Called as E-Mobility B2B Marketplace, the system is based on IBM software and SmartCloud Enterprise, aiming to creates a scalable open-standard environment that enables manufacturers and service providers to link their various services according to consumer and industry requirements.
Part of the Green eMotion project of the EU, the system will allow energy providers, car manufacturers, and charging station owners to share and integrate services on one common IT platform.
This will create a network of EV charging services that are compatible regionally in Europe, allowing drivers to charge their vehicle and pay in any location across borders and geographies, regardless of their energy provider – an approach similar to international roaming for mobile phones.
This project aims to allow cross network communication between multiple charging stations and various utility companies, in any territory. As a result, EV drivers can travel with no worry about being too far from an allocated charge post, or one supported by their provider.
Owners of utilities will benefit, too, as the IT platform provides interoperable standards and payment support, reducing potential management issues with financial settlement and international conversion.
The Green eMotion project is part of the European Green Cars Initiative (EGCI) that was launched by Siim Kallas, vice president of the European Commission, on 31 March 31 2011. The goal is to lay the the foundation for the mass deployment of Europe-wide electromobility by 2015
The project has a total budget of €42 million and will be funded by the European Commission with €24 million. This is also part of the broader European Recovery Plan to reduce C02 emissions by 60 % by the year 2050.
"This marketplace will pave the way for the electromobility mass market in Europe. It allows for open access to charging spots throughout Europe thus making the journey with an e-car simple and convenient," said Dr. Heike Barlag, Siemens AG, Project Coordinator Green eMotion.
There are 43 partners of the Green eMotion project working on the technology initiatives, including energy providers, electric car manufacturers, as well as cities and research institutions.
Enel, SAP and Siemens, and IBM are actively engaging in the project.
“Green eMotion is spearheading many key developments that have the potential to reinvent Europe's complex transportation system and energy infrastructure. For other countries around the world, there is a lot to be learned from this initiative," said Clay Luthy, IBMGlobal Distributed Energy Resource Leader.
"Our goal is to help add a new layer of intelligence to the electric vehicle market and a new level of convenience to the driver through the Green eMotion project. We believe the demonstration project will foster innovation and further transformation across a larger geographical footprint."
IBM is involved in more than 150 smart grid engagements around the world, in both mature and emerging markets. Similar to the recently announced project with ESB Networks IBM is helping to improve power grid reliability, encourage EV adoption amongst consumers, and address the challenges of financial and billing settlement – by combining cloud and analytic capabilities.