Metering.com 28 JULY 2016
Provider of smart grid charging solutions for EVs eMotorWerks has integrated Amazon Alexa home automation technology into its offering to enhance EV charging.
In a combined statement, eMotorWerks said it integrated Amazon Alexa’s technology with its JuiceNet platform.
The integration allows smart home devices to communicate with the EV charging system. Smart home and EV users will be able to effectively monitor their energy usage at home using the upgraded technology.
For instance, the integration of the two technologies allows EV users to monitor and control how their vehicles charge using voice commands.
Valery Miftakhov, CEO of eMotorWerks, said: “From the comfort of your couch you can ask Alexa, through Amazon Echo, ‘Alexa’, what is my charging speed, or how much range do I currently have.”
EV charging system technologies
The news follows eMotorWerk’s late March launch of its universal charging station adapter for EV Supply Equipment (EVSE).
According to eMotorWerks, the adapter ‘JuicePlug’ will enable California’s pre-existing non-networked charging stations connectivity with EV drivers using smart devices.
The solutions provider says the launch of the device will allow every EV driver in California’s PG&E, SCE, and SDG&E service territories to participate in company’s smart grid-EV charging programmes including the JuicePoints rewards programme. [California utilities and the road to EV adoption].
eMotorWerks claims the adapter manages the time and rate of an EV charging in coordination with eMotorWerks’ cloud-based JuiceNet smart-grid charging platform, which controls distributed energy loads across the grid.
The device includes an Android mobile app which drivers can use to access time of use charging fees as well as their charging history and real-time data on the company’s dashboard.
eMotorWerks believes the development will also help the power industry better balance local and regional grids, future proof their operations for expanding renewable energy generation and the mass adoption of electric vehicles.
Commenting on the launch of the adapter, Valery Miftakhov, Founder of eMotorWerks said: “Bringing the benefits of WiFi connectivity and anytime-anywhere control, coupled with cash rewards for smart-grid charging is an unbeatable solution for our customers. JuicePlug is not only affordable, it actually pays drivers to charge.” [US gov commits $4.5 billion to EV buildout].
Image credit: bmwi3 blogspot.com.