Welcome to the eMobility Terminology!
As a passionate advocate for the adoption of electric vehicles and sustainable transportation, I have spent a lot of time learning about the various terms and technologies involved in the eMobility industry. In my short time in this field, I have come across a wide range of terms and concepts that can be confusing for those new to the industry, as well as for those who are simply looking to learn more about eMobility.
That’s why I’ve created this glossary of eMobility Terminology – to provide a comprehensive resource for anyone interested in eMobility to learn about the various terms and concepts that are used in the industry. Whether you are a founder or CEO of a startup or scaleup, a SaaS or tech company, or simply someone who is interested in electric vehicles and sustainable transportation, this glossary has something for you.
Here, you will find a wide range of terms related to charging infrastructure, EV connectors, EV systems, business roles, models, power, protocols and standards, types of charging, and types of vehicles, all organized alphabetically for easy reference. I hope you find this glossary of eMobility Terminology helpful in your journey to learn more about eMobility and the exciting possibilities it offers for a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Below are the categories and terms, listed alphabetically within each category:
Business Roles:
- Charge Point Installer (CPI): An individual or company that specializes in installing EV charging stations. They are responsible for installing and maintaining the hardware and software necessary for charging EVs.
- Charge Point Operator (CPO): A company that manages the operation and maintenance of EV charging stations. CPOs are responsible for ensuring that the charging stations are functioning properly and providing a high level of customer service. They may also offer additional services such as price tariff management and diagnostics. CPOs may own the charging infrastructure or work in partnership with site owners to install chargers at their locations.
- Electro-mobility Service Provider (eMSP): A company that offers a range of services related to electric mobility, such as charging infrastructure, billing, and customer support. eMSPs may own and operate their own charging stations or offer services to other charging networks. They may also allow access to the charging stations in their network from other eMSPs through a process called roaming.
- EV Driver: An individual who owns and drives an electric vehicle.
- Electricity Supplier: A company that generates and sells electricity to consumers. They are responsible for producing and distributing electricity to homes and businesses.
- Distribution Network Operator (DNO): A company that owns and operates the electricity distribution network in a specific region. They are responsible for maintaining the infrastructure that delivers electricity to homes and businesses.
- Electric Vehicle Fleet Operator: A company that operates a fleet of electric vehicles. They may use EVs for a variety of purposes, such as delivery, transportation, or rental services.
- Electric Vehicle Service Provider (EVSP): A company that provides charging services and other support to electric vehicle drivers. This term is also sometimes referred to as the network provider. EVSPs may own and operate their own charging stations or offer services to other charging networks.
- OEM – Original Equipment Manufacturer / Automobile Manufacturer: A company that produces parts or complete vehicles that are then sold to other companies to be assembled or rebranded. OEMs may produce a wide range of products, including EVs and traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
- Roaming Network Operator (RNO): A company that operates a network of EV charging stations and allows customers of other charging networks to access its stations. This process is known as roaming and allows EV drivers to charge their vehicles at a wider range of locations.
- Site Owner / Site Host / Location Host: The owner or manager of a location where EV charging stations are installed. Site owners may partner with CPOs to install chargers at their locations and share in the revenue generated from EV charging.
Charging Infrastructure:
- AC Charging: A type of EV charging that uses alternating current (AC) to transfer electricity from the charger to the vehicle battery. AC charging is typically slower than DC charging but can be used with a wider range of vehicles.
- Charger Types: Different types of chargers that can be used to charge EVs, including AC chargers, DC chargers, and ultra-fast chargers. The type of charger needed depends on the type of vehicle and the charging speed desired.
- Charging Point: A dedicated location where electric vehicles (EVs) can be charged. Charging points may be owned and operated by CPOs or may be installed at a site owned by a location host.
- Charging Station: A dedicated location where electric vehicles (EVs) can be charged. Charging stations may be owned and operated by CPOs or may be installed at a site owned by a location host.
- DC Charger: A type of EV charger that uses direct current (DC) to transfer electricity from the charger to the vehicle battery. DC charging is typically faster than AC charging but may only be compatible with certain types of vehicles.
- EV Charging Connector Types: Different types of connectors that are used to connect EVs to charging stations. The type of connector needed depends on the type of vehicle and the charging station being used. Examples include CHAdeMO, CEE, Combined Charging System (CSS1 and CSS2), Type 1 Plug, and Type 2 Plug.
- EVSE – Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment: A device that is used to transfer electricity from a charging station to an electric vehicle (EV). EVSEs typically include a cord that connects the charging station to the vehicle, as well as connectors and other components that facilitate the charging process.
- Private Charging: A type of EV charging that takes place at a location that is not publicly accessible, such as a private residence or workplace. Private charging may be more convenient for EV drivers who have regular access to a dedicated charging location.
- Public Charging: A type of EV charging that is available to the general public at locations such as parking garages, shopping centers, and rest stops. Public charging may be more convenient for EV drivers who do not have regular access to a private charging location.
- Semi-public Charging: A type of EV charging that is available to the general public but is only accessible at certain times or to certain groups of people, such as hotel guests or members of a charging network.
- Smart Charging: A type of EV charging that uses intelligent systems to optimize the charging process and reduce the impact on the electricity grid. Smart charging systems may take into account factors such as the availability of renewable energy, the current demand for electricity, and the state of charge of the vehicle battery.
EV Charging Connector Types:
- CHAdeMO: A type of electric vehicle (EV) charging connector that is commonly used in Japan and other parts of Asia. CHAdeMO connectors are capable of delivering high-power DC charging to EVs and are often used for fast charging.
- Combined Charging System (CSS1 and CSS2): A type of electric vehicle (EV) charging connector that is used in Europe and other regions. CSS connectors are capable of delivering high-power AC and DC charging to EVs and are often used for fast charging.
- Type 1 Plug: A type of electric vehicle (EV) charging connector that is commonly used in North America. Type 1 plugs are capable of delivering medium-power AC charging to EVs and are often used for slow and medium-speed charging.
- CEE: A type of electric vehicle (EV) charging connector that is used in Europe and other regions. CEE connectors are capable of delivering high-power AC charging to EVs and are often used for fast charging.
- Type 2 Plug: A type of electric vehicle (EV) charging connector that is commonly used in Europe and other regions. Type 2 plugs are capable of delivering high-power AC charging to EVs and are often used for fast charging.
- UK 3 pin: A type of electric vehicle (EV) charging connector that is commonly used in the United Kingdom. UK 3 pin connectors are capable of delivering medium-power AC charging to EVs and are often used for slow and medium-speed charging.
- TESLA Supercharger: A type of electric vehicle (EV) charging connector that is used by Tesla vehicles. TESLA Superchargers are capable of delivering high-power DC charging to Tesla EVs and are often used for fast charging.
EV Systems:
- Battery Management System (BMS): A system that monitors and manages the performance of an electric vehicle’s (EV) battery. The BMS ensures that the battery is operating at optimal levels and can protect the battery from overcharging or overdischarging.
- State of Charge (SOC): A measure of the amount of energy stored in an electric vehicle’s (EV) battery. The SOC is typically expressed as a percentage, with 100% indicating that the battery is fully charged and 0% indicating that the battery is fully discharged.
Models:
- Demand Response: A system that adjusts the electricity demand of electric vehicles (EVs) based on the availability of renewable energy and the real-time price of electricity. Demand response can help to reduce the overall cost of charging EVs and reduce the strain on the electricity grid.
- Smart Charging: A system that optimizes the charging of electric vehicles (EVs) based on various factors, such as the availability of renewable energy, the real-time price of electricity, and the vehicle’s SOC. Smart charging can help to reduce the overall cost of charging EVs and reduce the strain on the electricity grid.
- Smart Energy Management: A system that optimizes the use of energy in electric vehicles (EVs) by predicting the vehicle’s future energy needs and adjusting the charging and discharging of the battery accordingly. Smart energy management can help to improve the efficiency of EVs and reduce their overall energy consumption.
- Vehicle 2 Grid (V2G): A system that allows electric vehicles (EVs) to act as a distributed energy resource (DER) by feeding excess electricity back into the grid. V2G can help to balance the grid by reducing the need for traditional power plants and can also generate revenue for EV owners.
Power:
- Single-phase Power: A type of electrical power that uses a single alternating current (AC) waveform to deliver electricity. Single-phase power is commonly used in residential and small commercial settings.
- Three-phase Power: A type of electrical power that uses three alternating current (AC) waveforms to deliver electricity. Three-phase power is commonly used in industrial and large commercial settings.
Protocols and Standards:
- ISO 15118: A standard that defines the communication between electric vehicles (EVs) and charging stations. ISO 15118 aims to enable interoperability between different EV and charging equipment brands and to facilitate the use of smart charging technologies.
- ISO 15118’s Plug & Charge: A feature of the ISO 15118 standard that allows electric vehicles (EVs) to automatically start charging when plugged into a compatible charging station. Plug & Charge uses a secure communication link between the EV and the charging station to authenticate the charging transaction.
- Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP): An open standard for communication between electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and back-office systems. OCPP enables charging station operators to manage their charging infrastructure and to offer various services to EV drivers, such as billing and roaming.
- Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI): An open standard for communication between electric vehicle (EV) charging networks and roaming hubs. OCPI enables EV drivers to access charging stations from different networks and to pay for charging services using a single account.
- Open Smart Charging Protocol (OCSP) is a standard that defines the communication between electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and a central management system. It allows for the exchange of information such as availability, charging status, and pricing, as well as enabling the management of charging sessions and the integration of charging stations into the grid. OCSP is used by charge point operators, eMSPs, and other stakeholders to optimize the use of charging infrastructure and to provide a seamless experience for EV drivers. It is an open standard, meaning it is not proprietary and can be used by any interested party.
Types of Charging:
- AC Charging: AC charging refers to the charging of electric vehicles (EVs) using alternating current (AC) electricity. AC charging is the most common type of charging and is usually available at most public charging stations and at home using a standard household outlet. AC charging is typically slower than DC fast charging, but it is generally more convenient and less expensive.
- DC Fast Charging: DC fast charging is a type of electric vehicle (EV) charging that uses direct current (DC) electricity to quickly charge the battery of an EV. DC fast chargers are usually located at strategic locations, such as highway rest stops, and can charge an EV to 80% in about 30 minutes. DC fast charging is more expensive and less convenient than AC charging, but it is necessary for long-distance travel or when time is of the essence.
- Private Charging: Private charging refers to the charging of electric vehicles (EVs) at a private location, such as at home or at a workplace. Private charging is convenient, as it allows EV owners to charge their vehicles overnight or during the day while they are at work. Private charging can be done using either AC or DC charging, depending on the available infrastructure and the needs of the EV owner.
- Public Charging: Public charging refers to the charging of electric vehicles (EVs) at publicly accessible locations, such as at a shopping mall, a parking garage, or a rest stop. Public charging is convenient for EV owners who are away from home and need to charge their vehicle while they are out and about. Public charging is usually done using AC charging, but there are also some DC fast charging stations available in certain locations.
- Semi-public Charging: Semi-public charging refers to the charging of electric vehicles (EVs) at locations that are publicly accessible, but not necessarily open to the general public. Semi-public charging can include charging at hotels, airports, or at the workplace. Semi-public charging is convenient for EV owners who are away from home and need to charge their vehicle while they are out and about, but do not have access to public charging stations. Semi-public charging is usually done using AC charging, but there are also some DC fast charging stations available in certain locations.
Types of Vehicles:
- Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV): A battery electric vehicle (BEV) is an electric vehicle (EV) that is powered solely by electricity stored in its batteries. BEVs do not have a gasoline engine and do not produce any emissions. They are typically charged using AC or DC charging stations, and they have a limited range, which depends on the size of the battery and the driving conditions.
- EV (Electric Vehicle): An electric vehicle (EV) is a vehicle that is powered by electricity. EVs can be powered by batteries (battery electric vehicles, or BEVs) or by a combination of batteries and a gasoline engine (hybrid electric vehicles, or HEVs). EVs are generally more efficient and produce fewer emissions than gasoline-powered vehicles.
- Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV): A hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) is a vehicle that is powered by both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. HEVs use the electric motor for low-speed driving and the gasoline engine for high-speed driving or for extended range. HEVs are generally more efficient and produce fewer emissions than gasoline-powered vehicles.
- Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV): A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) is a type of hybrid electric vehicle that can be charged from an external source, such as a wall outlet or a charging station. PHEVs typically have a larger battery pack than traditional hybrids, which allows them to travel a greater distance on electric power alone. When the battery is depleted, the PHEV will switch to its internal combustion engine to generate electricity and continue running. PHEVs offer the benefits of both electric and traditional vehicles, as they can operate in electric mode for short trips, reducing emissions and fuel consumption, while also having the ability to use gasoline for longer trips.
- Plug-in Vehicle (PiV): A plug-in vehicle (PiV) is a type of electric vehicle that can be charged from an external source, such as a wall outlet or a charging station. PiVs can be fully electric (EV) or hybrid electric (PHEV) vehicles, and typically have a larger battery pack than traditional hybrids, which allows them to travel a greater distance on electric power alone. PiVs offer the benefits of both electric and traditional vehicles, as they can operate in electric mode for short trips, reducing emissions and fuel consumption, while also having the ability to use gasoline or another fuel source for longer trips.
- Range-extended EV (REx): A range-extended electric vehicle (REx) is a type of hybrid electric vehicle that uses an electric motor to drive the wheels, with a small internal combustion engine used to generate electricity and extend the vehicle’s range. When the battery is depleted, the internal combustion engine will automatically turn on to generate electricity and power the electric motor, allowing the vehicle to continue running. Range-extended EVs offer the benefits of both electric and traditional vehicles, as they can operate in electric mode for short trips, reducing emissions and fuel consumption, while also having the ability to use gasoline or another fuel source for longer trips.
- Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV): A ultra-low emission vehicle (ULEV) is a vehicle that emits very low levels of exhaust pollutants, typically defined as having emissions of less than 50 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometer. ULEVs can be fully electric (EV), hybrid electric (HEV), or plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) vehicles, and are designed to reduce the environmental impact of transportation. ULEVs offer the benefits of both electric and traditional vehicles, as they can operate in electric mode for short trips, reducing emissions and fuel consumption, while also having the ability to use gasoline or another fuel source for longer trips.
Summary
I hope that this eMobility Terminology page will serve as a valuable resource for founders, CEOs, startups, scaleups, SaaS, and tech companies looking to stay up-to-date on the latest developments and trends within the eMobility space. If you have any questions or would like to connect with me further, please don’t hesitate to contact me through the website or LinkedIn. I’d love to hear from you!