The Reality of EV Charging Station Reliability

The electrification revolution is in full swing, and as electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular, the importance of reliable charging infrastructure cannot be overstated. A major concern for EV drivers is the reliability of charging stations. All too often, drivers encounter inoperable chargers, leading to frustration and doubt about EV viability.

Why Uptime Matters

According to recent reports, nearly a quarter of existing EV charging stations frequently malfunction. This statistic is a major deterrent for potential EV adopters who have “range anxiety” and concerns about being able to charge their vehicles when needed. Encountering an out-of-service station is a common frustration for EV drivers, undermining confidence in widespread EV adoption. With reports indicating that nearly 25% of existing EV charging stations are non-operational at any given time—this barrier is a significant impediment to both prospective and current EV drivers.

NEVI’s Commitment to Enhancing EV Infrastructure

Addressing the critical issue of charger reliability, the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program has set a high bar with a 97% uptime requirement for EV chargers. The NEVI program is a significant step forward in combating climate change, allocating nearly $5 billion by 2027 to establish a comprehensive network of fast-charging stations across federally designated highways. This initiative aims to facilitate the transition to renewable energy and ensure seamless travel for EV users nationwide.

Navigating Connectivity Challenges

A considerable contributor to charging failures is inadequate connectivity. Data shows that over half (55%) of all charging failures stem from stations being unable to connect to their cellular networks for authentication. Most EV charging networks rely on cellular connections, which must be robust to ensure functionality. This is where eSIM technology comes in, quickly becoming the preferred connectivity solution for EV infrastructure.

eSIM Technology: The Key to Uptime Reliability

eSIM technology, with its robust and versatile connectivity capabilities, is emerging as a critical solution for the evolving EV charging industry. Charging stations equipped with eSIM can maintain reliable connections to leading cellular networks, crucial for meeting NEVI’s uptime reliability standards and consistently reducing downtime.

eSIM’s superiority in network reliability and flexibility allows EV chargers to connect to any network worldwide over-the-air (OTA). This technology is essential for processing payments, collecting and transmitting energy usage data, sending notifications when stations are non-functional, and ensuring drivers can locate operational chargers.

How eSIM Enhances Connectivity

Operational excellence is no longer optional but mandated and measured. Companies must ensure their hardware, software, and connectivity align to meet these NEVI’s 97% uptime targets, setting the industry standard for what EV charging should look like. eSIM is helping to solve one of the major issues contributing to today’s reliability issues in the following ways.

• Always-On Connectivity: eSIM technology ensures continuous connectivity for EV chargers via its multi-carrier network capabilities.
• Reliability and Redundancy: With eSIM, charging station operators can switch between different networks as needed, providing a backup solution in case of network downtime or connectivity issues.
• Faster Deployment and Simplified Operations: eSIM speeds up installation times as chargers can be sent to any location and connected to the right networks over-the-air. This removes the need for cellular site surveys, and eliminates the need to manage multiple SIM cards and contracts with various cellular providers. One eSIM from TEAL, and one contract provides connectivity onto any network globally on-demand.
• Enhanced Customer Experience: True eSIM technology offers uninterrupted connectivity even during network failures, significantly improving the customer experience and accelerating EV adoption by eliminating “range anxiety.”

Impact on Charging Station Operators

For station operators, NEVI’s reliability requirements emphasize the need for always on connectivity. This push towards innovation encourages the adoption of mission critical technologies like eSIM, offering dependable connectivity solutions.

When it comes to broader electrification goals, the impact of reliable charging infrastructure is far-reaching, potentially increasing EV adoption rates by providing drivers with peace of mind and reducing “range anxiety”.

NEVI’s uptime reliability provision is a pledge to EV drivers everywhere that infrastructure issues will soon be a thing of the past. This Federal mandate ensures that EV charging companies prioritize reliability (and connectivity) as much as availability.

Charging networks that meet the ambitious reliability standards with eSIM and other modern technological adaptations will lead the way in mainstream EV adoption. For the EV industry, it’s not just about reaching the destination—it’s about ensuring a smooth, worry-free, and dependable ride.

Discover How eSIM Can Transform Your Business

Find out how eSIM technology can ensure your charging stations remain connected at all times. Contact a TEAL expert today to learn how you can ensure that your EV charging stations are always connected to the best networks, not matter where they’re located.

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Elevate your EV charging stations with TEAL – Because every charge counts towards a sustainable future!

For additional insights and updates on EV charging infrastructure and policies, stay connected with our blog. Wherever your next ride takes you, know that a reliable, seamless charging experience awaits.