Executive Summary
EV Experience proposes an affordable, user- and system-friendly Plug&Charge solution.
Based on open-source services, smart contracts and distributed ledger technology with a strong emphasis on consumer centricity, our solution is internationally scalable and future-proof. Consequently, the exponentially growing EV fleet can be deployed sustainably in the energy transition to stay connected when not driving in a strong collaborative model.
Challenge & Opportunity
Problem: what’s not ideal regarding the current situation?
AC-charging: a multitude of closed-loop system providers, no open access, no transparency, archaic transactions.
The Vision
EV Experience, a commitment to consumer centricity. Our Value Proposition:
(1) Unburdening the EV-driver who wants to charge at least as comfortable than fueling up her ICE car
(2) Connecting the digital meter to the charger and processing the charging sessions in an automated system that needs no human intervention
(3) Providing access to any connected charger and allowing smart and system-friendly charging
(4) Ensuring comfort, freeing the driver from range anxiety – at affordable and transparent prices
The Product
Our solution aims to connect any EV driver with any market provider – at any possible charge point.
The Data Approach
Process: how are we going to do this?
Transaction authorization, processing and settlement: to-be situation (B2B2E).
–> Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) enables undisputed transaction flows: Our solution EV Smart Connector consists of a DLT-based back-end, combined with a user app and the SmartBox device.
The scope of the sandboxing phase
EV Experience, a commitment to consumer centricity. Our Value Proposition:
1 | PoC of Exchange of energy blocks (“portability”)
Transaction registration, processing & settlement. Set-up open & secure general distributed ledger technology (i.e., blockchain backend)
2 | PoC of Smart contracting
Asset identification, authentication, authorization – leading to transaction execution. Go into strategic, long-term partnership with providers of API on blockchain (e.g., Energy Web Foundation or others).
3 | PoC of Value proposition
Packaging the use case in an attractive product/service ready for the market. Assess and validate the market readiness, commercial viability, go-to-market strategy & user acceptance.
4 | PoC of User app
Providing information regarding insights about car battery status and charging expenses + override button. Functional & visual design of a user app (mock-ups).
5 | Prototype of Charging Infrastructure
Delivery of well performing hardware. Design & develop the Charge Point & Smartbox (load balancing) assets.
6 | PoC of Customer Centric Market Design as supporting framework
Facilitate roll-out of enabling environment (CCMD: consumer-centric market design – new market model).
7 | Integration into seamless EV.E process
Bringing together different Sandboxing activities.
8 | Pilot to test our solution in the market
Both technically (EV drivers) and business-wise (market-readiness of e.g., fleet owners, energy suppliers…). Need to test our solution in terms of viability and readiness in the market (pilot with EV drivers, sounding board session with market parties (e.g., fleet owners, energy suppliers…).
The sandbox results
1 | Where the hypotheses validated?
(a.) We can swap meter data based on digital meter for portability? Yes, PoC – lab environment
(b.) We can partner with EasyBat or Energy Web Foundation for smart contracting? Yes, currently linked with EWF.
(c.) We can assess and validate the business model, go-to-market strategy & value case? Yes, will be completed in the next couple of weeks.
(d.) General distributed ledger technology provides openness & security? Yes, currently busy implementing DID’s to create secure database management.
(e.) We can develop a functioning user app? Yes, app launch foreseen in April 2022.
(f.) We can develop the well performing hardware? Yes, prototype delivered November 2021, pilot at several locations in Belgium as of April 2022.
2 | What are the lessons learned?
As we haven’t completed the Sandboxing phase, we’re still learning.
3 | What are the next steps?
Completing the Sandboxing phase in the next 3 to 6 months. Afterwards Go-to-Market preparations with MVP.
Members
Maurane Deboutte Accenture
Kristof De Vree Alien Mobility
Frank Ulrich Alien Mobility
Freddy Van Bogget KBC
Partners
Consortium Overview: a perfect match of skills & expertise!
The EV Experience team was formed to stimulate open innovation in the EV charging market – with the customer/user at the heart of it.
Develops and markets ‘eMobility as a Service’ as technology solution provider & hardware manufacturer. Wants to enable a seamless e-driving experience through EV charging solutions and smart connections.
To deliver on the promise of technology & human ingenuity for the energy and mobility transition that Utilities are going through: facing mass demand electrification, decentralized supply decarbonization and a new focus on connected user-centricity.
EV charging transactions are increasing in volume of micro value. We want to help the EV charging industry apply distributed ledger technologies to process & settle transactions fully automated; ensuring efficiency & affordability for all involved parties.
Owns & operates the Belgian transmission grid and acts as market facilitator. We want to shape a consumer-centric electricity market design, by implementing concept of exchange of energy blocks (EoEB). A consumer-centric market will unlock a better EV experience.
Electric mobility is an essential part of the energy transition in Flanders. Fluvius wants to make the distribution network ‘future-proof’ and create new possibilities for all customers.
