The 10 Fastest Growing EVs Solution Providers 2018

www.insightssuccess.com September 2018

E-Mobility:

Pioneering Trnsformation With Smart Grid

Wireless Charging:

Pioneering Transportation with Smart Grid- E-mobility

Laurence Chan CEO & Founder

Hong Kong EV Power :

Cli Wu

General Manager

Shaping the Future of Electric Transport

www.insightssuccess.com September 2018

EV Solutions: Driving the Future of Transport

E-Mobility:

Pioneering Trnsformation With Smart Grid

Wireless Charging:

Pioneering Transportation with Smart Grid- E-mobility

Laurence Chan CEO & Founder

Hong Kong EV Power :

Cliff Wu

General Manager

Shaping the Future of Electric Transport

T

echnological developments, revolutionary mechanics and a need to transcend from combustible substances, all converged for the conception of a marvel on wheels. Electric Vehicles, which came into existence in the mid-19th century, are redefining the ways of commuting and transporting. A kindling interest in developing EVs has been incited by the environmental effects of vehicles powered by non-renewable sources of energy.

The energy consumed by EVs can be derived from a range of sources, nuclear energy, and also renewable sources like tidal energy, solar energy, and wind energy or a combination of any of these.

The on board battery stores the energy using flywheel or super capacitors. The application of regenerative braking, which initiates the recovery of kinetic energy is also one of the reasons of a surge in the demand of EVs. The battery cost exhibiting a significant nosedive has led EVs to become a profoundly reformative technology. The overall cost of EV ownership is commendably lower than gasoline-powered vehicles. Along with this, savings on annoying maintenance costs, oil changes, replacing belts, and transmission repairs become seldom.

To shed light over organizations which cater to the development of the EV industry, Insights Success has curated a list of “The 10 Fastest Growing EVs Solution Providers, 2018,” which are excelling their provision of best-in-class EV solutions that incessantly advocate ingenuity in technological innovation and universal services.

Our Cover Story features Hong Kong EV Power, which provides comprehensive and professional EV charging solutions including the EV charging stations. It is a prominent expert in Electric Vehicle (EV) charging aimed to widen the adoption of EV in Hong Kong and China.

The organization aims to widen the adoption of EV in Hong Kong. It provides solutions which are suitable for different types of EV cars to use, to all kinds of customers like individuals, corporates, power utilities and governments, as well as operating EV charging stations.

Hong Kong EV Power is aiming to deliver reliable EV charging services to drivers and making sure that there is no concern regarding the same. However, it is in the process to build 5000 more charging stations by the end of 2018.

In this issue, we have also enlisted companies which are providing insightful and innovative solutions to enhance the applications of SAP. IES Synergy which is leading company recognized for advanced electric vehicle battery charging solutions; EVBox which is the leading global manufacturer of electric vehicle charging stations and charging management software; CLEVER which is the leading electric mobility operator in Scandinavia; EO Charging which is one of UK’s leading electric vehicle charging manufacturers, which design chargers for homes, fleets and destinations; Blink Charging which is a leading owner, operator and provider of electric vehicle charging equipment and networked EV charging services; Local Motors which is a ground mobility company, focused on shaping the future for the better; KULR Technology which aims to make EVs more efficient by improving the performance and safety of their batteries and high-performance components. OVO Energy which is UK’s largest independent energy technology company and supplier; and Wall Box Chargers which is focused in helping the EV industry to make electric and plug in hybrid cars an attractive alternative to more traditional ways of transportation.

Also, make sure to scroll through the articles written by our in-house editorial team and CXO standpoints of some of the leading industry experts to have a brief taste of the sector.

Let’s start reading!

Hitesh Dhamani

Cover Story

10 Hong Kong EV Power: Shaping the Future of Electric Transport

Articles

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38

E-Mobility

Digi Connection

Rechrging Movement

E-Mobility: Pioneering Transportation with Smart Grid

BeneďŹ ts of Blockchain in the making of Smarter Energy Grids

Wireless Charging: Future of Green Automotive

50

Contents 20 Blink Charging:

18

Crafting Innovative EV Charging Services

Mentor’s Opinion How Technology is Changing Supply Chain Management for the Better

26 Clever:

32

Paving the Way for Sustainable Mobility

Expert’s Forsights Electrovaya Lithium-ion batteries: Powering Electro-Mobility Since 1996

28 58 Internet of Internet Internet of Things is present in every product we use. How has IOT changed the lives of humans?

EO Charging: Leading the charge for electric vehicles

36 EVBox: An Energized Approach Shaping the EVs’ Market

42

IES Synergy: Crafting Innovative EV Charging Services

44 KULR Technology: Delivering Top-notch Thermal Management Solutions

48 Local Motors: Shaping the Future for Better

54 OVO Energy: Delivering Eective Energy Solutions

56 Wallbox:

Crafting Innovative EV Charging Services

Managing Editor Anish Miller Executive Editor Hitesh Dhamani Assistant Editors Jenny Fernandes Abhishaj Sanjeev Contributing Editors Kaustav Roy Shubham Khampariya Visualiser David King Art & Design Director Amol Kamble Associate Designer Sanket Zirpe Co-designer Priyanka Rajage Art & Picture Editors Paul Belin Jayant Khanna Senior Sales Manager Passi D. Business Development Manager Peter Collins Marketing Manager John Matthew Business Development Executives Roy, Joe, Alan, Yogesh Sales Executives David, Kevin, Mark, Sagar Technical Head Jacob Smile Technical Specialists Amar, Pratiksha Digital Marketing Manager Marry D’Souza Online Marketing Strategists Alina Sege, Shubham, Vaibhav K SME-SMO Executives Prashant Chevale, Uma Dhenge, Gemson, Irfan Research Analyst Chidiebere Moses Circulation Managers Robert, Tanaji Database Management Stella Andrew Technology Consultant David Stokes sales@insightssuccess.com

September, 2018 Corporate Ofces: Insights Success Media Tech LLC 555 Metro Place North, Suite 100, Dublin, OH 43017, United States Phone - (614)-602-1754 Email: info@insightssuccess.com For Subscription: www.insightssuccess.com

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Laurence Chan CEO & Founder

Hong Kong EV Power :

Shaping the Future of Electric Transport

Cliff Wu General Manager

‘‘

We Are The Only Company Providing Holistic Charging Services In Hong Kong.

‘‘

Charles Lui

Cliff Wu

Elvis Chung

Jonathan Law

T

he speed at which automotive industry is growing, electric vehicles no longer seem like a dream of the future. According to a UBS global auto survey, it is estimated that one in six new cars in the world will be electric by the year 2025. The emergence of electric vehicle has revolutionized the way people commute.

‘‘

We promise to provide a convenient, safe and cost-effective charging solution for all EV drivers and various companies.

This disruptive trend of electric vehicles is expected to continue, especially with the billions of dollars that auto manufacturers are investing in these vehicles. Traditional automakers including General Motors, Volkswagen, Daimler AG, and others are all investing heavily in electric vehicles.

With the influx of electric vehicles into the market comes an essential need for charging infrastructure. Being an EV charging solution pioneer, Hong Kong EV Power Limited is leading the market with the best charging solutions and standards.

In an interview with Hong Kong EV Power, the CEO and Founder, Laurence Chan, and, the General Manager, Cliff Wu, shared their insights on EV Charging Infrastructure and how Hong Kong EV Power is contributing in it.

Give a brief overview of the company and its vision.

Laurence and Cliff: Hong Kong EV Power, a member of EV Power Group and a spinoff company from AMOS Enterprises Limited, is a fastest-growing Hong Kong company with two of its brands, EV Power and

‘‘

E-Charge. We aim to widen the adoption of EVs in Hong Kong. We provide comprehensive and professional EV charging solutions including the EV station, which is suitable for different types of EV cars to use, to all kinds of customers like individuals, corporates, power utilities and governments, as well as operating EV charging stations.

Initially, our financing history was smooth, compared to other startups in Hong Kong. The seed funding came largely from personal savings and earnings from projects undertaken by us. In August 2011, after a fundraising exercise period of some five months, we succeeded in raising HK$3 million through three angels from the HKBAN. In this way, we went on raising further investments. Focus Media, a Chinese company which operates the largest out-of-home advertising network in that country, is one of the largest investor of our company.

The Group’s business has been expanded to Mainland China since 2014 and currently covers 30 cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hong Kong and Macau. We are promoting the use of electric vehicles in Hong Kong and China by providing a convenient, safe and cost-effective charging solution for all EV drivers and various companies. We hope to turn the city to be greener and more environmental friendly.

What are the cutting-edge products/services offered by Hong Kong EV Power Limited?

Laurence and Cliff: We provide our clients with a variety of services including installation for private charging, consultancy and design for public charging, training for charging system, management, operation and maintenance of charging stations, as well as the internet connection for the charging stations. Our products cover car park charging network system, car park management system, medium charger and quick charger. The chargers are connected by E-Charge, which is a platform that drivers can look up the real-time status of all charging stations and can inspect the charging progress. With the increasing charging infrastructure, EV drivers can enjoy a safe and user-friendly charging experience.

Over 200 car parks in Hong Kong have installed our charging stations and more than 50 of them allow public access. We have served many residential and corporate clients. Currently, we are the public charging partners of Porsche, BMW, Hyundai, Mercedes Benz, Jaguar Land Rover and DFSK. In addition to this, we are the leading residential charging service provider in the market.

Hong Kong EV Power has been invited to speak and exhibit in the “Smart EV Smart Charging” Seminar hosted by HK Electric on 28 September 2016.

‘‘

the charger at home to use electric vehicles in the first place, and then try to solve the problem of home charging.

We are the only company providing holistic charging services in Hong Kongfor all EV drivers and various companies.

‘‘

How does Hong Kong EV Power offer more value than its competitors?

Laurence and Cliff: When people cheer heartily for convenience and pollution-free features brought by the new energy vehicles, they have to face a problem of promoting them. The problem is how to install and use the charging piles after the community residents buying new energy vehicles. In the market, we have a strong property relationship to offer users the ultimate solution to the problem of home charging, as well as their concerns before buying the vehicles and their funds pressure to install the charger. In terms of the mall, we mainly construct the fast charging stations as supply for some users who do not have

Additionally, we consist of a group of hard-working and dedicated people that not only want to help better the environment but also to ensure the users’ safety and convenience when using any of our products. We have installed EV charging stations throughout malls, public parking lots, corporates as well as private housings to allow the use of our EV Chargers.

What are the challenges faced by electric vehicles industry and how is Hong Kong EV Power serving to tackle them?

Laurence and Cliff: As the pioneer of the EV charging service provider, we always strive to improve the services and make breakthrough to existing hurdles in the market.

We believe that home charging is the only solution to promote the wider use of electric vehicles in private sector in Hong Kong.

However, it is more difficult for an individual user to set up home charging facilities in the residential apartments due to many issues such as limited electricity power source, high initial cost of construction, rejection of property managers and incorporated owners for the application, etc.

In order to serve our vision that states, Make Everywhere EV Ready, Lead EV Ready Everywhere, we have launched a Private EV Charging Service named Residential Apartment Scheme (RAS) in late 2014. We take care of the initial capital investments and the subsequent operations of the charging infrastructure in the whole residential car parks with obtaining the approval of property managers and

Hong Kong EV Power has exhibited in “Eco Expo Asia 2016” held in Hong Kong in October 2016.

incorporated owners, while individual EV users can simply apply and pay a monthly fee for the EV charging services at their own parking spaces. Therefore, RAS highly eases the setup of home charging facilities and relieve most of the concerns of property managers and incorporated owners in order to provide the win-win situations for the sustainable growth of the use of EV in Hong Kong.

Where does Hong Kong EV Power see itself in the long run and what are its future goals?

Laurence and Cliff: As the anticipated widespread use of EV is reaching an inflexion point in the coming years, we are striving to position ourselves to capture an exploding market. We are aiming for all the drivers to rely on our EV charging services and making sure that there is no concern in our charging solutions. However, we are in the process to build 5000 more charging stations by the end of 2018.

About the Leaders Hong Kong EV Power has been ripened under the leadership of Laurence Chan, CEO and Founder, and Cliff Wu, General Manager.

Laurence Chan steers the overall business development and the operations of EV Power Group in mainland China. He has completed his masters in electronic engineering from the Chinese University of Hong Kong. During his studies, Laurence founded AMOS Technology Company, which was then providing designer and consultancy service for electronic and electric power automation systems. He subsequently founded EV Power Limited in 2010. Under his leadership, EV Power has become today’s fastest growing EV Charging Service Provider in Hong Kong, Macau and mainland China.

Cliff Wu has over 9 years of extensive experience in engineering project management of electrical systems, telecommunication and broadcasting network infrastructure in a territory-wide scale. Prior to joining EV Power, he held managerial roles in Hong Kong Television Network Limited and Hong Kong Broadband Network Limited. After joining EV Power, he has been responsible for formulating and developing integrated EV charging solutions as well as the one-stop EV charging network platform ‘E-Charge’, and currently oversees Hong Kong and Macau business of the Group. Under his leadership, his team has completed numerous remarkable EV charging projects in the past few years, working closely with the HKSAR Government, HK International Airport, power utilities, land developers and international EV manufacturers. He also graduated from the Chinese University of Hong Kong with a Bachelor of Engineering Honors degree and a Master of Philosophy degree in Electronic Engineering. Apart from this, he is a credential holder of Project Management Professional (PMP) ®.

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Company Name

Management

Brief Blink Charging is a leading owner, operator and provider of electric vehicle charging equipment and networked EV charging services.

Blink Charging blinkcharging.com

Michael Farkas Founder & Executive Chairman

CLEVER clever.dk

Casper Kirketerp-Møller CEO

Clever is the leading electric mobility operator in Scandinavia.

EO Charging eocharging.com

Charlie Jardine Founder & CEO

EO Charging is one of UK’s leading electric vehicle charging manufacturers, which design chargers for homes, fleets and destinations.

EVBox evbox.co.uk

Kristof Vereenooghe CEO

EVBox is the leading global manufacturer of electric vehicle charging stations and charging management software.

Hong Kong EV Power hkevpower.com

Laurence Chan & Cliff Wu CEO & Founder General Manager

Hong Kong EV Power provides comprehensive and professional EV charging solutions including the EV charging stations. It is a prominent expert in Electric Vehicle (EV) charging aimed to widen the adoption of EV in Hong Kong and China.

IES ies-synergy.com

Jean-Michel Cornille President & CEO

IES is a leading company recognized for advanced electric vehicle battery charging solutions.

KULR Technology kulrtechnology.com

Dr.Timothy Knowles CTO

KULR aims to make EVs more efficient by improving the performance and safety of their batteries and high-performance components.

Local Motors local-motors.com

Matt RivettExecutive Vice President

Local Motors by LMI is a ground mobility company, focused on shaping the future for the better.

OVO Energy ovoenergy.com

Stephen Fitzpatrick CEO & Founder

OVO is the UK’s largest independent energy technology company and supplier.

Wall Box Chargers wallbox.com

Enric Asunción CEO

Wallbox is focused in helping the EV industry to make electric and plug in hybrid cars an attractive alternative to more traditional ways of transportation..

Gary Cardenas President TOC Logistics

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|September 2018 | MM 2018

Mentor’s Opinion

T

he logistics and supply chain management industry is one that is constantly evolving and optimizing, and because of the competitive nature of the industry, innovation is key for success. Modern technologies have not only aided in the streamlining of supply chains and company processes, but have also set the industry on a technologically advanced path that many could not have even imagined fifteen or twenty years ago.

From robotics in warehouses and autonomous ships and trucks, to computerized shipping and tracking, technology has changed the industry for the better and has provided new levels of visibility.

With the aid of technology, supply chains of the future may be a bit more complex, but will certainly be more efficient and less expensive. A few of the technological advancements that have changed the game for the logistics and supply chain management industry are: Computerized Shipping and Tracking Modern technology has drastically impacted the shipping industry and has made for more efficient and accurate tracking. With a wide array of different supply chain management software programs on the market, logistics and supply chain professionals and their clients are able to keep an eye on their shipments during every step of the supply chain journey. With every second being crucial in the world of supply chain management, the ability to provide complete transparency to clients in terms of where their packages are and when they will arrive is something that is extremely valuable.

Computerized shipping and tracking has also largely reduced the amount of time spent shipping, receiving, tracking packages and compiling shipment data, as all necessary data can be stored in one easy-to-access place.

And in this case, saving time means saving money. Being able to digitally organize data and monitor shipping and tracking information also reduces the opportunities for human error. With digital records there is no longer a worry that sloppy handwriting or a misplaced piece of paper will throw a wrench in a shipment being delivered on time, or to the right place.

“Futuristic” Autonomous Vehicles A big technological push in the industry right now is the advancement of autonomous vehicles, electrification, use of solar power, and energy storage, all of which will be used across the board to both reduce cost and increase efficiency.

Right now, energy and transportation make up more than half of total supply chain costs and labor accounts for a little less than a third of costs. With further technological 102 MM |2018| S8eptember

advancements, the transportation and labor aspects of supply chains will eventually cost very, very little compared to what they do today.

The eventual implementation of autonomous electric vehicles, which can be programmed to use the most efficient routes and run throughout the night without a driver, will drive down the cost of labor and increase capacity on the roads. Autonomous vehicles will also address the growing concern of truck driver shortages throughout the industry.

Also on the very near horizon is the use of autonomous ships. Autonomous ships would address the issues of piracy, talent shortage in the ocean shipping industry and accidents caused by human error.

Big Data Logistics and supply chain management professionals live and die by data. A recent study by the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals shows that 98 percent of third-party logistics firms and 93 percent of shippers feel that data-driven decision making is key to supply chain activities. Technological advancements have made it extremely easy to gather and analyze key pieces of data.

Data surrounding shipping times, cargo weight, weather patterns, traffic routes, and more can lead to greater transparency, optimized routes, greater reliability and automated supply chains. Having a team that is able to accurately interpret big data is key to success, and will likely save a company both time and money. There is a reason UPS drivers don’t make left turns. Someone on the UPS team analyzed large amounts of data, which is now available thanks to technology, and determined that eliminating the majority of left turns would use 10 million less gallons of fuel, emit 20,000 tonnes less carbon dioxide into the air and help deliver 350,000 more packages every year.

Technology is something that is hard to predict and often difficult to wrap your head around, but the logistics and supply chain industry is benefiting from every new technological advancement in our field. The supply chains that we are working with today will be drastically different in five or ten years’ time, and almost unrecognizable in twenty or thirty years. Technology has made supply chain management more efficient, transparent and cost-effective. It is important to have members of your team that are willing to embrace new ways of doing things and that are able to stay up-to-date on new forms of technology. This industry is constantly changing, and in order to be successful you need to be willing to change along with it.

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equipment, and have greater brand management and price uniformity.

Blink Charging:

Experience with Products and Services of Other EV Charging Service Providers: We have had an experience of owning and operating other service provider’s EV charging equipment that includes General Electric, ChargePoint and SemaConnect. This experience has provided us with the working knowledge of the benefits and challenges of other equipment manufacturers and their applicable EV charging networks.

Crafting Innovative EV Charging Services

What are the cutting-edge products/services offered

by Blink Charging?

I

n the Electric Vehicle (EV) industry, Blink Charging is a leading enterprise which provides EV charging equipment and network services. It has thousands of charging stations across the United States. In an interview with Insights Success, Michael Farkas, the Founder and Executive Chairman of the company, shares his insights over experiences, products and motto of the organization along with the future goals in revolutionizing the EV industry.

Below are the highlights of the interview conducted between Farkas and Insights Success: Give a brief overview of the Blink Charging, its uniqueness and its vision.

Blink Charging is headquartered in Florida with offices in Arizona and California. It is designed and established to accelerate EV adoption with a vision to keep expanding not only in North America, but all around the world.

Here are some examples which differentiate us from our competitors: Ownership and Control of EV Charging Stations and Services: We own a large percentage of our stations, which is a significant differentiation between us and some of our primary competitors. This ownership model allows us to control the settings and pricing for our EV charging services, maintain the

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Blink Network is proprietary cloud-based software that operates, maintains, and tracks all of the EV charging stations connected to the network and the associated charging data. Blink Network provides property owners, property managers, and businesses with cloudbased services that enable the remote monitoring and management of EV charging stations, payment processing. It also provides vital EV charger information including station location, directions, availability, and applicable fees to the EV drivers.

Blink Charging offer individuals with a flexible range of business models for EV charging equipment and services. In its comprehensive model, the company owns, operates, installs, manages and maintains the EV charging set-up, and shares a piece of the revenue with the property owner. Alternatively, property owners may share in the system expenses including providing connectivity to the Blink Network. For businesses interested in purchasing, owning, and managing the charging stations, Blink Charging provides complete support from equipment to network connectivity and maintenance services.

Give a detailed description of the Founder/CEO/Management’s influence over the company and the industry.

In founding Blink Charging, Michael Farkas conceived the EV charging infrastructure business, and was the first “player in the game” – pioneering an industry. The model proved so successful, that Blink competitors have historically tried to replicate Farkas’ methods. To date, Farkas is an expert in the electric vehicle, EV charging, and green technology space. He is constantly looking forward to introduce disruptive methodology |September 2018 | MM 2018

‘‘

Providing convenient and affordable EV charging services.

Michael Farkas

Founder & Executive Chairman

into Blink Charging and looks towards hardware advancement to change the direction of EV charging tactics.

them have gone bankrupt. The money to be made is among fuel supplying companies, required at every moment when a vehicle is in operation. We are certain the future is electric.

Describe the experiences, achievements or lessons learnt that have shaped the journey of the company.

What are the challenges faced by electric vehicles industry and how is Blink Charging serving to tackle them?

Our plans have changed and evolved throughout our years in business, and we are proud of what we’ve accomplished. This includes our R&D successes and our successful rounds of funding. We’ve raised the capital when we needed it, and now with the increasing capital, we will see as a result of being the only pure-play charging company on the NASDAQ.

There are different issues that have arisen at different times. Lastly, the issue that arose was having the right product of EV. The first generation of EV were compliance cars that only went 30-40 miles on a single charge.

As an answer, Chevy Bolt and Tesla Model 3 are economically priced, fullbattery vehicles that an average consumer can afford. By 2020, all major manufacturers will have several EV models that will go an excess of 300 miles on a single charge.

We’ve found that a big part of maintaining our entrepreneurial spirit is being flexible. We’re always ready to make the best use of new opportunities that emerge in the clean transportation sector. We’ve made mistakes along the way, and we regret none of them, because we learned so much from each mistake. If you believe in electric vehicles, the smartest investment to make is not necessarily in car companies. Historically, 99 percent of S8eptember 102 MM |2018|

Another issue was charging infrastructure, or lack thereof. Blink

Charging came in and took steps to deploy hardware in the areas where it’s needed. Now, the main obstacle, that the industry faces is consumers’ awareness. We have to let the people know that they can buy an electric car that can satisfy their transportation needs.

Give us a few testimonials of your clients that accurately highlight Blink Charging position in the market.

“Blink is a leader in the network service and EV charger markets in the US, and its products and solutions serve as the standard technologies in the region.” – Hong Dong-ho, CEO of DSPOne. “As an urban institution that is deeply engaged with its communities, Temple is committed to creating a sustainable campus environment and culture. The Blink EV chargers are an important part of Temple’s sustainability initiatives to reduce transportationrelated greenhouse gas emissions.” – Kathleen Grady, Temple University’s Director of Sustainability.

21

E-Mobility: Pioneering Transportation with

Smart Grid

T

he electric automobile is associated with the integration of transportation, which is resulted according to the customer needs. Customer demands are initiated towards renewable energies in terms of a zero-emission and sustainable mobility. The "Smart Grid" could be a hypothetic methodology with electrically collected from vehicles that run on renewable resources.

However, E-mobility consequently specializing in customer demands and build an effective source of energy through mobility.

Rendering ahead with Smart Grid The move towards a low-carbon society would require progress in renewable energy production and in e-mobility.

The success of e-mobility is connected to smart grid development that helps intelligent charging infrastructure for big scale acceptance of electric vehicles. The dependency works both ways in which comparable to massive scale acceptance of e-mobility helps massive scale infrastructure investments to be profitable.

Functionalities of E-Mobility

Electro mobility or E-mobility suggests clean and environment-friendly transport through electric vehicles. It conjointly delivers climate-friendly technology with massive growth potential. In the automotive industry, electricity suppliers and government influencers are also pushing e-mobility within the field of standardization. For sequencing to the perfection, utilities and network operators are heavily investing under development of ‘intelligent’ electricity distribution systems.

Smart Grid Communication for economical E-Mobility In smart grid, smart energy network depends upon comprehensive communication with integrated charging stations. The communication with the smart grid is incessantly measured and controlled through an IP-based connection. It additionally permits load compensation with the assistance of interconnecting charging stations.

Additionally, vehicle-to-grid communication makes it potential to integrate special charge models and supply new services. Moreover, in future the vehicles connected to the smart grid unit expected to perform batteries for storing extra energy as needed.

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There are two different kinds of plug-in electric vehicles, such as plug-in hybrid vehicle and pure electric vehicle.

Were plug-in hybrid vehicles are equipped with a combustion engine and pure electric vehicle encompass pure electric connectivity. The proper electricity-production drastically reduces CO2 emissions compared to traditional combustion engine cars. From the perspective of the electrical grid, people’s habits and daily schedules can probably cause peak demand at certain times of day, which may cause electricity network congestion or voltages below normal.

Revolutionary Trends of Electrical Grid In an electrical grid, the energy system becomes progressively relied on renewable energy sources. The wants to the electrical grid are ever-changing with latest trends. The alternative energy is generally non-controllable, suburbanized and unsteady. E-mobility brings purposeful technology which reinforces the transportation medium and efficient method.

|September 2018 | MM 2018

E-Mobility

Flexible property of E-Mobility E-mobility may be a versatile electrical transportation medium immensely capturing client demands. The flexibility of e-mobility helps to reduce costs of network investments and electricity bills with grid operators. The network has the flexibility to deal with worst case situation.

It additionally reduces energy and absorbs excessive energy generation, and additionally things and voltage issues.

Nissan Integrates E-Mobility with Smart Grid The well-known automobile brand, Nissan is introducing its own electronic vehicle or e-mobility vehicle with smart grid technology. Nissan additionally proposes to introduce technology and business ties between electric driving and smart grid. Moreover, Nissan is on the point of introducing energy storage for a vehicle for domestic usage supported second-life batteries. Nissan’s is aiming to provide concerning one hundred electric vehicle charging stations for each non-public and business purpose. The automotive 102 MM |2018| S8eptember

users are ready to offer the battery capacity to vehicles and to create energy for grid. Hence, Nissan drives its e-mobility vehicles effectively with unified consumer experience.

Confronting Future with E-Mobility The future of electric vehicles is remodeling within the field of energy and quality happening in the fields of energy and quality. E-mobility is influenced by market factors and forthcoming trends that are nearly unbeatable. The conjunction of e-mobility and smart grid is a chance for many automobile industries. Through automobile, businesses have many possibilities to head in the market.

Henceforth, e-mobility delivers significant solutions to automobile industry comprises with a smart grid. It’s a revolutionary step towards automobile segmentation comprises with electric transport mobility solutions.

25

Clever: Paving the Way for Sustainable Mobility

D

igitization, automation and new business models have revolutionized many industries, and the automotive industry is not an exception.

The global automotive industry has started experiencing the effects of global disruption after the vehicles are been in the process of getting electrified. In this era of disruption, Clever, one of the leading electric mobility operators is paving the way for tomorrow’s sustainable mobility. In an interview with Insights Success, the CEO Casper Kirketerp-Møller unveiled the journey of Clever and how it provides sustainable value to stay ahead of competition.

What are the cutting-edge products/services offered

by Clever?

Casper: We have invented the first ever flat rate charging subscription called Unlimited, a Netflix for EV charging.

Unlimited gives our customers limitless charging and freedom wherever it’s needed. There is no fuss as the monthly fee gives consumer limitless charging at home with a home upgrade consisting of a home charging box including installation, limitless charging on our public charging network, and limitless charging on our new ultra-fast charging stations along the European freeways.

Our invention of Unlimited is massively successful and has subsequently been copied 1:1 by the competition. We continually develop and enhance the user experience in our products, carving away friction to make it an effortless and digital experience to drive and charge our customer’s EV. This uncompromising focus is what has made Clever a market frontrunner.

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We have designed the future of charging stations which will give gas stations a long-needed run for its money.

With the design of our new ultra-fast charging (UFC) stations, we provide our customers with a meaningful break that will fast-charge the mental batteries along with the EV’s.

Describe the experiences, achievements or lessons learnt that have shaped the journey of the company.

Casper: Through our lifespan, it has been all about identifying and relieving pain points in consumers’ everyday life.

Initially, in 2009, there were a very limited amount of EVs in Denmark, and as a consequence, Clever, which was named ChooseEV at the time, developed an extensive user-study along with the Danish transport authority which let 2500 Danes drive and experience EVs in order to gather data, knowledge and use cases to make informed approaches to implement EVs for the Danes. Based on the study, it became evident that charging infrastructure was crucial in order to support the EV integration and battle ‘range anxiety’. This led us to raise funding to invest in a strategic implementation of the public charging network.

With the public charging network being implemented, next step was to develop a solution for home owners in order to bring charging to the doorstep of the consumers by making sure that they would wake up to a fully charged EV outside their door. After bringing charging to the homes of consumers, it became evident that transparency and ease of use was crucial in order to continue the implementation of EVs. This led to the product development of Clever Unlimited, marking a new era of EV charging in Denmark and internationally as well.

Currently, we are investing extensively in user-centred digital and physical products and services, such as app, website, IT infrastructure, upgrades to Unlimited, partnerships with car brands and the UFC project.

What are the challenges faced by electric vehicles industry and how is Clever serving to tackle them? |September 2018 | MM 2018

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Everything we do, we do to inspire people to drive EVs – it’s the brightest idea we know, and we want to share it with the world.

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Casper: Deep-rooted fossil-based mind-sets and myths surrounding the EV performance and experience are barriers keeping the mass of consumers from even trying an EV. We are nuancing and challenging those mind-sets and myths by showing the value of emobility through our partnerships, and our user-centric products and services as driving an EV is not only more fun and a meaningful experience – it’s also in most aspects easier.

Compared to the situation in Norway, Sweden and Netherlands, Danish consumers, car dealers, leasing companies and companies in general are lacking economic motivation to invest in EVs caused by swaying and unstable Danish taxation politics on the EV area. We are working together with the industry to put pressure on Danish politicians to ensure security and confidence in the market.

What, according to you, is the future of electric vehicles and what role does Clever play in that?

Casper: The EV is a superior product that will dominate the future of roadS8eptember 102 MM |2018|

Casper Kirketerp-Møller CEO

based transport as a whole. In ten years, 3 out of 4 new cars sold will be EVs. And as long as there are EVs around, we will be there to make sure that driving and charging EV is meaningful, easy and frictionless. No matter if the car is autonomous, if our costumers live in the city or on the country, or they charge the car while driving. We will continue to put users first and make use of the technologies and expertise available to create the best possible user experience.

About the Leader Casper is e-mobility enthusiast to the bone but rely deeply on the 50 dedicated co-workers of Clever as the organization has a flat hierarchy that empowers every co-worker to make autonomous and smart

decisions in their everyday work.

Clever as a company has attracted international attention and recognition for the unique way of designing the future of e-mobility charging.

About the Company Clever is the leading electric mobility operator (EMO) in Scandinavia. It provides charging solutions that make it convenient, fast and safe for its customers to charge their EV at home, at workplaces and on the go. It has established a nationwide network of public charging stations in Denmark, Sweden and Northern Germany and delivers charging solutions for all models of electric cars. It is owned by two of Denmark’s most innovative energy companies, SEAS-NVE and NRGi, who teamed up to create the conditions for the electrification of transportation.

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EO Charging: Leading the charge for electric vehicles

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O Charging is one of the UK’s leading electric vehicle (EV) charger manufacturers. Founded in 2015, the company designs chargers for homes, fleets and destinations – offering a holistic solution to all types of EV drivers. In just three years, EO has grown from a small operation in an old barn to a global EV charging brand, now selling in 25 countries around the world.

In an interview with Insights Success, Charlie Jardine, Founder and CEO of the company, shares his experience, company’s products and motto of the organization along with the future goals in revolutionizing the EV industry.

Below are the highlights of the interview conducted between Charlie and Insights Success: Give a brief overview of the company, its uniqueness and its vision.

Charlie: EO Charging is one of the UK’s leading electric vehicle charging manufacturers. We design chargers for homes, fleets and destinations. We see EV chargers as the first piece of the puzzle in helping consumers gain energy independence – both in terms of generation and storage.

What are the cutting-edge products/services offered

by EO Charging?

Charlie: EO has a number of industry leading products including the eoMini, the eoBasic and the eoGenius and the eoHub. The eoMini is currently the smallest fast charger on the market and is fully customizable. It’s the perfect option

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for electric vehicle drivers looking for a discreet and easy-to-use charger.

Our eoBasic is a simple plug and play EV charger available in 7-22kw options – perfect for the everyday EV driver. Where we’re leading the industry is our eoGenius charger – the most cost-effective, scalable smart charging solution that allows fleet managers to grow their charging infrastructure with ease. So how does it work? Well, by connecting our eoGenius chargers to the eoHub, a smart unit that connects up to 32 chargers, fleet managers and EV drivers get access to the eoCloud, eoApp and all of our smart functionality.

By not having the smart hardware in each charger, fleet managers or business owners don’t face large upfront costs and are able to easily scale their charging infrastructure as more and more electric vehicles are purchased and enter their fleet.

Describe the experiences, achievements or lessons learnt that have shaped the journey of the company.

Charlie: As with any startup, EO’s growth to date hasn’t come without complications. The first EO charger was designed and manufactured on Charlie’s Grandfather’s farm – in fact, in an old pig shed! Fast forward three years and the company now has a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Stowmarket, Suffolk employing over 15 people. One of the biggest hurdles for EO has been keeping up with demand – the company to date has manufactured around 4000 chargers and currently sells in more than 25 countries around the world!

What are the challenges faced by electric vehicles industry and how is EO Charging serving to tackle them? |September 2018 | MM 2018

Charlie: One of the biggest problems faced by the electric vehicle industry is charging infrastructure. Currently in the UK there aren’t enough chargers to support the increasing number of EVs on the road.

EO is working directly with both consumers and businesses to ensure they’re installing the most appropriate, future-proof charging solution.

What, according to you, is the future of Electric Vehicles and what role does EO Charging play in that?

Charlie: We’re currently witnessing the second automotive revolution first the combustion engine took over from the horse & cart, now electric takes over from petrol & diesel.

EDF energy, Oxfordshire County Council and Oxford University) to develop a Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) charger. Once the technology is fully developed, EVs will be able to assist the grid at times of sudden spikes in demand or supply.

Whilst Charlie is the youngest leader within the industry, his focus to build a brand and product that EV drivers love has propelled him to the forefront of the global EV revolution.

He is a driving force behind the company’s sales, partnerships and is constantly striving to ensure EO stays at the forefront of innovation in the sector.

About the Leader: EO was founded by 26-yearold Charlie Jardine. Having worked at a rival UK manufacturer for a number of

‘‘

EO is focused on developing charging technology that is simple and reliable.

EO is currently working alongside Innovate UK and a consortium of UK businesses and organizations (including September 2018|

‘‘

We will soon be moving out of the ‘early adopter’ stage of vehicle electrification and soon into the ‘early majority’ where everyday consumers will embrace EVs with open arms. EO plays a vital role in enabling this revolution (or rEVolution, if you will) and the company is currently working on a number of innovation projects to prove the use case for technologies like Vehicle-to-Grid charging.

years, Charlie made the decision to setup the business with the mission of building simple yet reliable EV chargers.

—Charlie Jardine Founder & CEO

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Electrovaya Lithium-ion batteries: Powering Electro-Mobility ince 1996

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lectrovaya was established in 1996 as a research and development company focused on Lithium ion technologies and manufacturing processes. In 2000, it was listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: EFL) and has continuously delivered cutting edge technology projects for aerospace (NASA), automotive and personal electronics. Overtime, it has developed key technologies for fundamental cell and battery technology with more than 150 patents in these fields.

Recently, Electrovaya has concentrated on battery solutions for heavy-duty applications requiring superior life cycle and performance. It has successfully developed unique ultralong life cycle battery systems, which are particularly designed for Materials Handling Electric Vehicles (MHEV).

Currently, it supplies major OEMs with specialized battery module and systems. On the average, MHEVs and passenger EVs run daily for around 10 hours and 2 hours, respectively. Electrovaya’s ultra-long life cycle technology is extremely suitable for these kinds of application.

Compared to vehicles powered with fuel, Electrovaya powered vehicles can function well within 24 hours every day under extreme temperature conditions with annual mileage of 20,000km.

Customers and Emerging Markets Six Fortune 500 companies in the logistics, e-commerce and manufacturing sectors have started using Electrovaya batteries for their forklift trucks, Material Handling Electric Vehicles (MHEV) and Automated guided vehicles (AGV).

This emerging market generated around $3.3 million of revenue from battery-operated deliveries mainly from Walmart from the January to March 2018. Also, additional purchase orders of $2.3 million were placed last June 2018.

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The current target markets are 1.5 million operational MHEVs and approximately 160,000 new MHEVs placed in North America last 2017 (Industrial Truck Association, 2017, Washington DC, USA).

Also, on 25th of July 2018, Electrovaya has successfully delivered batteries to Walmart Canada’s distribution center.

This is a major milestone for Electrovaya and the Materials Handling Industry, for it is one of the largest lithium-ion installations in North America. Currently, Electrovaya’s Lithium-ion batteries provide power to all MHEVs at this distribution center.

Industry Outlook Forklift truck sales in North America’s market continued their unprecedented increase. The year 2017 marked the third consecutive year of growth with more than 250,000 units sold, representing a 9.5% and 12.2% increase compared to 2016 and 2015, respectively.

In addition, thousands to millions of electric powered trucks are sold annually in the U.S. and worldwide. The continuous increase in the number of battery-operated trucks from the previous years’ shows the potential use and lead of Electrovaya’s lithium-ion batteries in the trucking industry.

To further introduce the technology and excellence of its products and services to the world, Electrovaya joined the Modex Expo 2018, which happened at Atlanta, GA. In this occasion, the company showcased the lithium ion batteries that are widely used in the materials handling sector.

Given the tremendous success of Electrovaya in the previous years, what really sets it apart from the other battery providers?

|September 2018 | MM 2018

Expert’s Forsights

Raj Das Gupta Vice President of Business Development

Electrovaya

September 2018|

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batteries with maintenance cost of only 45 USD for cable replacements and remote monitoring.

Safety is our priority Electrovaya batteries are built using the safest technology, which has been continuously improved overtime. Once installed, this battery can be recharged similar a cellular phone. Hence, it removes the danger involved in removing and handling of batteries, which are necessary in lead acid battery charging. Ÿ

About the Author Raj Das Gupta has worked with Electrovaya previously as Director of Research and later as Vice President of Energy Storage. Raj is responsible for managing and increasing Electrovaya’s sales for both its stationary and automotive energy storage systems, as well as developing Electrovaya's strategy for technology licensing and business partnerships. Raj attended Imperial College, London; Massachusetts Institute of Technology; and the University of Cambridge, where he received his Doctorate in Materials Science.

Last year, no accidents were recorded on the usage on forklift trucks with Electrovaya batteries.

Capital expenditure Lithium battery is always criticized about its high initial cost, wherein Electrovaya battery system is twice the cost of the lead acid batteries. However, Electrovaya batteries last twice longer than lead acid batteries due its 9000 life cycle. This is the result of the collective efforts of the company’s engineers who filed more than 150 patents under the Lithium cell technology. Therefore, after 6 years, the total investments of both types of batteries are the same.

Also, if both batteries will be on a lease, the monthly lease expenses will also be similar due to longer lease period on Electrovaya batteries. Ÿ

Future Perspective

To elaborate on what makes it one of the leading brands for powering electro-mobility, enumerated below are the benefits from utilizing Electrovaya’s technology.

• Reduced costs and increased productivity of charging Based on observation, there was an increase in the productivity of the forklift truck drivers due to opportunistic and fast charging. Lead acid battery can function for 8 hours but also needs to be charged for 8 hours. Meanwhile, Electrovaya battery can be charged opportunistically during break times, which increases its run time. The use of advance connector system removed arching or any fire hazards.

Reduced maintenance costs Electrovaya batteries do not require additional distilled water, switching, cleaning and maintenance. These advantages, made the maintenance costs of Electrovaya batteries 59% cheaper than Lead acid batteries. Ÿ

Electrovaya’s vision is to be the leader in critical and highly intensive applications. Its extensive line of products and worldwide partnerships helps it to lead the industry. Aside from the six Fortune 500 companies, MNCs have also purchased from Electrovaya and many are still exploring the benefits of using this technology in keeping their companies transform and grow.

Reliability of Electrovaya A testimony from the warehouse manager of a leading ecommerce company stated that Electrovaya was very efficient in switching the batteries, particularly in installing the Lithium-ion batteries. Since then, the company has reported reduced energy and maintenance costs, while there was an increase in the labor productivity.

This shows that Electrovaya continues to be one of the leading companies in this industry. Electrovaya has been continuously providing unwavering high quality technologies and services to the people since 1996.

For instance, Watering System Maintenance and Acid Containment Spill Kit cost 135 USD annually for each truck with lead acid batteries compared to Electrovaya

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|September 2018 | MM 2018

EVBox

An Energized Approach Shaping the EVs’ Market

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he demand of electric vehicles has significantly increased over the last decade. Vehicle owners around the globe are switching from gas stations to an electrical outlet to fuel their vehicles. When the market for electric vehicles (EVs) was still in its initial stages Amsterdam based company, EVBox made its breakthrough in the year 2010. A techie at heart, EVBox’s co-founders identified the importance of having a connected charging infrastructure at an early stage. With this mindset, the company throve and expanded to several countries in Europe and North America, while building diverse electric vehicle charging solutions for home, business, commercial and public charging.

An Elite Electric Vehicle Institution EVBox is the leading global manufacturer of electric vehicle charging stations and charging management software. With an installed base of over 50,000 charging points across more than 980 cities worldwide, EVBox drives sustainable mobility, by bringing leading electric vehicle charging solutions to the world.

In 2014, Gilde Equity Management Benelux became EVBox’s new major shareholder to help EVBox expand internationally. EVBox’s strong market position in the Dutch industry, promising customer base and range of expertise, as well as the exponential growth of electric vehicle sales around the world, enticed Gilde to invest heavily in its expansion plans.

strong leading brand perfecting its original recipe of a second generation of hardware and software that are energy efficient, future proof, and easy to use.

A Versatile Leadership The insightful leadership of EVBox’s CEO, Kristof Vereenooghe, is the motoring factor behind its remarkable success. Kristof is a seasoned entrepreneur with SaaS cloud software expertise with a track record in driving international growth. His innovative, entrepreneurial and versatile behavior has successfully resulted in building many teams and companies. Prior to joining EVBox, Kristof has extensively contributed at various startups that have now become the key players within their industries, such as Bynder, LUMA Marketing Technologies, Eclipse International and Xeikon.

Charging Solutions with Uncompromising Quality and Reliability EVBox believes that its charging solutions maximize the return on investment while minimizing costs. From the installation and online integration of every station, to the tracking and billing of all charging sessions it helps everyone in operating and managing their charging stations with ease and efficiency.

Powered by durable components and intelligent software, EVBox’s charging stations are compatible with every

In 2017, EVBox was acquired by ENGIE Digital, who identified EVBox as a disruptive, leading clean tech company making a difference in the fast growing industry of electric mobility. Today, EVBox moves forward as a

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|September 2018 | MM 2018

As a fast-growing scale-up within the beating heart of the clean tech industry, our job is to accelerate the transition towards a zero emissions future.

—Kristof Vereenooghe CEO

electric vehicle, now and in the future.

Its broad range of solutions includes home charging stations, business charging stations, public charging stations, charging management, charge cards, and accessories.

Determined to Provide Flexible and Scalable Solutions EVBox came up with its latest innovations which involves home charging station ‘Elvi’ and charging management platform ‘Everon’.

Elvi is the first charging station from the new generation EVBox designed for every electric car with its upgradable and future-proof features. It has charging capacity that ranges from 3.7 kW to 22 kW. Elvi is durable, smart, and simple design that can track and invoice charging sessions. Its compatibility with every electric car makes it easy to use, install, and upgrade. Whereas, Everon is a widely customizable platform that helps every charging point operator to easily manage and control all charging sessions, costs, and power consumption. From lease drivers and 102 MM |2018| S8eptember

charging stations, to parking facilities and commercial fleets, Everon is forever flexible and scalable.

In addition, EVBox tries to shape the future of mobility by hosting its own annual conference and network event rEVolution. rEVolution is the annual networking and idea- sharing conference for the e-mobility industry.

Each year, the sector’s finest gather in Amsterdam for a full day of inspiring presentations and conversations aimed at deliberating the ways to accelerate the adoption of sustainable mobility. In 2018, the event brought together 514 experts from 32 countries to debate on above deliberation. It is estimated that the year 2019 will see up to 1000 emobility experts & professionals coming together to discuss the future of mobility.

Unfolding the Uncertain Knowledge of Electric Vehicles According to EVBox expertise, knowledge among consumers (drivers) and businesses that are uncertain about how to prepare for electric mobility is a substantial challenge in the EV

industry. For instance, many fleet managers, retail outlets or hotels are unsure about changing their parking offerings to be set for electric vehicles.

Hence, EVBox envisions being a knowledge partner and inspiration for all the stakeholders, by visiting many different regional & global events and publicly sharing insights on the future of the industry. In addition to this, the company also writes qualitative articles and whitepapers to educate people about the industry and its current trends.

A Vision of Emission-Free Future EVBox envisions a future where everyday transport is electric, emission-free, and sustained by a green charging infrastructure. Climate change is forcing the company to take action in favor of the occurrence of the full-hearted adoption of electric vehicles or rEVolution as EVBox likes to call it. Its role will be to provide the smart and scalable charging solutions around the world and advising governments, cities, OEMs and companies through this rEVolution.

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Smarter Energy Grids

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|September 2018

Digi Connection

H

uman beings have always looked up to nature and made efforts to learn from its basic principles.

Sonars were inspired by dolphins, light bulbs by fireflies, suction cups by octopus and robots itself to replicate human beings. One such instance that has been enthused by microorganisms is distributed ledger technology (DLT), widely known as blockchain.

“The blockchain is an incorruptible digital ledger of economic transactions that can be programmed to record not just financial transactions but virtually everything of value.”

-Don & Alex Tapscott.

It records transactions between two clients without any third party authentication which is an efficient process when it comes to stable data. Blockchain provides data management without the threat of unauthorized access or manipulations. It is proving to be a solution for frequent problems in various fields. Blockchain technology has the capability to disrupt approximately every industry ranging from finance, to education to power.

Digi Connection Smart Meters Smart meters are used to record electrical usage. These meters enable us to monitor our electrical consumption more precisely which will help consumers make better energy choices. Through blockchain, clients can directly get the amount spent which eradicates middleman thus saving money. This creates a more resilient network for gadgets to run on. Smart meters can also provide accurate data to the provider without needing a direct link to the meter of particular users.

With the help of blockchain, producers of smart grids do not have to invest a humongous amount. Here the producers get paid instantly, which leads to less capital expenditure.

Besides this, blockchain can play a serious role in adjusting power flows through the amalgamation and optimization of local grids measured by the public or consortium modes. It can aid in the maintenance of permanent records by servicers, giving a flawless view of a particular object or part of infrastructure at any given time. This information can be retrieved easily as the structure is built on a shared platform, while retaining the authenticity of the record.

Blockchain Technology in Smarter Grids One of the areas in the energy industry where blockchain technology can disrupt the market is smart grids. Lately, blockchain has been well-thought-out as one of the developing technologies that can be used for developing decentralized grid topologies and revising the distributed management of energy businesses. Blockchain database is shared by all the nodes in the system. A node is an active device which can be connected to internet and has an IP address. Examples of devices include computers, tablets, phones and even printers. The job of a node is to upkeep the network by maintaining a copy of the blockchain and process transactions.

Benefits of Blockchain in Smarter Grids Blockchain can aid numerous utility industry requirements.

It can act as a foundation stone with the possibility of disrupting the prevailing ecosystem. With the promotion for e-vehicles and individuals shifting to electric cars, supply and demand of energy needs to keep pace. Here blockchain comes in the scenario with its peer-to-peer interconnectivity and sharing. This balances the demand from several foundations and makes the grid smarter by directing sharing.

As there are small and compact smart grids, consumers with the help of blockchain can simply trade energy with one another thus saving time and earning a few dollars. In the power industry, blockchain technology can ensure a 5D Impact: decentralization, digitization, democratization, distribution and deregulation.

102 MM |2018| S8eptember

While the possible benefits of the Smart Grid are usually discussed in terms of renewable energy goals, economics and national security, it has the potential to help save money by managing your electricity usage and choosing the best times to purchase electricity. Consumers can save even more by generating their power with the help of blockchain.

Lately, due to the speedy growth in the deployment of DEPs the smart grid organization problems can no longer be proficiently addressed using centralized approaches, thus, the necessity for visionary decentralized methodologies and architectures is widely recognized.

It is assessed that the blockchain technology will add another $3.1 trillion by 2030. Lately, due to the speedy growth in the deployment of DEPs the smart grid organization problems can no longer be proficiently addressed using centralized approaches, thus, the necessity for visionary decentralized methodologies and architectures is widely recognized.

Lastly, blockchain technology may eventually fast-track the evolution to what the power industry calls a “distributed world.” It is the sum of both small and large powergeneration structures for communities, businesses and home. To prosper in capitalizing the potential of distributed generation and supervising less foreseeable and more capricious renewable power sources, the trade's infrastructure must first become more agile and less centralized.

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IES Synergy: Addressing the Growing Demand for Charging Solutions

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ith the evolving disruption in Automotive Industry, Electric Vehicles (EV) market is powering up on a top gear. However, the charging infrastructure is the backbone of the EV industry.

One of the leading companies addressing the growing demand for EV charging solutions is IES Synergy.

In an interview with Insights Success, the President and CEO Jean-Michel Cornille, shares his experiences on leading IES Synergy and uncovers his insights on taking the company to the next level.

end of EV manufacturing lines. Built from years of experience of IES mastering EV protocols, those products have been used by many prestigious car makers all over the world, to make sure their new models will provide a perfect compliance with protocols. Ÿ

DC universal Wallbox for all EV cars: Offering unique compact design and delivering true 22/24kW to any EV on the market, the IES multi-standard wallbox provides the most universal and economic solution for charging at destination. With its compact design, the KEYWATT wallbox can be installed in less than two hours, either on a wall or on a pedestal. Its rated 22kW (AC) or 24kW (DC) output power will charge most EV cars typically in about one hour, independently of their protocols (Combo, CHAdeMO and/or AC Type 2), at a fraction of the cost of more expensive 50kW solutions. Based on a unique design without air filter, its maintenance needs are greatly reduced. Its customizable front panel & user menu makes it an ideal solution for providing fast charging points at shopping centers, restaurants, parking areas or for any work places or enterprise fleet.

Ÿ

Charging Station for eBuses: It is a 50kW station specifically designed for charging eBuses in depot. With an optimized surface footprint and a unique hermetic design, the new IES station for eBus is perfect for use in depot environment, whose implantation is facilitated, maintenance needs greatly reduced and service continuity optimized. Three stations can be also coupled, as its paralleling kit enables the possibility to charge up to 150kW.

Give a brief overview of the company, its uniqueness and its vision.

Jean-Michel: IES, which stands for Intelligent Electronic Systems, is a leading company recognized for advanced electric vehicle battery charging solutions. Founded more than 26 years ago, IES has created a high expertise for designing and manufacturing high frequency battery chargers at the edge of the technology. First engaged on the industrial vehicle market, where the company has developed a complete range of on-board chargers recognized by top leading industrial actors in the world, it has also actively participated to the emergence of the electric passenger vehicle market. Participating with key German car manufacturers on the development of the CCS Combo protocol, IES has been one of the pioneers developing leading-edge fast charging solutions for electric cars. Creator of the KEYWATTTM technology, IES has expanded its presence to many regions in the world, with more than 4,500 chargers deployed in the world.

What are the cutting-edge products/services offered by IES Synergy?

Jean-Michel: We offer 3 key cutting-edge products for external fast chargers: Ÿ

Mobile charging solutions: Easy to move and easy to connect, the Trolley and the Cube, with their interchangeable cables, are solid solutions for car manufacturers, for testing new EV cars in development.

Dependable, they are also used to charge batteries at the

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|September 2018 | MM 2018

Describe the experiences, achievements or lessons learnt that has shaped the journey of the company.

‘

We have achieved wide recognition as a technology leader and a proven supplier of innovative charging solutions.

‘

Jean-Michel: Always at the edge of the technology, IES has capitalized on the many steps the automotive market has taken so far. Combining high expertise in HF Power electronics and a true innovation spirit, IES was at the core of the moments that shaped the industry. Being at the earlier steps of the electrification trend seen 25 years on industrial vehicles, being at the earliest stage of the development of the CCS protocol, or chosen by FIA for charging their racecars, all those experiences resulted in the birth of the KEYWATTTM technology, used and recognized by many leading actors on the market.. Trademark of IES, KEYWATTTM has been selected as the core solution of many charging infrastructure actors in Europe, North America, and more recently in China through our joint venture created with WANMA in 2015 thanks to the support of our main shareholder, EURAZEO. In January 2018, within a capital increase, The NEXANS Group joined IES as a new shareholder, bringing additional means to accelerate its development.

What are the challenges faced by electric vehicles industry and how is IES Synergy serving to tackle them?

Jean-Michel: The adoption of electric vehicles by our citizens is tightly linked to the availability of a well dimensioned charging infrastructure network. New forms of transit will also appear, such as car sharing or zero emission public mass transport, in order to fight against pollution issues and congested city center access. IES has developed unique compact and cost-economic solutions based on its KEYWATT technology, to greatly facilitate the deployment of fast charging infrastructure in our cities, either for individual or mass transport. At IES, we believe fast and economic chargers to be spread in public and commercial environment will be the most essential solution.

Another barrier seen by the users is linked to the autonomy and the cost of the vehicles. But relentless progress in battery technology push the density up and the cost down, making vehicles more affordable with a larger autonomy. As of today, new generation of EV are announced with 500-600 km autonomy.

About the Leader Graduated from Ecole Polytechnique & Ecole Nationale des Ponts et Chaussées, Jean-Michel Cornille joined IES in March 2015. He spent most of his career in Telecom or Electronic Industry, in Executive Management positions within large international companies, such as President of ALCATEL Mobile Solutions Division, Executive VicePresident of AREVA T&D Automation and Senior VicePresident of ALSTOM Grid Power Electronics & Automation .Jean-Michel brings his high level executive management experience in leading IES to take it on a next level.

102 MM |2018| S8eptember

Jean-Michel Cornille President & CEO

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KULR Technology: Delivering Top-notch Thermal Management Solutions

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ust like the vehicles themselves, the electric vehicle (EV) market will only go as far as batteries take it.

That means that electric vehicle technology and battery technology are not just linked, they are one in the same – few advances in EVs will be possible without advances in batteries. Adding range, power, advanced cabin features, faster charging and enhanced safety all require better batteries.

That’s why the breakthrough work that KULR Technology Group, Inc. (OTCQB: KUTG) is doing is so vital to EVs and the market. In ongoing testing, KULR’s newly engineered carbon fiber cooling systems and materials co-designed with NASA for space flight are proving to make batteries not just more efficient but safer.

KULR’s core technology is a flexible and exceptionally lightweight fabric material that looks and feels like velvet but is made from pure carbon fiber – the most efficient conductor of heat energy on earth. For engineers and system designers the fiber’s flexibility, low contact pressure requirements, weight, and optimum cooling efficiency are game changers that allow them to manage or mitigate heat in ways that simply were not possible just a year ago.

For EVs, better heat management solutions are crucial because old legacy heat solutions such as fans, water pumps, reservoirs, and metal heat plates are heavy and bulky. When you’re burning gas perhaps hauling around 150 pounds of cooling pumps and fans doesn’t matter.

But for EVs where less weight translates into more

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power and farther range, it really matters. And it’s not just for motors and drive components – KULR’s fiber solutions can manage the heat of the EV batteries themselves.

That’s a big deal because of the power demands that can consume an EV battery. Imagine, for example, starting your EV, in 110-degree desert heat, running the air conditioning, running satellite GPS and navigation systems and the drive train – all from a battery that, if it gets too hot, will just shut down, or worse. In conditions like that, keeping that battery cool isn’t just important, it’s essential.

As more demanding systems such as self-driving or collision avoidance technologies are added to cars, heat management will become even more critical. Not only will these new systems demand more power from batteries but their sensitive electronics and lasers, the lynchpin of self-driving technology LIDAR, will degrade as they overheat.

“Innovation isn’t always about doing the impossible,” said Dr.Timothy Knowles, CTO of KULR Technology and a veteran of space thermal management technology.

“Many times, the most significant innovations and advances come from solving the most obvious and most common problems. For many technologies, and especially for EVs, heat and power efficiency are constant and serious problems and our technology provides the most serious answer.”

But it turns out using carbon fiber to efficiently cool batteries and high-technology EV components can have even more important benefits when done correctly. In |September 2018 | MM 2018

‘‘

We use innovative space technology to transform the world of electronics, batteries and electric vehicles and make electronics cooler, lighter and safer.

Dr.Timothy Knowles

testing with NASA for crewed space flight, KULR’s carbon fiber can be configured to stop dangerous battery fires and explosions.

The safety assembly, known as the KULR Thermal Runaway Shield (TRS), has been proven to contain the potentially catastrophic impacts of thermal runaway where the failure of a single lithium-ion battery cell can trigger a neighboring one and so on in a chain reaction explosion.

It’s not necessary to be an EV scientist to know that limiting or preventing battery fires is a major concern for EV makers – and drivers. Eventually, fire safety systems like KULR’s TRS may be standard in all EVs – not just cars but boats, trains, construction equipment, space and aerospace vehicles and drones. Really, anything with a battery that moves.

If anything is more sensitive than cars in balancing the needs of space and weight with battery power, it’s

102 MM |2018| S8eptember

CTO

drones. Drones have to be lighter, deploy more power, go faster, and being airborne, have even less risk for failure.

That’s why, to test and prove their space-designed carbon cooling fiber, KULR has partnered with drone designers, engineers and racers at DR1 – the fastest, most technologically demanding drone racing circuit. Starting this year, KULR will be the DR1 Technology Partner.

And what KULR proves in the air will find its way to the road.

“It’s a kind of natural evolution,” CTO, Dr.Timothy Knowles, said. “Our carbon fiber was designed for space and has been used in more than 100 applications for places like Mars and the international space station.

Now, we’re making drones lighter, faster and safer and we’re already testing our products for more earth-bound vehicles such as cars and trucks – working our way down so to speak.”

If KULR can crack the EV heat problem -- adding to battery efficiency all while making those batteries safer, it would be difficult to over-state the potential contribution to EVs. Consumers are unlikely to turn in the keys to their gas-powered cars and pick up ones for EVs until those alternatives go as far, as fast, as reliably as easily. Doing that will require batteries that are safer and more efficient and KULR may just hold the keys to that.

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Local Motors: Matt Rivett Executive Vice President

Shaping the Future for the Better

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ounded in 2007 with a belief in open collaboration and co-creation, Local Motors

by LMI is a ground mobility company that is focused on shaping the future for the better. Since its foundation, Local Motors began low volume vehicle manufacturing of open-source designs using multiple microfactories. Currently, Local Motors by LMI harnesses the technology of direct digital manufacturing (3D-Printing) to create innovative, scalable solutions.

Local Motors utilizes the power of the Launch Forth by LMI co-creation community of nearly 200,000 online members from around the world as well as utilizes Direct Digital Manufacturing and 3D-Printing within micro-factories to create products rapidly and efficiently while being able to provide customers the ability to customize and integrate new technologies with ease.

Visionary Leaders LM Industries Group, Inc., the parent company of Local Motors, is headed by CEO, Jay Rogers. He is widely recognized as a visionary in the automotive, manufacturing and technology space. Jay Rogers is a highly sought-after speaker, engaging and provoking forward thinking around the world in a variety of venues. Jay believes in candor, action, responsibility and excellence throughout the organization. Rogers founded Local Motors after serving for seven years in the United States Marine Corps, where he was an Infantry Company Commander. He has worked as a consultant for McKinsey & Co., as an investment analyst at Ewing & Partners, and at a startup medical device company in the People’s Republic of China.

He serves as the Chief Investment Officer and Director of the RBR Foundation, a philanthropic foundation focused on education and healthcare. A graduate of Princeton University’s Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs, Rogers holds a Masters in Business Administration from Harvard Business School (Baker Scholar).

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Matthew Rivett is the Executive Vice President of Local Motors and a leading force in automotive innovation. Matthew was a critical contributor to the development and manufacturing of Olli, the first |September 2018 | MM 2018

Thinking out of the Box With its experience in the industry, Local Motors has learned that in order to be at the forefront of any industry transformation, it takes a dedicated team who thinks outside the box, not just in business, but in everyday life. The organization has learned that in order to succeed, failures are not only understood, but anticipated and dissected to learn from our mistakes and create better products.

“Mass manufacturing is a relic of a past era. We’re in the middle of a mobility revolt where current modes of transportation are not sustainable and do not match up with rapidly changing consumer preferences. We can’t keep producing products the same way in which we’ve been accustomed. The world is moving too fast for traditional manufacturing to keep up. We are on a mission to transform mass manufacturing to micromanufacturing in order to match the new pace of technology and quickly changing consumer 102 MM |2018| S8eptember

needs.”- asserts CEO, Jay Rogers.

Tackling Challenges and Preparing for Better Future Local Motors believes, like with any new technology, there’s always a rate of adaption of which to be mindful. The rate of adaption can significantly affect the supply chain, both in cost of components/parts, but also in availability.

Local Motors strives to constantly develop and integrate new technologies from a variety of companies to ensure it always has the best, most effective and productive components. This enables the company to make changes quickly, as the industry changes at a rapid pace. The organization also believes that it has to be flexible, constantly planning for the future and the uncertainties. Local Motors aims to produce safe, quality, efficient products for its customers while creating a sustainable environment not only for today, but tomorrow as well.

Recently, the world has seen an immense demand for vehicles with an alternative energy source, particularly electric vehicles in today’s market. Local Motors continues to research, test and

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At Local Motors

by LMI, we believe that the best and brightest ideas can, and should, come from anyone and anywhere, not just from within the organization.

‘‘

ever self-driving shuttle. In collaboration with key stakeholders to raise funds and create innovative manufacturing processes, Matthew, oversaw the opening of Local Motors first international facility, and expanding the business to ensure further development of Olli. Before working on the Olli, Matthew produced the world’s first 3D printed vehicle called the Strati. Through his efforts in Program Management, crowd sourcing and collaborations with the Oakridge National Lab and Cincinnati Machine tools, the Strati became a reality.

develop the electrification of vehicles and systems. As a firm believer in open-source technology, the company believes in working collectively to bring the best vehicles to the consumers in the most effective way. As more companies invest and utilize electrification, the cost of these new technologies begins to reduce, allowing all to invest in the next generation of technology together.

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Wireless Charging: Future of Green Automotive

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ill now we have witnessed about wireless charging for electronic gadgets and devices only, but now we can also charge electric bikes, cars and buses wirelessly. Imagine that, we are driving on highway and our car’s battery drains. Now, instead of finding a fuel pump, electric power source, adapter, cable, etc. we just have to stop or park our car on wireless charging platform for short time, available at any shopping complex or food malls, again no need to come-out of the car, besides anyone’s assistance. This is really an amazing idea and this is going to true.

History Electromagnetic Induction, which dates to inventors such as Michael Faraday in the year 1831 and Joseph Henry in the year 1832. Faraday was the first to publish the results of his experiments. Nikola Tesla utilized electromagnetic energy to transmit the power between two coils in the early 1900s.

Faraday’s law of induction is a basic law of electromagnetism forecasting how a magnetic field will interact with an electric circuit and produces an electromotive force (EMF)—a phenomenon called electromagnetic induction. It is the fundamental working principle of transformers, inductors, and many types of electrical motors, generators, solenoids and wireless charging.

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Functioning Working of wireless charging is nearly same as ‘electric transformer’, but difference is in application only—Transformers are used to increase or decrease the alternating voltages in electric power applications through electromagnetic induction and Wireless Charger are used to transfer energy between two objects using electromagnetic field.

How exactly it Works Electric vehicle (EV) with wireless charging is having secondary coil fitted at bottom of vehicle and primary coil is securely installed on ground (i.e. charging platform).

The basic wireless charging system needs two coils. The primary coil, encased in a pad that sits on the floor of a garage or parking platform, is connected to a power source. Alternating current flows from an outlet into the coil, set up an electromagnetic field that enables the power to jump to a secondary coil in a pad attached to the bottom of the vehicle. When the vehicle parks in the proper position over the primary coil pad, an indicator light goes on and charging begins. The two coils must be |September 2018

Recharging Envirnment

facing within about 8 inches of each other for effective charging.

Pre-eminence over Cable Charging

efficiency, cost and safety pre-eminence over the traditional charging cable. This make possible to install it anywhere like; on the side of highways, parking lots, malls, multiplexes, toll plazas, etc.

Wireless Charging gives a convenient, safe, and reliable way to charge and power electrical vehicles at home, in the workplace and in industry. Wireless power maintains safe, continuous, and reliable transfer of power for all types of electric vehicles.

Experts predict more powerful wireless stations will be like to appear at office buildings, shopping centers and restaurants. When anyone parks vehicle at office or at restaurant it will get charged automatically in that space of time.

Wireless charging eliminates the use of physical connectors and cables. It provides a number of

Due to this effortless frequent power availability and safety, a vehicle does not need large batteries unlike for

September 2018|

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BMW is also working together with Mercedes-Benz on the technology, to develop a wireless charging system for its i3 electric vehicle and i8 plug-in hybrid. A prototype test version, made by Qualcomm technologies, is already in use in the BMW i8 safety car in the Formula E electric-vehicle race series. Qualcomm has exhibited its Halo system in various vehicles, including the Drayson B12/69 electric racing car. conventional cable charging. It makes vehicle light and compact, that tends to increase overall efficiency of vehicle.

Plug-in stations can be easily damaged in crowded metro cities. A number of municipalities have reported problems that thieves have cut EV charging cables to steal the copper from the wires. High-powered Level 3 stations, also called DC fast-charge, have large cables, which make them even more attractive to thieves.

“Imagine wireless electric-vehicle charging being as easy and widespread as Wi-Fi is today,” said Chris BorroniBird, former director of advanced technology vehicle concepts for General Motors and who is a vice president of strategic development at Qualcomm Technologies.

Implementation is in Progress Wireless charging technology is almost ready for the big stage. It is on the verge of initial deployment, starting from the Mercedes-Benz S500e plug-in hybrid sedan next year. They plan to fit wireless charging on the S500e plug-in hybrid sedan in 2017.

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Evatran’s Plugless aftermarket system is now commercially available for the LEAF and the Volt, and a Model S-compatible version is likely to come. Several major automakers have indicated that they’re working on offering wireless charging for future EVs. Tesla is also on the way of introducing its EV’s with wireless charging.

It is also already being piloted by some community bus systems. Buses need to take number of stoppage in city.

A wireless charger can be installed on a stopping platform— tends to reduce size of batteries— will improve efficiency electric bus.

Wireless charging technology is really amazing as invention of electric current. It is interesting to see how it will put back the conventional fossil fuel powered vehicle with clean, green, safe, silent and efficient electric vehicles with wireless charging for healthy future of planet Earth.

|September 2018

Delivering Effective Energy Solutions

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he electric vehicle industry has made it possible for the world to have an alternative over the fuel powered vehicles and is evolving ceaselessly.

These cars have become easy to maintain and recharge, can run on higher speed and are safe to drive. Many countries have initiated the manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (Evs).

China is leading the EV market accounting for 50% of global sales. Specific to the industry, it is vital for manufacturers to use the energy effectively for the vehicles to be efficient. There are many companies in the industry developing innovative solutions ready for the electric vehicle revolution. . One of them is OVO Energy.

Founded by Stephen Fitzpatrick in 2009, OVO Energy is the UK’s largest independent energy supplier. OVO Energy’s success lies in combining digital technology and human insights to completely transform consumers understanding and relationship with energy. Its aim is to make energy greener, simpler and easier for customers. In 2016, OVO was awarded the title of the World’s Best Energy Brand.

Moving beyond energy retail, through new products and services, OVO is now addressing some of the society’s biggest and most complex challenges such as climate change, increasing renewable energy availability, urban air pollution, integrating electric vehicles onto the power grid and optimizing battery chemistry to avoid degradation.

When OVO was launched, it brought great service, clear information, and honesty into a market dominated by the Big Six energy suppliers. The company is looking at the bigger picture with its plans. It believes that advancements in technology have the power to solve some of the world’s biggest and most pressing problems and aims to use it achieve the same. OVO is blending energy with smart technology to bring their customers new propositions, great service and renewable electricity.

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Surpassing Efficiency OVO Energy has over 850,000 retail customers offering standard tariffs with 33% renewable energy and a green tariff offering 100% renewable energy. However, over the past year it has moved beyond retail energy. Their world leading intelligent platform VCharge can securely connect to a range of flexible device types like electric vehicle chargers and optimises a range of real-time market signals to determine when to take action. To help realise the potential of VCharge, the company has launched the world’s first Vehicle-to-Grid electric vehicle charger, slashing consumers energy bills and helping balance the grid at times of peak demand. OVO has also launched its electric vehicle Smart Charger.

There is also a smart app to control V2G charger in more ways than one. Which means, the user can set charging schedule with the option to override them for unexpected journeys. The user will also be able to set minimum charge levels, and see live charging updates i.e. when the car is discharging or charging – so the user will always be ready to go, plus, keep a close eye on things by viewing historical charging data.

In the new world of distributed generation and storage, OVO believes energy technology will evolve at the same pace as consumer electronics, completely transforming the world’s second largest industry and rendering most existing business models obsolete.

The leader’s Tale Stephen Fitzpatrick is the CEO and Founder of OVO Energy. One of UK’s most successful entrepreneurs, in ten years Stephen has built a business that now serves over 1m customers with over £1bn in revenues. Since launching the company in 2009, Stephen has remained at the helm, building a team of over 1000 people and picking up countless awards along the way, including UK’s Entrepreneur of the Year in 2014. |September 2018 | MM 2018

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Fair prices, award-winning service, renewable electricity, and an ethical approach.

”

Prior to OVO, Stephen worked for JP Morgan and Societe Generale. Stephen is a Business graduate from the University of Edinburgh.

Embracing Challenges As more consumers choose electric vehicles, the potential for large spikes in electricity demand increases dramatically. If the world wants a green future, companies need to find smart charging solutions capable of integrating growing numbers of electric vehicles onto the network without compromising energy security. OVO believes the Vehicle-to-Grid platform is a part of the solution to shift all non-urgent charging to off peak periods as well as allow cars to act as a reserve power source for the home and grid.

Future Ready It is projected that there will be 1 million electric vehicles in the UK by 2020-22. One million electric vehicles would require nearly 2 TWh of energy each year, equating to more than £300m worth of electricity. The electric vehicle revolution will happen sooner than it is expected and OVO’s role is to make sure products and services are ready. In order to have a successful integration of electric vehicles onto the power grids, it’s essential that energy companies, the network operators and automakers collaborate. This means working together to avoid putting unnecessary constraints on the grid, to enable electric vehicle drivers to charge their vehicles using renewable energy and to help save them money.

102 MM |2018| S8eptember

Stephen Fitzpatrick CEO & Founder

OVO Energy

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Smarter and Faster Charging for Electric Vehicles

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he Need for Change Few people would disagree that our world stands at a precipice. Humankind’s drive to build bigger and more ostentatious symbols of wealth and power, coupled with unfettered consumerism has pushed the planet to the very edge.

However, all is not lost… yet.

As awareness of the dire situation grows, more individuals and companies are investing their time, energy and innovative skills into making a difference. One of those companies is Wallbox, which manufactures state-of-the-art charging systems for Electric Vehicles (Evs).

Vehicles that consume fossil fuels are among the largest single contributors to the pollution of the atmosphere. Electric vehicles emerged as the obvious solution to this problem a few decades ago and garnered a favorable reception from the public.

However, the lack of a reliable charging infrastructure to support EVs as a viable transportation option has forestalled what could be one of the most massive shifts in consumer behavior that we have ever known.

Wallbox seeks to address this shortcoming and pave the way for EVs to become the obvious - and dependable - choice for every responsible individual.

Envisioning a Better World Headquartered in Barcelona, the company was established in 2015 by Enric Asunción, CEO. Enric is an engineer with extensive experience in software and product development.

The idea for Wallbox came to him while he was working at Tesla. The focus of his work there revolved around simplifying and streamlining the charging process for EV owners; the experience did not only give him piercing insight into their motivations for choosing green vehicles but also the barriers that dissuaded others.

Enric Asunción CEO Wallbox Chargers

Enric realized that massive potential existed for the industry to expand if current and prospective owners had access to a superior charging solution. Wallbox is the culmination of many years of in-depth research and an inspired desire to use consumer-centric innovation to create a greener, cleaner world.

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|September 2018

The company comprises talented designers, engineers and programmers who have worked at some of the world’s foremost technology companies, including Tesla and Apple.

Their collective goal is to transform the way we consume energy.

Three Simple Solutions Central to the Wallbox suite of charging solutions is its proprietary technology that allows EV and hybrid vehicle owners to charge their vehicles up to eight times quicker than a conventional socket. They currently offer three different models, each rated to 22 kW, that conform to domestic and commercial installation standards.

The Pulsar is their compact smart solution, measuring just 16cm by 16cm. The Commander model gives users the convenience of touchscreen interaction. Their Copper model incorporates facial recognition technology for seamless, hands-free control and use.

Wallbox understands that the modern consumer wants instant access to information and statistics to better plan their valuable time. Every charger the company produces delivers this through internet connectivity via WiFi, Ethernet or Bluetooth.

The Wallbox app and desktop platform are not just static products; they give users the power to monitor, manage, and adjust their charging activity from anywhere in the world. Convenience aside, this feature rewards green consumers with savings of both time and money.

Wallbox also understands very well that users want more than just functionality – they want aesthetically pleasing products that become part of their stylish home or office décor. The Pulsar, Commander and Copper have been designed to fit this mold and not just blend into the surroundings, but become the centerpiece.

“We try to make it easy for everybody,” says Enric, “With an intuitive and visually-attractive product that gives users full control of their energy consumption, we are creating a process that will become part of their daily routines, just like recharging your mobile or any other technological device.”

Driving Multiple Industries The development of Wallbox’s chargers focused heavily on the end user. However, anything that benefits the consumer also drives the industry and that is a fact that Wallbox proves every day.

The progress and expansion of the EV industry has been impeded significantly by an inadequate charging infrastructure. Even the most committed European countries lack a charging network that gives potential EV 102 MM |2018| S8eptember

We have created intelligent charging solutions with the latest technology and an exclusive design. Our goal is for you to optimize the charging time for your vehicle and to be able to manage all the information on the your mobile or online platform. owners the confidence they need to invest in a green vehicle.

Instead of waiting for governments to catch up, Wallbox is taking the initiative to revolutionize how the existing infrastructure is used. A Wallbox unit is a simple and economically feasible installation that promotes energy conservation and relieves the stress on electricity grids.

They can be set up at any home, commercial premises or public space like car parks. The resulting visibility of convenient EV charging options is itself a great advertisement for the industry.

By creating a financial and a convenience incentive for consumers, Wallbox’s efforts are also good for automobile manufacturers who produce electric and hybrid vehicles.

Creating the Future Within just three years of its founding, Wallbox already counts some of Europe’s largest utility companies and car manufacturers among its clients. The company controls a large portion of the global market and is set to expand even further as it enters China.

The ‘sustainability’ theme is set to become the primary driver of vehicle sales in the near future and Wallbox is already well on a path that other companies will only begin to discover in the coming years.

Touching on the inevitable increase in competition that this will manifest itself as others enter the vertical, Enric expresses confidence that Wallbox has the capacity and the philosophy to overcome the approaching challenges.

“We want to be the best to lead the change, not the biggest.”

Humankind has devastated the planet’s equilibrium and the future hangs in the balance. Will Wallbox help to turn the tide? We certainly believe so.

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Dhruvil Sanghvi CEO & Co-founder

About The Author

Internet of Things is present in every Product we use. How has IOT changed thelives of humans?

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Dhruvil Sanghvi, CEO and Co-founder of LogiNext, youngest tech business head in Forbes India 30 under 30 (2017), started his journey post Carnegie Mellon University and effectively led LogiNext, the fastest growing logistics and eld workforce optimization SaaS enterprise, to the glory.

D

oes anyone remember a time before the Internet? Most of us have seen it, but it’s hard to recreate it in our mind. It only exists in long tales which we tell the young, tales of yesteryears where life wasn't occupied by technology. But we love technology. And the next evolution of the Internet would make the current time become another yesteryear tale. What is this next Internet evolution?

It’s the Internet of Things.

We know that Internet is where we access relevant and non-relevant information; connect with friends, peers, companies, and customers; and utilize to conduct our daily business and activities. So, what is the Internet of Things or IoT? IoT is when the devices which we use to connect and interact with Internet talk to each other.

‘Talk’ is exchange data among the devices with a view to facilitating better solutions and faster processes. |September 2018

Internet of Internet Now, your smartphone can connect to your television and laptop even when they aren’t in the same room. You can sync all your systems so that any change done at one place would reflect everywhere else.

“Where to?” Self-driving cars around the corner!

The true essence of IoT comes out when it is coupled with machine learning. Fast forward into a world of automation where self-driven cars aren’t fiction. The system in your car operates the engine, the sensors around the vehicle, the breaking, and everything else. It connects to the cloud, observing the traffic and weather patterns along the route you are about to take. It auto adjusts to the passing vehicles, all the while ensuring the safety of its passengers.’

There have been some issues with this as a couple of crashes being reported.

This tech can’t be forced live due to market pressures as the cost of mistakes is too high. Once autonomous cars do hit the roads, they would have to be perfect. But this isn’t more than a couple of years away. For now, let’s look at something that is already running and showing great results.

‘How do we get there?” Perfect route optimization is here!

We are used to having the best products and fastest services. To make this happen, people and goods must be constant on the move somewhere or the other. Be it from the manufacturers to warehouses or distributors, distributors to retailers, or directly to the customer's door, there are a lot of assets constantly moving.’

How is this logistics movement managed, tracked, and directed?

September 2018|

Technology, like that of LogiNext, tracks vehicles through GPS right from the time they are loaded to the point they finish their replenishment duties.

Delivery personnel and field agents such as technicians, supervisors, sales folks, etc. are tracked using their smartphones. The agents use our app to streamline their daily activities and sync live information gathered onground with their company’s central system.

This tech is not just the need of the hour; it’s what keeping the everexpanding need for cost-friendly logistics management in check.

Spiraling logistics costs arising from increased volume movement with a growing driver storage. Even the trend of same day/next day deliveries means that some vehicles are left underutilized.

Sensors and trackers, backed by a base machine learning based system, can now help managers optimize the capacities of their vehicles, assign the right load to the right driver/delivery associate, and eventually set the best route devoid of traffic and other bottlenecks to ensure on-time deliveries.

Delivery route planning and optimization, hence, is not just cutting down costs, but also incentivizing market evolution. Companies like Amazon and Walmart can ensure better customer service with timely deliveries and end-to-end order tracking. This helps create value for the customer, the company, and the economy.

“What's in the box?” Automated warehousing streamlines it!

distribution centers or warehouses.

Some high-value companies have already part automated the operations in these centers. As mentioned earlier, the sheer increase in the volume of goods moved nowadays means that the lead time even at warehouses must be shortened to the minimum.

If the order must reach a customer in a day, it can’t really spend about half of that at the center itself. The entire sorting and allocation system is automated. Some companies have even robotized some mundane functions within the warehouses.

“Do as I Say” Voice Controlled Logistics Movement We are well aware of the latest in virtual assistants such as Alexa, Siri, Google Home, etc. It's a handy way to automate activities around yourself.

You can just ask Alexa to book a cab while playing your favorite songs.

Google recently demonstrated proper AI capable bots which could even have impromptu conversations and book appointments. The obvious extension of this came with voice-controlled logistics management. Using the same ease of household directions, managers can automate the planning of delivery routes, dispatch shipments, tracking vehicles, etc. using just their voice.

They can talk to the system and do all of these things.

The idea is simple. IoT is going deeper and deeper into our lives, not just how we handle our phones, but also how we handle our businesses. Above all, we must remember that it’s only a tool. It's how we use it that would define our future.

With the development of machine learning backed logistics optimization, companies are investing in large

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