Mercedes-Benz India calls for unified EV charging platform
What's the story
Mercedes-Benz India has proposed the creation of a unified platform, aimed at providing real-time data on all operational electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.
This initiative is expected to streamline the charging process for EV owners.
The company's Managing Director and CEO, Santosh Iyer, believes that such a platform could significantly improve customer experience and promote wider adoption of electric vehicles in India.
Infrastructure democratization
CEO advocates for democratization of EV charging infrastructure
Iyer has emphasized the need to democratize the charging infrastructure for EVs.
He highlighted that current EV owners must navigate multiple apps to access different charging services.
"Today, if you buy an electric car, you need 3-4 different apps on your phone," Iyer told PTI.
He suggested that a unified platform similar to a UPI-based system could resolve this issue and enhance user convenience.
App inefficiencies
Iyer highlights challenges with current apps
Iyer pointed out that while India leads in digital technology, the country's EV charging sector still relies on several apps.
These apps often do not communicate with each other and have inconsistent payment gateways.
"They (apps) don't talk to each other...payment gateways are not in sync...if it can be solved the convenience of EVs will be next level," Iyer said.
Simplification appeal
Mercedes-Benz India CEO urges government to simplify EV charging
Iyer used the example of Mercedes customers in Germany and other parts of the world, who can pay for various services including charging, through a single app.
He expressed that this level of convenience is currently unattainable in India due to the lack of a unified charge point operator.
"But in India, we are not able to execute fully because we don't have a single charge point operator who can aggregate it," Iyer said.
Adoption hurdle
Iyer stresses on customer convenience for EV adoption
Iyer warned that if the system remains complex, customers may be deterred from adopting electric vehicles.
He urged the Indian government to develop a platform that includes all aggregators.
"Government needs to come up with a platform and then all aggregators need to be there," he said.
Last year, reports suggested that the government was developing a master app to help customers locate nearest charging stations on a map.
Sales growth
Mercedes-Benz India reports increase in EV sales
Despite the challenges, Iyer reported that EV sales constituted about 2.5% of Mercedes-Benz India's total sales last year.
This figure has doubled to 5% this year, indicating a growing acceptance among consumers.
"That's the ray of hope that you keep seeing that...acceptance is increasing," Iyer said.
Currently, Mercedes-Benz India offers six battery electric vehicles and manufactures two models - EQS SUV 580 4MATIC and EQS sedan - at its Pune-based plant.