Plug and Charge is a technology that lets drivers pay for EV charging simply by connecting their car to a compatible charging station. No cards, apps, or manual authentication is required. Based on ISO 15118 and supported by the CCS standard, Plug and Charge offers seamless, secure, and automated charging for electric vehicles.
Key benefits include:
- Automatic authentication: Drivers just plug in, so there is no need for RFID cards, apps, or accounts.
- Secure payments: Encrypted communication ensures safe transactions.
- Ultimate convenience: Charging begins instantly and reliably with one simple step.
What is Plug and Charge?
Plug and Charge, often abbreviated as PnC, is an advanced EV charging technology defined by the ISO 15118 standard. It allows an electric vehicle (EV) to identify itself to the charging station automatically and securely. This enabes charging and billing without any manual intervention from the driver. This creates a seamless charging experience that removes the need for RFID cards, smartphone apps, or credit card readers.
Unlike traditional charging methods that require RFID cards, mobile apps, or credit card payments at the charging station, Plug and Charge creates a seamless experience where drivers simply connect their vehicle to a compatible charger and everything else happens automatically behind the scenes.
The technology works across various charging standards, including CCS (Combined Charging System) connectors. It leverages secure digital certificates to establish trust between the vehicle and the charging station. While most public charging networks are adopting the standardized ISO 15118 protocol, Tesla’s Supercharger network operates its own proprietary version of plug-and-charge functionality for Tesla vehicles.
What are the key benefits of Plug and Charge?
Plug and Charge greatly simplifies the charging process, making it faster and more efficient.
The key benefits of this technology for both EV drivers and charge point operators include:
- No need to worry about compatibility with charging stations
- Faster service at charging points thanks to standardized adapters
- Shorter overall charging sessions
- Support for wireless charging further simplifies the experience
- Fewer customer service issues to resolve
The current regulatory state of Plug and Charge
The adoption of Plug and Charge is closely tied to regional regulations and standards:
European Union:
The EU has been proactive in mandating interoperability and consumer-friendly EV charging practices. ISO 15118 is increasingly being integrated into charging networks, ensuring compatibility across multiple brands and stations. The EU’s Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) further supports harmonized charging standards.
United States:
Plug and Charge has gained traction through initiatives like Electrify America and other CCS-based networks. The U.S. Department of Energy and SAE International support ISO 15118 as a pathway to improving charging infrastructure.
United Kingdom:
The UK aligns with EU-level standards, promoting ISO 15118 adoption and ensuring OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol) compatibility for flexibility across different Charge Point Operators.
As regulations evolve, Plug and Charge is expected to become the default authentication method for public charging. This, in turn, will complement other industry standards like OCPP for backend communication.
Why is Plug and Charge important to the EV charging industry?
Plug and Charge benefits not only EV drivers and charge point operators but the entire EV ecosystem. Here’s why:
- Seamless charging: Drivers simply plug in and the session begins, eliminating the need for cards, RFID tags, or mobile apps.
- Enhanced security: Built-in cryptographic tools protect personal data, vehicle systems, and the charging network from third-party threats.
- Efficient billing: Each EV is linked to a billing account—personal, family, or corporate—ensuring accurate tracking and simplified payments for both drivers and operators.
- Future-ready technology: With ISO 15118 integration, Plug and Charge sets the stage for the future of EV charging, combining security and convenience. As wireless charging advances, the process will become even more seamless.
How does Plug and Charge work?
At its core, Plug and Charge relies on digital certificates and encrypted communication between the vehicle and the charging station. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- Connection: The driver plugs the EV into a Plug and Charge–enabled charging station using a CCS connector.
- Handshake: The EV and the charging station establish a secure connection, based on ISO 15118 protocols.
- Authentication: The EV sends a digital certificate (stored in its onboard system) to the charger. This certificate is validated through a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) managed by trusted authorities.
- Charging Session: Energy transfer begins automatically. The driver doesn’t need to do anything further.
- Billing: At the end of the session, payment is processed securely, and the driver’s account is billed.
By adopting Plug & Charge, stakeholders across the EV industry—such as charging station manufacturers, charge point operators, and vehicle makers—can improve the user experience while ensuring a secure future for electric vehicle charging.
As the EV market expands, technologies like Plug & Charge will play a crucial role in accelerating adoption and redefining how automakers envision the future of the industry.
3 things to consider before implementing Plug and Charge
- Older Vehicles
Legacy electric vehicles without ISO 15118 capability cannot take advantage of Plug and Charge functionality. These vehicles will continue to require traditional authentication methods like RFID cards, mobile apps, or credit card payments at charging stations.
Organizations planning charging infrastructure should consider their existing fleet composition and plan for a transition period where multiple authentication methods remain necessary. Retrofit solutions for older vehicles are generally not available due to the hardware and software requirements for secure certificate management.
- Legislation
Regulatory requirements vary significantly by region and continue to evolve. While European markets are moving aggressively toward ISO 15118 mandates, other regions may have different timelines or technical requirements.
Charge point operators must stay informed about local regulations, interoperability requirements, and certification processes. Compliance with data privacy regulations like GDPR adds additional complexity to implementation, requiring careful attention to data handling and user consent processes.
- Adoption of Emerging Technology
Although Plug and Charge is seen as future-proof, it has yet to gain widespread adoption. Operators need to assess whether their networks and customers are ready for it. Investing in ISO 15118-ready chargers can secure long-term competitiveness, though it may require upfront costs for upgrades and certifications.
What makes Plug and Charge different from other charging methods?
Plug and Charge removes the need for apps, RFID cards, or membership accounts at the charging point. Once an EV is plugged in, it automatically authenticates and starts charging, creating a seamless and hassle-free experience.
How secure is Plug and Charge?
Security is built into the core of Plug & Charge. Using the ISO 15118 standard, it relies on encryption, digital certificates, and two-way authentication to protect vehicle data, personal information, and the charging infrastructure from cyber threats.
What role does ISO 15118 play in Plug and Charge?
ISO 15118 is the international standard that makes Plug & Charge possible. It ensures interoperability across manufacturers, while also setting the framework for secure communication, accurate billing, and streamlined user experiences.
How does billing work with Plug and Charge
Each EV is linked to a verified billing account (personal, corporate, or fleet). When the vehicle charges, consumption data is logged automatically, and the account is billed— eliminating manual payments or multiple authentication steps.
Which electric vehicles support Plug & Charge?
Most new EVs manufactured after 2022 are built with Plug & Charge compatibility. Brands like Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Ford, Porsche, Cupra, Skoda, and Genesis already offer models with this functionality, while software updates are rolling out for select older vehicles.
Does Tesla support Plug & Charge?
Yes. Some Tesla models are compatible with Plug & Charge technology, though support depends on regional charging standards and software updates.
What makes Plug and Charge different from other charging methods?
Although adoption is growing, industry-wide rollout is slowed by the need for standardization of digital certificates and interoperability among networks and manufacturers. Broader availability is expected as these challenges are resolved.
When will Plug & Charge be widely available?
Although adoption is growing, industry-wide rollout is slowed by the need for standardization of digital certificates and interoperability among networks and manufacturers. Broader availability is expected as these challenges are resolved.
Which charging networks currently support Plug & Charge?
Major European and global networks supporting Plug & Charge include Ionity, Allego, BP, Shell, Enel, Iberdrola, E.ON Drive, Mer, and Aral, with more networks gradually joining.
Are there alternatives to Plug & Charge?
Yes. AutoCharge is a popular alternative that also allows drivers to start charging automatically by simply plugging in. Unlike Plug & Charge, it is less complex, but it does not yet offer the same level of security and standardization.
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