power
Single-phase Power refers to the type of electrical energy supplied to standard two or 3-pin plug sockets found in most homes and businesses. This type of power can be used to power a dedicated charge point with an output of up to 7kW.
Three-phase Power
Often found on commercial and industrial sites, three-phase power allows for higher charging power levels, with 22kW of AC charging capability. It is especially significant for installing DC rapid chargers requiring substantial three-phase power availability.
EV Charging and Connector Types
Types of Charger
AC Charging
Alternating Current (AC) charging is a standard method for powering electric vehicles, often used for overnight charging sessions. The vehicle has an onboard charger that determines the battery charging rate. AC charge points often provide maximum speeds of 7.4KWh, 11KWh, and 22KWh. AC charging employs lower voltage levels, either Level 1 (120 volts or the average household power supply) or Level 2 (240 volts or the power equivalent of an electric dryer). AC charger stations can be conveniently installed in most residences, even though these lower voltages lead to slower charging times. As an ideal solution, AC charging is well-suited for home use, workplaces, multi-unit residences, and other locations associated with long-term parking, such as hotels, train stations, and airport parking structures.
DC Fast Charging
Direct Current (DC) chargers provide a quick charging solution for electric vehicles, delivering power directly to the vehicle’s battery, typically at rates exceeding that of AC charging. The charging speed is proportional to the DC power supplied and relies on the vehicle’s compatibility with the power level. Ultra-fast DC charging can offer up to 350KWh, but the most common speeds range between 50KWh and 100KWh to 150KWh for high-power DC charging.
Consider this to highlight the distinction in charging capacity between AC and DC fast charging: A Level 2, 7.2kW AC charger may take about an hour to deliver approximately 27 miles of EV driving range. In contrast, a 50kW DC fast charger could supply the exact 27 miles of range in roughly 10 minutes.
Within AC and DC charging, there are different levels of charging speed:
- Level 1 charging is the slowest and uses a standard household outlet. Level 1 charging can typically take up to 24 hours to fully charge an EV battery.
- Level 2 charging is faster than Level 1 and uses a 240V outlet. Level 2 charging can typically take up to 4 hours to fully charge an EV battery.
- Level 3 charging is the fastest and uses a high-voltage DC outlet. Level 3 charging can take up to 30 minutes to fully charge an EV battery.
EV Charging Connector Types
EVSE – Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment
Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) is a broad term encompassing all the technical components necessary for charging electric vehicles. This includes charging stations or charge points that provide electrical energy to the battery of an electric vehicle. EVSE supports various types of electric vehicles, including battery electric vehicles (BEVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).
Type 1 Plug
The Type 1 plug is a single-phase connector capable of supporting charging power levels up to 7.4 kWh (230 V, 32 A). Characterized by five pins and an additional clip, this plug style is prevalent in the US and is often seen on EVs from Asian and US brands such as Nissan, Mitsubishi, and GM/Vauxhall/Opel. Yet, its significance is diminishing, given Nissan’s switch to Type 2.
Type 2 Plug
The Type 2 plug, a three-phase plug, supports charging power levels up to 22 kWh in private settings. At public charging stations, this can increase to as much as 43 kWh (400 V, 63 A, AC). The majority of public charging stations come equipped with a type 2 socket. This plug type is compatible with all mode three charging cables and can charge electric cars fitted with type 1 and 2 plugs. Charge station side mode three cables typically carry Mennekes plugs (type 2).
The Type 2 plug is distinguished by its seven-pin structure and one flattened edge. Initially preferred by European automotive manufacturers such as BMW and the VW Group, it’s now gaining widespread popularity across all vehicles. This plug carries three-phase power and securely locks into a charging point’s socket.
UK 3-Pin
The UK 3-pin refers to the standard connector for an electrical outlet in the UK. This plug can be a backup charging solution for certain electric vehicles in emergencies. However, it does not offer the robust safety measures, swift charging rates, or security features inherent in a dedicated charging station.
Wall Connector
A wall connector is an essential component of electric vehicle charging infrastructure, providing a convenient and efficient method for EV owners to charge their vehicles. This charging equipment is designed to be mounted on a wall, allowing for easy installation in various locations such as homes, office buildings, and parking garages. Wall connectors play a crucial role in EV charging, ensuring a steady supply of electric power to the vehicle’s battery.
Combined Charging System (CCS1 and CCS2)
The Combined Charging System (CCS) is an integrated fast-charging mechanism capable of supplying direct or alternating current. Two distinct versions exist based on geographical standards. In the United States, connectors are categorized as Type 1 and DC, or CCS1 or Combo1. Conversely, the CCS2 system, which consists of Type 2 and DC connectors, often called Combo2, is utilized in Europe.
CEE
CEECEE rotary power connectors, called CEE plugs, are widely used in European electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. These connectors adhere to the IEC 60309 standard and are commonly found in red 400 V rotary power plugs and blue 230 V plugs, predominantly used in the camping industry.
TESLA Supercharger
The Tesla Supercharger is an integral part of the electric vehicle charging infrastructure, designed specifically for Tesla’s lineup of electric cars. It utilizes a modified Type 2 Mennekes plug, which enables fast charging of the vehicle’s battery pack. With the Supercharger, Tesla vehicles can recharge up to 80% of their battery capacity in 30 minutes, making long-distance travel more convenient and efficient.
CHAdeMO
The CHAdeMO four-pin plug is a specific connector for rapid charging points in electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Primarily compatible with Asian EV brands such as Mitsubishi and Nissan, this plug is not commonly found on EVs from other regions. Unlike the Combined Charging System (CCS), CHAdeMO offers Vehicle to Grid (V2G) capabilities, allowing EVs to supply power to the electrical grid. However, it has lower power levels than CCS and requires two separate AC and DC charging sockets.
Types of Vehicles
EV (Electric Vehicle)
Electric motors and motor controllers power electric Vehicle (EV), unlike internal combustion engines in traditional vehicles. EVs harness electricity stored in a battery, which is used to drive the electric motor and move the wheels. EVs come in several types, including Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs), and Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs).
Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)
Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) belongs to the electric vehicle family. It uses batteries to store energy onboard. A BEV does not contain an internal combustion engine. Instead, it entirely depends on its electric battery system for its energy needs and has to be plugged into an external source to recharge its batteries.
PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle)
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) blends features of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. It’s equipped with a large battery that can be recharged by plugging it into an electrical outlet or, in some instances, an EV charging station. PHEVs usually have two operating modes: the “all-electric” mode, where the motor and battery provide all the vehicle’s energy, and the “hybrid” mode, where electricity and petrol contribute to the vehicle’s motion.
Plug-in Vehicle (PiV)
Plug-in Vehicle (PiV) is a general term for any vehicle equipped with a plug socket, encompassing BEVs and PHEVs.
Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV)
An Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) is any vehicle with certified CO2 tailpipe emissions of less than 75g/km. Cars meeting these criteria are eligible for grants and benefits the UK government provides.
Range-extended EV (REx)
A Range-extended Electric Vehicle (REx) is an EV that uses only an electric drivetrain, with the addition of a small petrol generator that kicks in to recharge the battery when its range is depleted during longer journeys. It’s often classified as a type of PHEV.
Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)
A Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) is a fossil-fueled hybrid car, the most famous example being the Toyota Prius. An HEV uses a small battery that is charged through regenerative braking, generating some electric power to supplement a combustion engine, but its energy is principally derived from petrol.
Electric Vehicle (EV) Systems
State of Charge (SOC)
The State of Charge (SOC) is a fuel gauge for an EV’s battery pack. SOC is quantified in percentage points, with 0% indicating a completely depleted charge and 100% signifying a fully charged battery. This measurement allows the user to visualize the remaining battery capacity.
Battery Management System (BMS)
The BMS ensures the electrified powertrain’s safe operation and optimal performance by continuously monitoring the battery’s temperature, voltage, and state of charge. This system plays a vital role in an electric vehicle’s efficient and effective operation.
Charging Management System (LMS)
An LMS acts as the brain behind the electric vehicle’s charging system, ensuring that the charging process is efficient, safe, and tailored to the specific needs of the EV. It manages the flow of electric current from the charging station to the EV’s battery pack, overseeing the entire charging process.
Thermal management system
The thermal management system keeps the battery and electric motor cool to prevent overheating.
Vehicle control unit (VCU)
The VCU is the brain of the EV. It controls all of the vehicle’s systems, including the battery system, the electric motor, the power electronics, and the thermal management system.
Braking system
The braking system slows down and stops the EV. EVs use regenerative braking to recapture energy from braking and return it to the battery system.
WattLogic presents this robust glossary as your go-to guide for understanding all essential terms circulating in the Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging landscape.
You’re welcome to schedule a consultation if you’re keen on delving deeper into the EV charging market, its unique business opportunities, essential requirements, and everything in between.
