AeroVironment designed its smart charging system and supporting software to integrate easily with a utility’s IT network over various communication methods, including GPRS, Ethernet, WiFi and ZigBee.
The charging system enables communication with the utility to allow for easy monitoring of energy use, troubleshooting and data analysis to help optimize the grid, the company said.
AeroVironment’s Smart Charging Dock can charge an electric or plug-in hybrid car automatically or be pre-programmed by a utility or driver for optimal power draw so that the car charges when energy costs are lowest.
AeroVironment Efficient Energy Systems senior vice president and general manager Mike Bissonette said that the open architecture ensures that utilities will be able to incorporate it easily into their own monitoring systems.
