Methodology
connect‘s and umlaut‘s first joint charging network test is based on numerous test drives with frequent charging stops, extensive practical tests and logging the charging experiences at location – as well as on additional research.
Our test focuses on High Power Charging (HPC) stations with a wattage of at least 150 KW. As our candidates, we chose the top charge point operators according to the overall number of their charging stations as published in the charge point register of the German Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur). For the electric mobility providers, we selected the three most popular vendors according to the ”Charging Map Compass“ of the e-mobility information platform emobly.
The test drives for our first charging network test were conducted between April 28th and June 2nd, 2020. The teams rotated between the two test vehicles Mercedes EQC and Porsche Taycan. Our test routes led from Munich to Aachen and back, while including purposeful detours for stopovers at some charging stations scheduled for testing. Our test routes were selected to facilitate eight charging stops per tour. The testers distributed these stops in such a way that they could assess three charging procedures for each tested charge point operator. (With the exception of E.ON, as we could only identify one feasible HPC charging location during the preparation phase of our test.)
During the charging stops, we reviewed both ad-hoc charging (charging without using one of the electric mobility providers‘ apps) as well as prearranged charging and possibly pre-registration via the apps incorporated in the tests.
During charging, the testers filled out detailed checklists about the conditions at the charging spot, about the charging process itself and about possible errors. While charging, they also contacted the hotlines of the providers, in order to assess their service quality. If a technical error occured during charging, we switched to a different charge point of the same provider and repeated the attempt.
The assessment is based on the criteria in the tables belows as well as on different subitems. When assessing the electro mobilty providers, we also factored in the coverage of supported charge points in Germany. The according numbers were inquired in mid May from the press departments of the tested providers.
However, when assessing the charge point operators, we decided to abstain from scoring the number of supported charge points, as the tested companies have very different focal points in this regard: For example, Ionity focuses solitarily on HPC charge points alongside the autobahn, while utility companies such as E.ON or EnBW push the expansion of charging locations within their service areas.
App-wise: As far as possible, the testers used the apps of the considered electro mobility providers.
By stages: The test routes were designed so that charging of the cars was possible and reasonable.
Optimized for charging stops: The routes included as many charge points as possible.
More than usual: The drivers interrupted their tours more frequently that e-car users would need to.
Up to speed: During the charge stops, the teams filled out checklists and called the providers’ hotlines.
Hakan Ekmen, Managing Director umlaut (l.) in discussion with connect’s editor in chief Marc-Oliver Bender (r.).
Interview:
"We want to actively shape the future of e-mobility.“
umlaut is known for its worldwide mobile network tests.
Why is umlaut now also testing charging infrastructure?
Hakan Ekmen: From its foundation 24 years ago, umlaut has been active in many segments and industries. At the very top: Automotive, Energy, Aviation and Telecommunications. The increasing cross-linking of these industries blurs the lines – telecommunication being the tie beween the different segments. Thus, interbranch testing is a logical consequence and at the same time an entension of our expertise. Ultimately, our experience from the network tests is contributing to this as well. The independent, neutral and fair assessment of modern digital infrastructures is always predominant.
What was the focus of the new charging infrastructure test?
Motorists are used to getting from A to B without anxiously looking at the level meter. Thus, for the acceptance of e-mobility, a reliable charging infrastructure with a comprehensive coverage of charging stations is an indispensable requirement. In addition to locations and functionality, we have considered many more factors around the stations. For example: Is there a free WiFi available in order to use the apps also without mobile coverage? Furthermore, the procedure of charging should be designed as user-friendly and as easy as possible. Part of this is price transparency, payment options for ad-hoc charging and not least user-friendly apps.
How do you assess the results?
For a technology which is still emerging, the results are all in all pleasing. But they show still room for improvements. This is also true for the providers which have earned a good grade in our assessment. From our experience from the mobile network tests, operators see such independent tests as a stimulus to further enhance their infrastructure and optimize their offerings to the advantage of the customers and users.
What is your stance about the future of electric mobility? Which challenges must be met?
The future of electric mobility has already begun, e-mobility is leaving its mark on our cityscapes. In addition to obvious challenges such as range and the availability of charging stations, numerous additional factors are equally important for a future success. For example, the growing interconnectedness requires investments in the buildup of key technologies such as 5G. The smart car communicates with other cars, and increasingly also with the infrastructure such as charging stations. At this point, the aspect of the data transports‘ security plays a decisive role. All of this leads to the vanishing of classic borders between various industries and different applications. Be it 5G, the connected car, e-mobiliy or security: With our cross-sectoral know-how, we keep our eyes on all important factors and want to actively shape the future of e-mobilty. In order to achieve this, we offer end-to-end engineering, consulting and management services for topics such as batteries, vehicles, charging infrastructure and the entire eco system.
What are the future plans?
We would like to analyze and assess the charging infrastructure all over Europe. Above that, we examine the connectivity in vehicles, trains and airplanes – the keywords are Connected Car and Inflight Connectivity. And of course we also continue to develop our network tests.