Until now, the electric vehicle (EV) charging experience has been fragmented, with automakers and charging networks using proprietary authentication and authorization solutions and sometimes offering features such as Plug & Charge within their network. The new development means vehicles, chargers and charging networks all will be able to talk to each other for the first time, advancing the industry toward a universal solution so every driver can plug in and start charging at any public station in the future.
The new framework creates a common security solution that will enable vehicles, chargers and charging networks to securely communicate with each other, achieving true interoperability across the entire charging ecosystem. Once the SAE EVPKI solution is implemented, EV drivers will benefit with:
Faster, automated charging with any public station and any car. Charging and payment processing happens seamlessly – no more using multiple apps or payment methods. This means reduced time to charge overall, and a more reliable charging experience. This works because the Certificate Trust List (CTL) developed by the SAE EVPKI Consortium enables secure, automated authentication at the onset of the charging transaction.
Improved cybersecurity protocols for the entire EV charging ecosystem – meaning security is built in from the start.
Opportunities to use the transformative innovations that Plug & Charge enables. For example, Plug & Charge lays the foundation for vehicle-grid integration (VGI) technologies, which will enable bidirectional energy flows, advanced grid services, and more resilient energy ecosystems.
The SAE EVPKI Certificate Trust List Requirements (CTL) is the basis for onboarding industry PKI suppliers to the new framework. PKI suppliers can review and develop to the CTL and apply to be an EVPKI-compliant PKI root. Throughout 2025, the industry will continue to move toward the universal Plug & Charge model, which will include:
A secure process to exchange technology among vendors
PKI user onboarding and testing
A new competitive EV Sector PKI supply market
EVPKI Consortium members span the EV charging ecosystem, including leading global automakers, EV charger manufacturers, charge point operators, eMobility service providers, and PKI suppliers.
SAE ITC is an affiliate of SAE International. SAE ITC specializes in establishing and managing consortia by providing proven processes, tools and resources. The Joint Office supports the deployment of zero-emission, convenient, accessible, and equitable transportation infrastructure. The Joint Office was created through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and facilitates collaboration between the US Department of Energy (DOE) and the US Department of Transportation (DOT).
