A Customer-Based Proposal for a Unified Access to Charging Stations for Electric Vehicles

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to introduce a proposal for a unified activation process for charging stations of electric cars. Currently, many providers are searching for feasible applications and implementation of new charging technologies. Due to the fact that there is no unified standard for the activation process, various technologies, methods, processes and applications are offered. These problems are getting worse as more electric cars are used for long distances and as diversity increases. The underlying thesis of this paper is that there are too many different technologies and proprietary dependencies. This diversity leads to frustration and disappointment of customers, who are in search of electricity.
The methodology is empirical, theoretical, analytical and conceptual. The proposal is based on the results of an empirical primary research, which was carried out with an internet-based questionnaire. Selective literature research on existing technologies serves to a solid substantiation for the proposition. The requirements of the customers were analysed and matched with the features of the available technologies. Plug & Charge turned out to be a far superior technology. The conceptual part provides a two-stage solution to close the gap until the critical mass of Plug & Charge capable vehicles is reached.