The fragmented and frustrating nature of the current EV charging landscape is set to change with the launch of a universal "Plug and Charge" protocol in 2025. This new framework, announced by a partnership between nonprofit SAE International, a consortium of automakers and EV charging operators, and the Biden administration, aims to deliver a truly seamless and hassle-free charging experience.

Currently, EV owners face a multitude of challenges when charging their vehicles, including the need to sign up for multiple EV charging apps, fumble through payment information, and authorize accounts. The new protocol seeks to eliminate these barriers, allowing users to simply plug in their vehicles and start charging, with the entire process handled automatically in the cloud.

The "Plug and Charge" protocol is based on the official international standard (ISO 15118), which enables automatic charging and payment as soon as the car is plugged in. While this technology is already available in dozens of models, its adoption has been limited due to the need for individual deals between automakers and third-party charging companies. The new framework aims to simplify and secure this process, enabling a universal and interoperable charging experience.

The SAE-led effort includes several unique features, including a Certified Trust List to enable secure, automated authentication when the vehicle is plugged in. This trust list enables roaming, allowing the technology to use multiple Public Key Infrastructures (PKIs) interoperably, promoting competition in the marketplace.

According to Sarah Hipel, acting chief technology officer at the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation, the trust list is "kind of like a big file folder" that allows manufacturers to access different routes and secure their charges through authorization and authentication. Hipel expects most manufacturers to use the existing ISO standard for their charging controls and then the PKI mechanism to secure the charge.

The framework was developed through an agreement between SAE International's Industry Technologies Consortia, the Electric Vehicle Public Key Infrastructure Consortium, and the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation. The project, which has cost around $1.5 million so far, is an industry-led initiative funded by participating companies, including major charging providers like BP Pulse, ChargePoint, and Electrify America, as well as automakers like Ford, General Motors, Tesla, Rivian, Toyota, and BMW.

Beyond seamless charging, the new protocol is expected to bring additional benefits, such as secure vehicle-to-grid (V2G) communication and bidirectional charging, enabling EVs to send energy back to the grid and help balance out power loads. This will contribute to a more resilient grid and address concerns about the current energy system's ability to support an all-electric vehicle fleet.

Despite the change in administration, the participants believe the project will survive, citing the industry-led nature of the initiative and the market dynamics that have taken over. As Gabe Klein, executive director of the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation, noted, "The ship has sort of sailed, if you will. And the market dynamics I think have taken over, which is great."

The launch of the universal "Plug and Charge" protocol in 2025 is expected to play a significant role in promoting the adoption of electric vehicles, making it easier for consumers to transition to sustainable transportation options. As the EV market continues to grow, this development is likely to have a profound impact on the industry, paving the way for a more convenient, efficient, and environmentally friendly future for transportation.