A Sea Change for Electric Vehicle Charging: Universal Plug-and-Charge Protocol Coming Soon

The Charging Conundrum

Frustration abounds when it comes to charging an electric vehicle (EV). Finding an accessible and available charging station, charging up, and paying for the service before hitting the road have been a far from seamless experience for many US drivers. But that’s about to change.

A Game-Changer in the Making

The Biden administration and a private consortium of charging networks, automakers, and infrastructure middle-players have announced an initiative to establish a universal plug-and-charge protocol for all EVs in the US by 2025. This means that with one plug, EV owners will be able to charge their vehicles at any public station in the country without the hassle of multiple apps or payment methods.

Raise the Bar for Charging

For Gabe Klein, Executive Director of the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation, the new protocol is more than just a convenience – it’s a game-changer. “Universal Plug & Charge levels up the electric fueling experience – making it even easier than filling up with gas,” Klein says. “We are rapidly approaching a future where every EV driver can just plug in, charge up, and go; the network will talk to your car and process the payment seamlessly.”

Bridging the Gap

According to a recent study by research firm Accenture, 57% of EV buyers have cited charging infrastructure concerns as a major deterrent, along with high upfront costs and lifestyle disruptions. Yet, charging infrastructure has been rapidly expanding in the US, with companies like Chargepoint, Tesla, and Electrify America investing heavily in the sector. Even retailers like Costco and Walmart are getting in on the action, adding EV-charging capacity to their stores.

Moving Towards a Seamless Experience

Right now, EV drivers still face a fragmented charging experience due to varying charging port types and multiple apps required for charging and payment. But the new universal plug-and-charge protocol promises to eliminate these barriers, allowing vehicles, chargers, and charging networks to “talk to each other” for the first time.

Faster, Automated Charging, Anywhere

With the new protocol, EV drivers will enjoy faster, automated charging without the need for multiple apps or payment methods. Whether you’re on the highway or in a city center, you’ll be able to plug in and power up with ease. Say goodbye to the hassle of hunting for charging stations, tracking down payment apps, or dealing with outdated charging equipment. The future of electric vehicle charging is here.