Transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs) presents new challenges for Fleet Managers, particularly in understanding charging infrastructure. Charging an EV involves more than just plugging it in; it requires an understanding of hardware modes, smart technology, and protocols like the Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP). To understand the detail, FIeet EV News spoke to Ishan Jagaty, Product Manager with JET Charge, who was able to simplify the jargon of networked EV chargers.
The Four Modes of EV Charging
In Australia, EV charging is classified into four modes, with mode one now considered obsolete. “We typically use mode two, three, and four,” Jagaty explained.
Mode Two
Portable or Emergency Charging – “Mode two charging is typically through a power point,” said Jagaty, referring to portable cables often supplied with vehicles. “These are emergency cables intended to get you to the nearest public charging station.”
These chargers provide around 10–12 km of range per hour, sufficient for daily commutes but impractical for significant top-ups after long drives.
Jagaty emphasised safety: “If you’re using them at home, you need a dedicated circuit installed by an electrician. Older homes, especially, might have outdated wiring that isn’t safe for EV charging.”
Mode Three
Home and Workplace Chargers – “Mode three chargers are smarter and faster,” Jagaty noted. “They provide 30 to 40 kilometres of range per hour and come in two variants: one with an attached cable and one with a socket for users to bring their own cable.” These chargers are common in residential garages, workplaces, and fleet depots.
Mode Four
DC Fast Charging – For rapid charging, mode four chargers deliver significant power directly to the vehicle’s battery. “These chargers use rectifier modules to convert electricity faster than the vehicle’s onboard systems,” Jagaty said. “They can range from 25 kW to 300 kW, charging vehicles in minutes instead of hours.”
Why Smart Chargers Are Essential for Fleets
Smart charging is crucial for efficient fleet management. Unlike basic chargers, smart chargers integrate with backend systems, enabling data collection and operational control. Jagaty highlighted the significance of these features:
- Tracking and Reimbursement – “For fleets, it’s important to monitor how much energy is consumed so operators can reimburse employees who charge at home. Without smart chargers, there’s no way to track that data.”
- Access Control – Features like RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) ensure only authorised users can access chargers. “RFID allows fleet operators to lock chargers to specific users or fuel cards,” Jagaty explained. “This is particularly useful when sharing chargers within a workplace.”
- Data Analytics – “Smart chargers provide reporting and analytics on energy use, maintenance needs, and operational stats,” Jagaty said. “This level of insight is critical for efficient fleet management.”
OCPP: The Backbone of Networked EV Chargers
The Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) plays a pivotal role in ensuring interoperability among different chargers and backend systems. According to Jagaty, OCPP has been a game-changer:
- Interoperability – “OCPP allows us to integrate chargers from various manufacturers into one system,” Jagaty said. “This ensures fleet operators aren’t locked into a single brand.”
- Scalability – As fleets grow, OCPP enables seamless integration of additional chargers. “It’s critical for scaling operations without major overhauls,” he added.
- Data Exchange – “OCPP facilitates data sharing between chargers and management platforms,” Jagaty explained. “This transparency is invaluable for cost control and decision-making.”
However, he cautioned that not all chargers are OCPP-compatible. “If the charger isn’t integrated with our systems, we can’t extract the data. Fleet Managers must ensure their hardware aligns with OCPP standards.”
Key Considerations When Selecting EV Chargers
Selecting the right charger involves more than comparing prices. Jagaty outlined several factors to consider:
- Efficiency – Most chargers operate between 90% and 98% efficiency. Higher efficiency reduces energy losses and costs.
- Reliability – Chargers need to run reliably, especially for mission-critical fleets. Downtime isn’t an option.
- User Experience – Cable management systems for DC chargers are often overlooked. Some chargers have heavy cables, making them difficult to use. Good cable management can make a huge difference, especially for users with limited mobility.
- Future-Proofing – Integration with OCPP ensures long-term compatibility as technology evolves. It’s better to invest in future-proof solutions than face expensive upgrades later.
Emerging Technologies in EV Charging
Jagaty also touched on advancements like wireless charging and pantograph systems, which automate charging for buses. “Pantograph charging is already in use in Europe and has proven successful,” he said. “It’s a bit like tram technology, where the bus aligns with a connector that charges it automatically.”
While these technologies are promising, they come with challenges. “Wireless charging has efficiency losses,” Jagaty noted. “But the convenience factor could outweigh these issues as the technology matures.”
Partnering with Experts
Fleet Managers often lack the expertise to navigate the complexities of EV charging. Jagaty highlighted the importance of working with knowledgeable partners: “At JET Charge, we guide clients through selecting the right hardware, integrating it with systems, and maintaining it over time. Price isn’t the only factor—reliability, efficiency, and user experience matter just as much.”
Understanding EV charging hardware and the basics of OCPP is essential for Fleet Managers. With smart chargers, open protocols, and expert guidance, fleets can transition to electric vehicles efficiently and cost-effectively.
As Jagaty put it: “The market is evolving, and fleet managers have an exciting opportunity to lead the way in adopting sustainable transport solutions.”
By embracing these technologies, Fleet Managers can future-proof their operations and contribute to a cleaner, greener future.
