CTEK, a leading global brand in battery charging solutions, has announced a new firmware update that enables zero-touch charging for its latest EV charge points. Firmware update 4.9.1 introduces Autocharge functionality to CTEK’s CHARGESTORM CONNECTED 3 (CC3) units, streamlining the charging experience for EV drivers.
Simplified Charging with Autocharge
With Autocharge enabled, drivers using a CC3 charge point will simply need to plug in their electric vehicle. The charge point automatically communicates with the vehicle and, if a payment method has been previously set up, begins charging immediately. This faster, more convenient charging process is particularly beneficial for businesses with fleet or workplace charging, as well as destination charging locations, public charging networks, and residential community car parks. To prevent unauthorized access, only registered vehicles are authorized to charge via Autocharge.
How Autocharge Works
To utilize Autocharge, drivers need to pre-register their vehicle with the charging network’s backend. For the initial charge, drivers can also use an RFID card or authenticate through a mobile application. Autocharge relies on the Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) 1.6 and later, with the CC3 charge points supporting the latest version 2.0.1.
Enhanced Installation and Power Management
CTEK’s firmware version 4.9.1 also introduces wireless configuration over WiFi. This allows installers to configure and commission newly installed CC3 units remotely from a mobile phone or tablet, even from inside their work van. Additionally, the update enables customizable current limits per outlet, providing greater flexibility in distributing available power.
Wireless Load Balancing for CC3 and CC2
The new firmware also introduces key innovations for both CTEK’s current CC3 model and its predecessor, the CC2. Both models can now achieve wireless load balancing through CTEK’s NANOGRID AIR add-on. This technology enables dynamic power management without the need for physical wiring.
NANOGRID AIR for Dynamic Power Adjustment
NANOGRID AIR operates by reading information from a smart energy meter and communicating wirelessly with a CC3 or CC2 via a local area network’s WiFi. When multiple EV charge points are in use, the CC3 or CC2 connected to NANOGRID AIR dynamically adjusts the charging current for all chargers in the installation. This ensures that the total electrical load remains within the building’s available power limits. If overall energy consumption increases due to other electrical demands, the system temporarily reduces charging power. Once demand decreases, more power is automatically reallocated to the chargers. The wireless communication of NANOGRID AIR simplifies installation and reduces costs by eliminating the need for extensive cabling.
Scalable and Future-Proof Solution
The NANOGRID AIR solution is also scalable and future-proof, easily expanding as more charge points are added to accommodate a growing number of EVs. For larger sites with even more charge points, CTEK offers NANOGRID LOCAL PLUS for handling load balancing.
CTEK’s Vision for Simplified Charging
Daniel Forsberg, CTEK’s Marketing Manager EVSE, stated, “This firmware update unlocks exciting innovations for EV drivers, installers, charge point operators, employers and many others. Autocharge will simplify the driver experience of charging and streamline administration for operators. Wireless load balancing helps limit installation costs and prevents overloading of local power limits.”
