Explore how software-defined vehicles are transforming the automotive market.

Experienced content writer with over 6 years of experience in the energy sector and many industry-related publications released.

Gabriela Stawiarska

Throughout history, there seem to be two types of leaps in technology that captivate us most. The ones that are completely otherworldly and the ones that redefine everyday objects we once took for granted. Anything in the usability-middle oftentimes goes unnoticed. Cars, as a cornerstone of modern life, are no exception to the first group.

Think of it this way: remember when cell phones were basically just fancy walkie-talkies, and then, almost overnight, they turned into pocket-sized supercomputers? That same seismic shift is now coming to the car industry. Software-defined vehicles - cars driven as much by code as by horsepower - are rewriting the rules of the road. With constant over-the-air updates to customizable driving experiences, the traditional metal-and-engine car is under a threat of being replaced by a machine that’s just as much a tech platform as it is a transportation tool. This, however, isn’t probably much of an ‘overnight’ process like it was with smartphones. Chances are, it’ll take a bit longer.

A software-defined vehicle (SDV) represents a significant departure from traditional car designs, where the core functions and features were largely determined by physical hardware. In an SDV, software plays a central role in governing nearly all aspects of the vehicle’s performance, including safety, efficiency, entertainment, and driving dynamics. Software controls everything from basic functions such as braking and steering to advanced systems like autonomous driving, sensor fusion, infotainment interfaces, and driver assistance technologies. This shift is enabled by the increasing complexity of the vehicle’s electronic architecture, which today may include hundreds of electronic control units (ECUs) and millions of lines of code working in unison. The underlying components that make SDVs feasible include three key pillars: software, hardware, and connectivity. Software serves as the brain, providing the logic and decision-making processes that drive vehicle functionality. For the software to operate effectively, it needs to be supported by an appropriate hardware architecture. High-performance computing systems—often built on centralized or zonal computing platforms—are now replacing the numerous independent ECUs found in traditional vehicles to reduce complexity and increase efficiency. These integrations allow for smoother communication between systems, elevated processing power, and better coordination among sensors, cameras, and other electronics. Connectivity is the final piece of the puzzle, enabling SDVs to continuously evolve and adapt over time. As vehicles become part of the larger Internet of Things (IoT), they can exchange data with other vehicles, road infrastructure, and cloud platforms. This constant flow of information empowers features like real-time traffic updates, predictive maintenance, and enhanced energy management. Over-the-air (OTA) updates enable automakers to push new features, improve existing capabilities, and ensure cybersecurity—all without requiring a visit to the dealership. This agile development process means SDVs remain state-of-the-art and responsive to shifting consumer expectations, regulatory policies, and advancements in technology throughout the life of the vehicle.

A software-defined vehicle] is best understood as a dynamic digital platform on wheels, where functionality is largely determined by software rather than static mechanical components. While legacy vehicles rely on individual electronic control units (ECUs) to manage isolated functions such as engine performance or infotainment, SDVs consolidate much of this intelligence into high-performance computing platforms. In this model, software handles key tasks like coordinating sensor data, executing driver-assistance algorithms, and managing connectivity features - often in real time. To accommodate these capabilities, modern vehicles may contain a network of cameras, radar, lidar, and other sensors that feed data into powerful processors capable of supporting machine learning, advanced analytics, and split-second decision-making.

At the core of an SDV’s architecture is a service-oriented framework that decouples hardware from software. This approach allows manufacturers to design a unified operating system, standardized middleware, and robust cybersecurity controls, independent of specific hardware constraints. As a result, vehicle functionalities - from automated driving routines to infotainment interfaces - can be updated or reconfigured through over-the-air (OTA) software patches. These updates, delivered via secure connectivity channels, ensure that the car’s digital ecosystem remains agile, adapting to new technologies and user preferences long after the original purchase. In practical terms, drivers benefit from both immediate improvements - like bug fixes or fresh infotainment apps - and ongoing enhancements, such as refined autonomous driving algorithms and additional safety features.

Shifting from distributed ECUs to more centralized or zonal architectures also reduces system complexity. In a centralized setup, one or a few powerful controllers manage multiple domains, improving efficiency and minimizing duplication of functions across different ECUs. This design streamlines communication pathways, making it easier to handle data-intensive processes and integrate advanced capabilities. Additionally, the hardware infrastructure is specifically engineered to support high-bandwidth data transfer, robust storage, and fast processing speeds—attributes that are increasingly critical for autonomous driving and connected services.

Ultimately, the software-defined approach aligns well with emerging trends in electrification, automation, and connectivity. Electric vehicles, for example, rely heavily on software to optimize battery usage and motor control, while automated driving systems demand ever-increasing computational power to interpret and act on sensor feedback. Connectivity, meanwhile, transforms each vehicle into a node within the Internet of Things, capable of communicating with other cars, infrastructure, and cloud services. By treating the vehicle as an upgradable digital platform, manufacturers can respond more swiftly to evolving market demands and regulatory landscapes, offering consumers vehicles that continually improve in both functionality and user experience.

According to research from MarketsandMarkets.com, the global market for software-defined vehicles (SDVs) is poised for remarkable growth - rising from an estimated USD 213.5 billion in 2024 to USD 1,237.6 billion by 2030, at a robust CAGR of 34.0%. A number of factors are driving this expansion, including the growing need to enhance the driving experience through advanced software features, reduced recall and manufacturing costs, and increasingly personalized client engagement. Additionally, the rapid adoption of 5G technology and the integration of ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) and artificial intelligence (AI) into digital cockpits are creating new opportunities for SDV innovation. These trends are paving the way for advanced FOD (Functions on Demand) and other value-added services, which, in turn, offer fresh revenue streams for OEMs.

Leading innovators such as Tesla (US), Li Auto Inc. (China), NIO (China), Rivian (US), and XPENG Inc. (China) are redefining the competitive landscape in the Software Defined Vehicle market through strategic expansions, partnerships, and product breakthroughs. Tesla has long been at the forefront of software-centric automotive design, offering cutting-edge over-the-air updates and autonomous driving features. Li Auto Inc. and NIO, meanwhile, are gaining global recognition for pioneering electric and intelligent vehicle platforms - ranging from battery-swapping technology to AI-driven infotainment systems. Rivian, with its focus on electric adventure vehicles, has forged partnerships to scale production and push the boundaries of sustainable mobility. XPENG is building its market share on the strength of advanced driver-assistance systems, agile product development, and a growing international footprint. Collectively, these players exemplify how software-driven innovation can reshape not only the driving experience but also the entire automotive value chain, from manufacturing processes to long-term customer engagement.

Software-Defined Vehicles: Redefining the Road Through Code and Connectivity

A look into the new OCPI 3.0: key updates, new features, and benefits for EV charging

The Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI) is a leading protocol enabling scalable and automated electric vehicle roaming. Managed by the EVRoaming Foundation, OCPI fosters seamless interactions between Charge Point Operators and eMobility Service Providers. It empowers EV drivers with effortless access to charging infrastructure across various networks worldwide, while reducing the complexity of traditional roaming solutions like centralized hubs.

OCPI facilitates real-time data exchange about EV charging locations, availability, and tariffs.

By providing a standardized framework, OCPI simplifies roaming arrangements, enabling EV drivers to access any connected charge point without pre-registration. This improves transparency, enhances market development, and ensures operators can execute their business models effectively.

OCPI was first conceptualized in 2012 by ElaadNL, a Dutch innovation hub specializing in Smart Charging and charging infrastructure. Collaborating with prominent grid operators in the Netherlands, ElaadNL sought to streamline communication between EV charging operators and service providers by introducing a standardized protocol. This initiative aimed to simplify connections across various charging networks, fostering greater interoperability and ease of use for the growing EV ecosystem.

Initially overseen by the Netherlands Knowledge Platform for Public Charging Infrastructure (NKL), OCPI’s governance transitioned to the EVRoaming Foundation in May 2020. The first official version, OCPI 2.0, was launched in 2015, laying the groundwork for what has become a globally embraced standard. Since then, the protocol has seen continuous refinement, with version 2.2.1 currently in widespread use worldwide. This global footprint spans Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Oceania, supporting seamless EV roaming and data exchange among diverse stakeholders​​.

The upcoming OCPI 3.0 addresses limitations in earlier versions and introduces enhancements. Notable features include support for Plug & Charge and Autocharge, robust communication between CPOs and drivers, and strengthened security measures. By adopting industry-standard frameworks and simplifying interoperability, OCPI 3.0 aligns with emerging trends, such as autonomous vehicle charging and GDPR-compliant data sharing.

With OCPI, the EV ecosystem takes a significant step toward a more interconnected and efficient future, driving the global transition to sustainable mobility​​.

Enhanced Communication Between CPOs, eMSPs, and Drivers

OCPI 3.0 resolves previous communication gaps between Charge Point Operators (CPOs) and e-Mobility Service Providers (eMSPs). Earlier versions did not allow direct messaging to inform EV drivers about issues such as billing or charging disruptions. In OCPI 3.0:

CPOs can send real-time push notifications to EV drivers through the eMSP's communication channels, such as mobile apps.

eMSPs can display essential updates like pricing changes or error messages directly on the charge point screen, significantly improving transparency and reducing user frustration.

To prevent charging sessions from exceeding reserved credit limits, OCPI 3.0 introduces better control mechanisms. While earlier versions relied on frequent monitoring and manual intervention, this version provides automated functionality to ensure sessions remain within the predefined credit scope, enhancing reliability for both providers and users.

OCPI 3.0 enhances security by advocating the use of industry-standard protocols, ensuring data integrity during transmission. The focus on securing direct and hub-based connections minimizes risks of unauthorized data alteration, ensuring higher trust among roaming partners.

OCPI 3.0 introduces support for Plug & Charge and Autocharge, enabling vehicle authentication directly through the charging cable connection. This eliminates the need for RFID cards or mobile apps, simplifying the process for EV drivers. This functionality is particularly valuable for:

Autonomous vehicle charging scenarios, where no human interaction is available.

Enhanced convenience, as drivers can start charging by simply connecting their vehicle to the station.

Dynamic Pricing and Cryptocurrency Payments

The new version expands payment options by allowing ad-hoc tariffs for local payment terminals and supporting cryptocurrency payments. Drivers can choose from multiple currencies, and updated tariffs can be displayed on the charge point in real time.

OCPI 3.0 supports the exchange of detailed load and frequency measurements with grid operators. This functionality enables grid operators to balance energy loads efficiently, maintaining grid stability and optimizing charging schedules in real-time.

Recognizing the importance of data privacy, OCPI 3.0 incorporates features aligned with the European GDPR framework. This includes functionality for data access and deletion requests to comply with "right to access" and "right to be forgotten" regulations.

With OCPI 3.0, the protocol is equipped to handle complex roaming scenarios. For instance, it facilitates seamless migration when an eMSP’s customers transition to a new provider due to mergers or acquisitions, ensuring uninterrupted service during ownership changes.

OCPI 3.0: key updates in the newest version

A recent hot EV topic straight from the USA uncovered.

Being an eMobility leader in various projects across multiple startups, Piotr was responsible for OCPI and OCPP integration as well as EMP and CPO platforms development. With extensive expertise in the open standards field and eMobility tech solutions, he is leading teams of experienced developers and contributing with invaluable knowledge and experience.

Piotr Majcher

The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program, established by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), represents a key component of the U.S. federal government’s strategy to support a nationwide transition to electric vehicles (EVs). NEVI aims to create a comprehensive, equitable, and accessible EV charging network across the country, addressing gaps in infrastructure while fostering resilience and convenience. With federal funding and guidance, the program is designed to reduce emissions, increase energy security, and provide economic opportunities through EV adoption.

The U.S. eMobility industry has experienced significant growth due to heightened environmental awareness and supportive policies. While EV sales have surged, the supporting infrastructure—especially in rural areas, underserved communities, and critical long-distance travel routes—remains underdeveloped. The NEVI program addresses these needs by enabling states to deploy EV charging infrastructure strategically, helping to eliminate barriers to EV use and ensure a reliable nationwide network for all Americans.

The NEVI Formula Program, launched with the BIL on November 15, 2021, allocates $5 billion over five years to develop a cohesive national EV charging network, with initial focus on Alternative Fuel Corridors (AFCs) along U.S. interstates. This network, particularly critical along interstate routes, aims to enhance the EV user experience by reducing "range anxiety." States are encouraged to work closely with energy agencies, local governments, private sectors, and communities to create infrastructure that is not only efficient but also meets diverse needs and promotes equitable access. The program’s ultimate goal is to ensure that drivers across the U.S. have convenient, reliable access to charging stations, thus enhancing the accessibility and reliability of EVs as a primary transportation option​.

The NEVI Formula Program’s $5 billion budget is allocated through an annual, formula-based approach. Federal funds cover 80% of project costs, with states or local entities responsible for the remaining 20%. States have flexibility to meet this match requirement with state funds, private investments, or other approved sources. NEVI also allows states to combine NEVI funds with additional federal programs, such as the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) program, to optimize resource use and expand the reach of EV infrastructure. Additionally, a unique aspect of the NEVI program is a 10% annual set-aside of funds that may be directed toward discretionary grants aimed at supporting localities that need extra assistance, thus facilitating targeted support in areas with specific needs​.

Each state is required to submit an annual EV Infrastructure Deployment Plan outlining how they intend to use their NEVI allocations. Plans must align with NEVI guidelines and undergo approval from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). These plans must address key elements such as the strategic siting of charging stations, coordination with local stakeholders, public engagement, adherence to NEVI standards, and compliance with environmental regulations. Deployment Plans also need to define five-year objectives, including measurable targets for charging stations and deployment timelines, to promote both immediate and sustained growth in EV infrastructure. The latest update emphasizes streamlined plan updates and the inclusion of long-term vision to help meet both state and national goals​.

To receive NEVI funding, projects must be publicly accessible and meet rigorous technical and operational standards, such as minimum power levels, charger types, and network interoperability. Projects should be located within one mile of designated AFCs until the corridor is certified as fully built out, ensuring widespread access to reliable charging facilities. Additionally, NEVI funds can be used for projects that support accessibility to EV stations, such as signage, traffic control devices, and workforce development initiatives to maintain long-term station functionality. Notably, the guidance specifies detailed technical standards that ensure reliability, efficiency, and interoperability, helping to build a consistent experience for users across the country​.

The NEVI program is overseen by the FHWA in collaboration with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation. This administration involves providing states with technical support, monitoring program compliance, and tracking outcomes such as fund utilization, station deployment, and accessibility of charging networks. Annual reports on project progress are required from each state to maintain accountability. NEVI also prioritizes data sharing, network interoperability, and cybersecurity to ensure a resilient infrastructure. Furthermore, the program is committed to inclusivity, integrating civil rights considerations to guarantee equal access and opportunities within the EV charging network​.

The Joint Office offers various resources to support states, including data on existing station locations, tools for demand modeling, and templates for public engagement. States are also encouraged to use the Justice40 Initiative screening tool to evaluate potential benefits to disadvantaged communities, ensuring that infrastructure deployment aligns with environmental justice goals. Technical assistance and available tools support states in addressing challenges related to equitable deployment, public engagement, environmental compliance, and the overall sustainability of EV infrastructure, making the NEVI program a comprehensive resource for states in their electrification efforts​.

Alternative Fuel Corridors and Their Role in NEVI

Alternative Fuel Corridors (AFCs) are strategic locations designated by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) in accordance with 23 U.S.C. 151. These corridors support the installation of infrastructure for EV charging, as well as hydrogen, propane, and natural gas fueling. The AFC network spans major highways nationwide, addressing key areas for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving mobility for both passenger and commercial vehicles utilizing alternative fuels.

The FHWA continuously updates and redesignates these corridors in partnership with state and local officials, responding to changes in technology, market adoption, and infrastructure expansion. Importantly, AFC designations have become increasingly significant under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which ties them directly to funding eligibility for both the NEVI Formula Program and the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant Program. This connection enables BIL-funded investments to target the most impactful locations for infrastructure deployment, supporting the U.S. goal of a nationwide network of 500,000 EV chargers. This network will:

Accelerate equitable adoption of EVs, benefiting those without reliable home charging options;

Lower transportation-related emissions, helping the U.S. achieve net-zero emissions by 2050;

Position U.S. industries at the forefront of global transportation electrification while creating union jobs that cannot be outsourced.

By prioritizing AFCs, the NEVI Formula Program ensures that infrastructure development aligns with both immediate needs and long-term national goals, fostering sustainable mobility solutions across diverse regions and communities​.

The NEVI Formula Program is a transformative initiative in the push to expand EV infrastructure across the United States. By providing targeted funding and strategic deployment guidance, NEVI is bridging infrastructure gaps and supporting rapid EV growth across regions and communities. This program aligns with the Biden-Harris Administration's climate objectives, and it helps secure the U.S. position as a global leader in sustainable transportation. Working in tandem with states, local partners, and diverse stakeholders, the NEVI program will enable a cleaner, more resilient transportation network, fostering sustainable and inclusive mobility for all Americans.

The NEVI Formula Program: Advancing Electric Mobility Infrastructure in the United States

We share some thoughtful insights on how focus on software can improve eMobility businesses.

eMobility seems to have gotten to an interesting point, where patching up of what’s lacking behind and implementation of the newest technologies occur simultaneously. This dual approach, though seemingly contradictory, has led to surprising progress. On one hand, there are ongoing efforts to fix issues like range anxiety or limited charging infrastructure - persistent concerns that have plagued electric vehicles since their inception. On the other hand, innovations in autonomous driving, AI-powered energy management, and vehicle-to-grid technology are pushing the boundaries of what eMobility can offer.

What may seem weird for industry outsiders, has found its usability for those operating in eMobility daily. The parallel efforts appear to complement each other and accelerate mass EV adoption.

With twofold streams of work, the need to keep it all well-controlled, balanced and profitable at the same time should become a high priority on everyone’s list. And it’s not an easy task, especially for those who fall behind in terms of technology that’s in the background of a lot of these processes - software.

Software is the common ground in retrofitting old challenges and embracing the latest tech. It also connects the two and makes them fully functional. Looking at some of the unfolding trends in eMobility, software will continue to firmly take part in all of the upcoming proceedings. Amongst those, we can surely differentiate:

far-reaching automation with AI and software

With all the progress and growing number of companies joining the market, existing and new EV charging brands should really consider upgrading their software game. There are several reasons that particularly stand out.

One of the key reasons EV charging companies should prioritize becoming more software-oriented is risk management. For Charge Point Operators (CPOs), the core of their business revolves around managing large networks of EV charging stations, which can number in the thousands. The backbone of this infrastructure is the software that controls these stations, ensuring they run smoothly and efficiently. However, many CPOs rely on third-party software providers for this critical component, which introduces significant risks.

When CPOs outsource their Charging Point Management Systems to external providers, they expose themselves to vulnerabilities beyond their control. These include the possibility of the SaaS provider going bankrupt, being acquired by a competitor, or suddenly changing their pricing structure, leading to unpredictable and growing operational expenses. Even more concerning, CPOs might find themselves at the mercy of the software provider’s product development roadmap, unable to influence features or updates that are crucial for the future success of their charging network. In a market that’s rapidly evolving, this lack of control can be detrimental. 

By taking ownership of their software (i.e. by licensing, thus owning the source code), CPOs can mitigate these risks, ensuring greater security and long-term stability for their operations.

Reliability is an absolute must-have in eMobility, whether we’re talking about implementing the latest innovations like AI-powered energy management or simply ensuring that legacy features run smoothly. As the sector continues to evolve, the demand for systems that work seamlessly across all aspects of the EV ecosystem—charging, infrastructure, energy management—grows stronger. No matter how advanced or basic a system may be, reliability is the foundation that enables progress without setbacks.

Unfortunately, one of the most common and frustrating issues facing Charge Point Operators today is a lack of continuity in their software systems. Shockingly, almost 30% of charging sessions fail due to poor software performance. There's a growing concern across the industry that CPMS downtime is becoming far too common. It’s an all-too-familiar scenario: a software update is deployed with the intent to improve system functionality, only for the entire platform to go down. Instead of streamlining operations, these disruptions create significant setbacks, a troubling pattern in a fast-moving industry like eMobility where every minute counts.

The expectation is simple: updates should enhance performance, not bring the system to a standstill. Yet, many legacy systems still struggle with this, and the widespread acceptance of frequent downtimes only adds to the problem. These outages, often coupled with poor customer service and outdated user experiences, can wreak havoc on a CPO’s operations, leaving both the business and its customers frustrated. Moreover, CPOs relying on third-party software lose control over product quality, roadmaps, and innovation, putting them at a disadvantage. Lack of reliable support further compounds the issue, impacting day-to-day operations and straining relationships with clients. If CPOs are to thrive in this competitive environment, owning and improving their software infrastructure is crucial for both reliability and long-term success.

Like with any other businesses, CPOs try to make profit off their companies and in today’s competitive market, finding those margins is becoming more challenging. As CPOs scale their operations, many find that the software tools they rely on for managing charging stations are eroding their profitability instead of enhancing it. This often happens when these tools are structured to take a percentage of the revenue or when their costs increase linearly with the expansion of the business. The bigger the network grows, the higher the costs, making it difficult for CPOs to turn a healthy profit.

Instead of continuously paying for software that chips away at their margins, CPOs should consider a one-time investment in CAPEX to either build or license their own digital ecosystem. By developing their own Charging Point Management System (CPMS), CPOs can have full control over costs, reducing the long-term operational expenses associated with third-party providers. This move not only safeguards profitability but also opens up new avenues for growth, as owning the software allows for customization and flexibility that can further optimize business performance. A well-executed, in-house CPMS offers CPOs a path to profitability while providing the autonomy to shape their business as the industry evolves.

In the fast-paced world of eMobility, running an EV charging business without strong software capabilities is a bit like trying to steer a ship without a rudder—you might make progress, but you’ll struggle to stay on course when challenges arise. The dual task of retrofitting old systems while simultaneously embracing cutting-edge technologies requires more than just hardware solutions. From risk management to reliability and profitability, the software that powers these charging networks is the invisible hand guiding the entire operation.

Outsourcing software may seem convenient, but as the industry grows, so do the risks. Without control over critical software, CPOs expose themselves to vulnerabilities that can affect everything from operational stability to financial margins. Unreliable systems lead to downtime that frustrates customers and hampers growth, while software tools that chip away at revenue make profitability increasingly elusive.

Investing in an in-house digital ecosystem is like building a reliable foundation under the house of your business—it not only ensures stability but also future-proofs your operations against evolving industry demands. Whether it's keeping up with the latest innovations or addressing long-standing issues, software is the key that unlocks the full potential of a charging network. For CPOs, upgrading their software game isn’t just a smart move—it’s an essential step toward staying competitive and ensuring long-term success in the ever-changing sphere of eMobility.

Why should CPOs become technological, software-oriented companies?

Learn more about out charging station simulation tool that's available for anyone via open source.

Krzysztof is our Head of Products and he leads the technical development behind the suite of our ready-made solutions. Throughout the years in Solidstudio, he gained an invaluable insight into the eMobilty industry’s requirements and is now more than qualified to share his knowledge with others.

Krzysztof Ciombor


While we publish a lot about our regular products, our open source solutions remain available for everyone. It’s time we remind everyone about Virtual Charge Point - our open-source tool that serves as a charging station simulator and a great digital gadget to test Charge Point Management Systems.


To make it even more accessible, we’re now adding a video tutorial on how it works and how to use it.


Our VCP is an OCPP charging station simulator allowing for trouble-free testing and monitoring of the EV charging management systems (CPO platforms). It imitates user-made activities, like plugging/unplugging the cable or scanning RFID tokens which allows operators to test their managing software without the need of connecting it to the actual chargers early on the testing stages.



We hope that many Charge Point Operators will be able to benefit from our solution, as well as from all the publications sharing our tech knowledge. We’re happy that we get to contribute to the industry from this side as well.

We also offer advanced consulting services (i.e. platform migration plans and roadmap) - those who look to get even more tech insights are more than welcome to 

Virtual Charge Point - a video tutorial for our open-source tool

See the recording from our recent webinar taking on the financial side to obtaining software.

After founding Solidstudio, Pawel was an originator in terms of pursuing expertise in eMobility. With the build-up of a solid knowledge-base on industry’s needs & wants, he now keeps a close eye on products’ development. He’s also hugely responsible for the business’ side and designs the business models for our products.

Paweł Małkowiak

Having already delivered a ton of tech-focused materials, the time has come that we’ve talked a bit more about the business side to software within the EV charging sphere. In our latest webinar Paweł Małkowiak shed more light on the financial aspects of acquiring and maintaining EV charging software, including the third way - a business model often overlooked by many operators and software companies alike.

Paweł kicked off with a quick overview of the eMobility software landscape, identifying the key players and their roles:

Charge Point Operators (CPOs): Manage the charging networks.

eMobility Service Providers (EMSPs): Offer charging services to EV drivers.

Open Standards like OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol) and OCPI (Open Charge Point Interface): Ensure interoperability between different systems, enabling seamless integration across various platforms.

The main part of the webinar focused around the ways in which one may acquire software and who would benefit from them the most.

SaaS provides a quick setup process, allowing companies to get started with minimal initial investment. Additionally, SaaS solutions come with ongoing updates and support, ensuring that the software remains up-to-date and any issues are promptly addressed. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The operational costs associated with SaaS tend to increase linearly over time, which can become significant as usage grows. There are also potential issues with data ownership, as the data resides on the service provider's servers. Furthermore, because SaaS solutions are shared among multiple users, companies might find it challenging to gain a competitive edge due to the standardized features available to all users.

By choosing this route, companies gain full ownership of their software, allowing them to create tailored solutions that provide unique competitive advantages. This can lead to potential long-term cost savings and an increase in company valuation through the creation of proprietary intellectual property. However, custom development also comes with notable challenges. It requires significant time and financial investment to develop the software from scratch. There is also the risk of "reinventing the wheel," where companies may spend resources developing functionalities that already exist in other solutions. Additionally, businesses will need to establish and maintain an in-house IT department or rely on outsourced IT services to support the ongoing development and maintenance of the software.

Licensing offers a balanced approach, combining the quick deployment characteristic of SaaS with the control typical of custom development. This model provides a perpetual source code license, ensuring no vendor lock-in and granting businesses the flexibility to modify the software as needed. Additionally, at Solidstudio, with license we offer optional ongoing support, helping maintain and update the software over time. However, there is an initial licensing fee to consider, although this fee is significantly lower than the costs associated with developing custom software from scratch or even some SaaS solutions in the long run.


Licensing costs are generally much lower than standard SaaS pricing components. To illustrate this, consider a basic example of a Charge Point Operator managing 2,000 EVSEs using a SaaS provider. The SaaS provider charges a €20,000 onboarding fee and €7.5 per EVSE per month. Over a three-year period, the total operational cost for accessing the tool exceeds half a million euros.

In contrast, consider the licensing model. An exemplary license fee might be €300,000, depending on the software's scope. This includes support and maintenance for both the software and infrastructure. The break-even point for a CPO managing 2,000 EVSEs is just after two years. Beyond this point, significant savings accrue, and the longer the timeframe, the greater the savings.

Not to mention, this example does not factor in the dynamics of increasing EVSEs, in which case, the SaaS costs would skyrocket even higher. It is clear that to meet future goals, such as those set for 2030 or 2035, infrastructure will need to expand significantly. As the number of EVSEs under management grows, the break-even point will arrive sooner, and the operational cost savings will become even more substantial.

See the recording from our recent webinar taking on the financial aspects of obtaining EV charging software.

WEBINAR: The Economics of Software in eMobility: Financial Strategies & Optimal ROI

Continuing with the topic of software testing, this time we unpack e2e tests in EV charging.

In our recent article, we have touched upon the topic of penetration testing - a crucial procedure in ensuring the cybersecurity aspects behind software solutions. We’re now continuing the testing saga by bringing closer another software examining type.


Integration & e2e testing: what are they?

Integration and end-to-end (E2E) testing are critical proceedings of the software development lifecycle, essential for ensuring that different parts of a system work together seamlessly and the system as a whole operates as intended. These testing methodologies stand out for their ability to detect issues that unit tests might overlook, providing a holistic view of the system's performance and functionality.

Integration testing focuses on the interactions between different modules or services in a system, ensuring that they communicate and function together correctly. This type of testing is crucial because it helps to identify problems in the interactions between integrated components or systems that might not be apparent when these components are tested in isolation.

End-to-end testing takes a broader approach, encompassing the entire application and its environment. This testing method simulates real-world scenarios, checking not only the application's internal functioning but also its integration with external interfaces and networks, thus verifying its overall behavior from start to finish.

These testing processes are integral parts of the digital ecosystem, positioned between unit testing, which examines individual components in isolation, and system testing, which evaluates the complete and fully integrated software product. Integration and E2E testing serve as the critical links in the quality assurance chain, ensuring that the software components not only work well independently but also operate in harmony within the total system environment.

Visualizing these testing layers in the digital ecosystem, imagine a multi-layered architecture: at the base, we have unit testing, which lays the foundation by verifying individual components. Building on this, integration testing forms the middle layer, ensuring these components interact correctly. At the top, E2E testing covers the entire system, offering a comprehensive validation of its functionality and performance in real-world scenarios. This hierarchical structure reinforces the importance of each testing phase, culminating in a robust and reliable software product that meets user expectations and performs effectively in the operational environment.

End-to-end testing for EV charging software

As the eMobility industry strives to provide seamless and efficient services, the complexity of integrating multiple vendors, external partners, and open protocols becomes evident. This intricate network of interactions necessitates a rigorous and structured testing approach to ensure that all parts and components of the charging ecosystem function in unison, providing a reliable and user-friendly experience.

The diversity of vendors, partners, and protocol versions in the eMobility sector adds layers of complexity to the development and deployment of charging software. Each component, from the physical charging stations to the backend systems, plays a crucial role in the charging process, and any disruption in this chain can lead to subpar service and a negative user experience. Therefore, E2E testing becomes indispensable, acting as the critical safeguard that validates the entire operational flow of the EV charging software. It ensures that every interaction, whether it's between the charging stations and the payment systems or the user interface and the network operations center, is thoroughly tested and proven to work harmoniously.

Now let’s take a look at the detailed list of areas that can be covered by e2e testing.

E2E testing is instrumental in ensuring that the various integrations within the EV charging software ecosystem are stable and reliable. Given the rapid evolution of the eMobility sector, with new features and components being added frequently, E2E testing provides the necessary confidence to developers and stakeholders. It verifies that new changes integrate well with existing systems, ensuring that the entire ecosystem can adapt and function correctly, even as it grows and evolves.

Documentation of Behavior and Expectations

E2E tests serve as a valuable tool for documenting the expected behavior of the system, creating a shared understanding between engineering and business teams. This documentation helps in clarifying what the system is supposed to do, facilitating easier communication of technical and business requirements and ensuring that the software behaves as intended in various scenarios.

Simulation of Edge Cases and Rare Scenarios

E2E testing allows for the simulation of edge cases and rare scenarios, such as faults in charging stations or payment processing errors, which are crucial for assessing the system's reliability. These scenarios, though infrequent in the real world, can significantly impact the user experience and operational stability if not handled properly. E2E testing ensures that the system can gracefully manage such exceptions.

Quick Defect Identification and Cost Reduction

By simulating the full range of system operations, E2E testing helps in identifying and rectifying defects early in the development cycle. This early detection leads to quicker fixes, reducing the time and cost associated with later-stage troubleshooting. It also mitigates the risk of major failures post-deployment, thereby enhancing the overall quality of the software.

Compliance with Regulations and Standards

E2E testing plays a crucial role in ensuring that the EV charging software complies with industry regulations and standards, such as Eichrecht for legal metrology and open protocols like OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol) and OCPI (Open Charge Point Interface). These tests verify that the software meets the required legal and technical specifications, ensuring that the system is trustworthy and interoperable with other components and services in the eMobility ecosystem.

E2E testing is essential for verifying that the software solution is scalable and capable of handling increased loads, such as a growing number of connected charging stations. Through automated testing, it's possible to assess whether the system can maintain its performance levels and user experience quality even as the demand and operational load increase, ensuring the software's long-term viability and efficiency.

In this context, E2E testing transcends being merely a technical procedure; it becomes the linchpin for ensuring customer satisfaction and operational success in the eMobility industry. By emulating real-world scenarios and testing the complete charging process from start to finish, E2E testing helps identify and rectify potential issues before they affect the end user, thereby underpinning every successful go-live with a robust and validated system. This systematic and comprehensive testing approach is not just about ensuring technical compatibility; it's about guaranteeing a seamless and enjoyable charging experience for the EV driver, which is the ultimate goal of all eMobility industry players.

Continuing with the topic of software testing, this time we break down e2e tests in the context of EV charging.

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