SEOUL, December 18 (AJP) - Hyundai Motor Group said on Thursday it will begin a large-scale expansion of its plug-and-charge (PnC) electric vehicle charging network next year, aiming to make EV charging more convenient and secure for drivers.
Plug-and-charge is an international standard that automatically manages user authentication, charging and payment when a vehicle is connected to a charger, the automaker said.
Unlike conventional EV charging systems that require drivers to use membership cards or credit cards, PnC relies on encrypted communication between the vehicle and the charging station, enabling a simpler and more secure user experience, Hyundai Motor Group said.
The group said it is working with 12 major charging operators in South Korea to extend PnC services beyond the 64 E-pit fast-charging stations.
Hyundai Motor Group plans to apply PnC technology to charging stations operated by Chaevi and Hyundai Engineering, expanding the number of PnC-enabled charging sites to more than 1,500. The company said it will then accelerate the rollout with the remaining 10 charging partners.
The group intends to align the expansion with the South Korean government’s policy to increase the number of smart, controlled chargers, validating communication standards and payment systems so PnC can also be used at slower charging stations.
“Expanding plug-and-charge services is a first step toward providing a more convenient charging experience in a wider range of locations,” Hyundai Motor Group said in a press release.
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