A cutting-edge initiative is set to redefine the future of electric mobility and smart infrastructure in the United States. Everged and Betacom, partnering with the Alabama Mobility & Power Center (AMP) at The University of Alabama (UA), announced a major launch today. Specifically, they launched a first-of-its-kind, cyber-secure innovation testbed featuring a fully stand-alone 5G Open RAN (ORAN) network. The new testbed functions as a living laboratory. It will accelerate the development of autonomous systems, resilient EV charging, and smart power management—all critical components for a sustainable future.
The Foundation: Private 5G for Autonomous Systems
First, Betacom brings its expertise in stand-alone private wireless networks to the collaboration. They leverage the UltraMax 5G ORAN platform, developed by LG Electronics. This secure, dedicated network delivers the high-performance connectivity that Industry 4.0 and next-generation mobility demand.
Unlike traditional Wi-Fi, the private 5G network ensures software-managed connectivity. It maintains ultra-low latency and robust security, even under heavy device loads. This reliability is non-negotiable for critical applications such as:
- Autonomous & Mobile Charging Systems
- Advanced Smart Grid Management
- Autonomous Robotics and Transportation
“Autonomous EV charging and next-generation mobility can’t happen without secure, high-performance connectivity,” said Jefferson W. Smith, CEO of Everged. “By combining our expertise with Betacom’s leadership in private 5G and the university’s innovative research environment, we can accelerate the development of autonomous systems, resilient EV charging, and smart power infrastructure—and help shape the future of mobility and energy.“
The Living Lab: Battery and Sustainability Innovation
In the field, the University of Alabama campus will deploy physical infrastructure. This infrastructure integrates Everged’s smart power solutions with the private 5G ORAN backbone. The testbed will feature state-of-the-art charging stations, mobile charging systems, and advanced real-time smart grid management solutions.
For readers focused on battery development and sustainability, this testbed represents a vital leap forward. The 5G ORAN enables secure, high-speed data transfer. This capability allows for granular, real-time monitoring and control of charging cycles and power flow. Furthermore, this is crucial for optimizing battery life, managing peak grid demand, and integrating renewable energy sources.
Mike Oatridge, Executive Director of AMP, highlighted the center’s unique position. “By combining secure 5G ORAN capabilities with advanced energy and charging solutions, we are creating a unique environment for research, innovation, and real-world testing. This collaboration will accelerate the development of smarter, more resilient infrastructure while opening new opportunities for our students, faculty, and industry partners.“
Accelerating Industry 4.0 and Workforce Development
Moreover, the partnership extends beyond research; it aims to strengthen the nation’s power infrastructure and accelerate broader Industry 4.0 adoption. The initiative provides students and faculty with hands-on experience in a fully secure, scalable industrial network. In this way, the program also serves as a critical component of workforce development.
“This partnership is a testament to the power of industry and academia working together to solve complex challenges,” added Johan Bjorklund, CEO of Betacom. “We are confident that together we will make significant strides in areas such as environmentally sustainable self-driving transit systems.“
Ultimately, this joint effort by Everged, Betacom, LG Electronics, and AMP positions the region as a national hub. They will test and deploy the next generation of interconnected, cyber-secure energy and transportation systems.
