Extended EV Ecosystems – A European Perspective

The European Electric Vehicle Ecosystem: An Overview

The European electric vehicle ecosystem is characterized by its rapid growth and diversification. Data reveals that the market for electric vehicles (including both battery electric vehicles [BEVs] and plug-in hybrids) has been expanding at an exponential rate. By 2029, the number of EVs on European roads is expected to cross 5 million, a significant increase from just over 2 million in 2023 (*1)(*2). This growth is mirrored by the expansion of charging stations, with projections indicating over 1.13 million charging points by 2028.

• (*1) Electric Vehicles - Europe | Statista Market Forecast
• (*2) Unit Sales - Electric Vehicles - Europe | Statista Market Forecast

Regulatory Drivers Shaping the EV Landscape

Several key elements are driving the development of the EV ecosystem in Europe. The European Green Deal, which aims for carbon neutrality by 2050, is a cornerstone of these efforts. This ambitious goal necessitates a comprehensive approach to integrating electric vehicles into the broader energy grid. Key milestones include a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, supported by initiatives like the Horizon 2020 Funding Programme, which finances innovative projects in the EV sector.

The Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) is another crucial policy which mandates the development of a unified charging infrastructure across the EU. This regulation sets specific targets for charging capacity to ensure that charging points with at least 150 kW capacity are available every 60 kilometers along major transport routes. By 2025, another element of the AFIR is the requirement for non-discriminatory payment options, enabling ad-hoc payments through any credit card (DC charger), smartphone, QR code (AC charger), and other methods.

Grid integration and energy market interface regulations are also pivotal. Technologies like bi-directional charging enable vehicle-to-grid (V2G) use cases, playing a key role in this integration. They are expected to be fully functional and compatible by 2030. These regulations are essential for optimizing energy consumption, dynamic pricing, and integrating renewable energy sources into the EV ecosystem.

Technological Advancements in EV Charging Infrastructure

The technological landscape of EV charging is evolving rapidly, with innovations that enhance the efficiency, accessibility, and sustainability of charging networks. NTT DATA's NXT Mobility Charge (German) platform exemplifies these advancements. Initially launched in 2012 with the Open Charging Connector (OCC), the platform has undergone significant upgrades, with the latest version, NXT 2.0, featuring a major redesign in architecture and user experience. The platform is not only available in the European market but also supports charging businesses all over the APAC region. Stay tuned for more information on NXT 2.0 in our next article.

One of the key features of modern charging platforms is smart charging, which optimizes energy use based on demand, pricing, and grid capacity. Load balancing, both local and timed, is a critical component, allowing charging networks to adjust energy distribution based on real-time needs. This capability is crucial as the number of EVs increases, placing greater demands on the electrical grid.

Technologies like Plug-and-Charge, which allow for seamless automatic authentication, significantly enhance customer usability. Additionally, the integration of multiple payment options further boosts user convenience.

The end-user experience is vital to product success. While technology is key to enabling diverse EV use cases, user-friendliness will drive success, market adoption, and advance the EV transformation.

NTT DATA has deployed the NXT Mobility Charge platform at its Munich office, offering a seamless charging experience for both employees and visitors. The platform integrates smart charging capabilities to enable corporate charging and semi-public charging.

The NXT Mobility Charge’s PoC in Munich.

NTT DATA's Role in Transforming the Future of EV Charging

For us at NTT DATA, transformation journeys begin with advisory and consulting at its foundation. It is essential to guide clients through the complexities of this rapidly evolving ecosystem. This involves not only understanding the current state of the market but also anticipating future developments and advising on strategic investments in technology and infrastructure. We provide strategic guidance to our clients and help create customized solutions leveraging our deep industry understanding and foresight.

Navigating the regulatory landscape in different European countries is a major challenge as regulations vary significantly. Consultants must help clients comply with regulations like AFIR and the EU Green Deal while optimizing their operations for efficiency and sustainability.

Moreover, technological advancements such as bi-directional charging present new opportunities and challenges. Staying updated on these developments is vital to advising clients on integrating these innovative technologies and planning for the future.

Conclusion

The electric mobility charging ecosystem in Europe is undergoing a major transformation driven by new regulations, technological innovation, and increasing adoption of EVs. Understanding this ecosystem is crucial to navigating the opportunities and challenges it presents. As the market continues to evolve, it will become increasingly important to guide the strategic decisions of our clients, operating within the EV ecosystem. NTT DATA can help shape the future of electric mobility in Europe by staying up to date on regulatory advancements, embracing new regulations and technological breakthroughs. We are driving the shift to a more sustainable and electrified transportation system.

Contact

NTT DATA Group Corporation
Global Marketing & Communication Headquarters
Shinsuke Yoshinaga, Shota Yano
E-Mail: global-marketing@kits.nttdata.co.jp