Emobi and Autocrypt have announced what they claim to be the first U.S.-based Plug & Charge ecosystem for electric vehicle (EV) charging with artificial intelligence (AI). In June 2023, Autocrypt, an automotive cybersecurity firm, partnered with Emobi, a U.S.-based e-mobility hub, to develop a secure communication framework for EVs and charging stations based on ISO 15118-2 and ISO 15118-20 standards. The collaboration has focused on building a robust public key infrastructure (PKI) using AI and machine learning models to address errors and data inconsistencies prevalent in traditional Plug & Charge systems.

EV drivers can start charging their vehicles at any Plug & Charge station by just plugging it in. The chargers automatically identify the EV using asymmetric encryption technology and securely process the payment of the EV charging session. This is the first Plug & Charge ecosystem headquartered in the United States, the partners claim, and thus must comply with U.S. government data security standards. The ecosystem also features an intelligent error-handling system that addresses edge cases in ISO 15118 standards.

Throughout this collaboration, Emobi has worked closely with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory to ensure that findings from this ecosystem contribute to the National Charging Experience (ChargeX) Consortium, funded by the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation of the United States.

“Security in EV charging infrastructure enhances openness while providing better control,” said Sean HJ Cho, president of Autocrypt North America, in a press release. “By combining our PKI technology with Emobi’s expertise in AI and machine learning, we are bringing a secure yet innovative Plug & Charge solution to market, creating an unrestricted charging environment that ensures convenience, precision, and security throughout the entire charging and payment processes.”

“The focus is to enable EV automakers, charger operators, and e-mobility service providers to continue building their products without being hindered by edge cases and constantly evolving standards,” said Lin Sun Fa, Emobi CEO, in a press release. “We are leveraging AI and Autocrypt’s PKI technology within the existing ISO 15118 standards, ensuring ease of implementation while improving charging infrastructure quality and security.”