ABB has launched new Plug N Charge technology that enables drivers to simply charge and go without having to use a payment card.

The charge starts automatically and when the vehicle is fully charged, payment is automatically authorised. This removes the need for payment cards or fobs at point of use

The new system, which is available globally on the latest model DC chargers with CCS connectors, means that drivers just need to pull up to the charge point and plug the connector into their electric vehicle.

The charge starts automatically and when the vehicle is fully charged, payment is automatically authorised. This removes the need for payment cards or fobs at point of use.

The concept is based on standardised ISO 15118 communication protocol between charge point and EV for secure communication. Once connected, the Plug N Charge point reads the car’s contract certificate – a kind of digital passport – and ensures it is valid by checking with the e-mobility provider’s data in the cloud before authorising the charge.

The process takes a matter of seconds and just requires EV drivers to have a contract certificate from their e-mobility provider, which contains all the information about the service they have purchased. Their car will also need to have ISO 15118 (the recognized standard for vehicle to grid communication) and the ‘Plug N Charge’ feature enabled.

Frank Muehlon, president of ABB’s E-mobility division, said: “Plug N Charge technology has been around for some time, but the industry hasn’t been aligned in the way it has been developed – until now. ABB has driven this standardisation process from the beginning as part of our commitment to delivering a great, universal charging experience.

“We’ve incorporated our own experience of real-world charging sites to make Plug N Charge as user-friendly as possible for drivers, while giving our customers the secure, responsive charging points they want on site. But we aren’t stopping there. We are committed to extending the functionality even further so that more drivers, car OEMs and charge point operators benefit from a simple and streamlined charging experience.”