What is ISO-IEC 15118-3:2017?

ISO-IEC 15118-3:2017 is a globally recognized standard for Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) communication, specifically focusing on the communication between electric vehicles and charging infrastructure. This standard provides guidelines and specifications for the implementation of Plug&Charge functionality in electric vehicles and enables seamless authentication and authorization for EV charging.

Benefits of ISO-IEC 15118-3:2017

1. Enhanced User Experience: ISO-IEC 15118-3 simplifies the charging process by eliminating the need for RFID cards or mobile apps. Users can simply plug in their electric vehicles to initiate the charging process, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.

2. Secure Authentication: The standard ensures secure communication between the vehicle and charging infrastructure systems, preventing unauthorized access to the charging process. It incorporates Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) mechanisms to facilitate secure authentication and protection against potential security breaches.

3. Interoperability: ISO-IEC 15118-3 promotes interoperability between different electric vehicle manufacturers and charging infrastructure providers. This enables electric vehicle owners to charge their vehicles at various public charging stations without the need for multiple subscriptions or memberships.

Implementation Challenges

Despite its numerous benefits, implementing ISO-IEC 15118-3 can present several challenges:

1. Technical Compatibility: Both the electric vehicle and charging infrastructure must support the ISO-IEC 15118-3 standard to enable Plug&Charge functionality. Retrofitting existing infrastructure or vehicles may be necessary, which can involve additional costs.

2. Industry Adoption: While ISO-IEC 15118-3 has gained traction, widespread industry adoption is still in progress. This may create inconsistencies in charging infrastructure availability and limit seamless accessibility for electric vehicle owners.

The Future of ISO-IEC 15118-3

ISO-IEC 15118-3 is continuously evolving to meet the changing needs of the electric vehicle industry. As new advancements in technology emerge, the standard will evolve to incorporate improvements in authentication, cybersecurity, and interoperability. Furthermore, efforts are underway to expand the standard's support beyond AC charging to include DC fast charging, enabling faster and more convenient charging options for electric vehicle owners.