ISO 15118 is a standard for the communication interface between electric vehicles (EVs)
and the electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), such as charging stations. It is part of
the broader International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and International
Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards for electric road vehicles and electric
vehicle infrastructure.
Key Components of ISO 15118
Plug & Charge (PnC):
Automatic Authentication and Authorization: Enables EVs to automatically
identify themselves to the charging station, simplifying the charging process
by removing the need for additional cards or apps for authentication.
Secure Communication: Ensures secure communication between the EV
and the EVSE using public-key infrastructure (PKI), providing secure and
encrypted data exchange.
Smart Charging:
Dynamic Power Management: Allows for real-time communication about
power needs and grid capacity, enabling dynamic adjustment of charging
rates to balance demand and supply.
Energy Management: Integrates with smart grids to optimize energy
consumption, support renewable energy sources, and manage load distribution.
Bidirectional Power Transfer (Vehicle-to-Grid, V2G):
Energy Storage and Supply: Allows EVs to not only draw power from the
grid but also supply power back to it, effectively turning EVs into mobile
energy storage units that can help stabilize the grid.
User-Friendly Interface:
Seamless Experience: Ensures a smooth and user-friendly experience with
standardized communication protocols, providing users with real-time
information about charging status, costs, and other relevant data.
Benefits of ISO 15118
Convenience: Simplifies the charging process with automatic authentication and
seamless integration with various service providers.
Interoperability: Ensures compatibility between different EVs and charging stations
from various manufacturers.
- Security: Provides a high level of data security through encrypted communication.
Efficiency: Enhances the efficiency of the power grid by supporting smart charging
and V2G capabilities.
Sustainability: Promotes the use of renewable energy and contributes to a more
sustainable energy ecosystem.
Implementation and Adoption
The implementation of ISO 15118 is being actively pursued by car manufacturers, charging
station operators, and energy providers. As the adoption of electric vehicles grows, the
standard is expected to play a crucial role in the development of a robust and user-friendly
EV charging infrastructure.
Future Developments
ISO 15118 continues to evolve, with ongoing efforts to enhance its capabilities and address
emerging needs in the EV ecosystem. Future updates may include advancements in wireless
charging, enhanced cybersecurity measures, and further integration with smart city initiatives.
