What Is Smart EV Charging?
What is Smart EV Charging?
As the global push towards cleaner transportation continues to gather pace, more people are making the switch from petrol and diesel cars to electric vehicles (EVs).
In the UK alone, data from ZapMap
shows that 30.3% of new vehicles registered in January 2025 were electric or plug-in hybrids.
This increased adoption of EVs, fuelled in part by the UK government’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate,
will inevitably see a rise in demand for electricity. Regulations
now require all new EV chargers sold, for home or public charging stations, to have smart EV charging functionalities.
The advanced technology in smart chargers can facilitate communication between your electric vehicle, the charging station, and the energy grid. The purpose is to optimise the charging process in the most convenient, economical and energy-efficient way possible.
In this guide, we’ll explore what smart charging is, how it works, and the key benefits it offers EV drivers.
How Does Smart Charging Work?
Smart charging systems work by communicating with your electric vehicle, the charging station, and the energy grid in real time– often via wireless networks such as Wi-Fi, 3G, 4G, or 5G. Unlike traditional chargers, they use advanced algorithms to manage the charging process based on your personal preferences. This could be your desired charge level or the time you want your car fully charged.
Once you input these settings, the smart charger can monitor energy demand and adjust charging rates based on several factors, such as grid conditions and electricity pricing. This intelligent control means you can schedule your EV to charge during off-peak hours when rates are lower. Many smart chargers can also be programmed to integrate with renewable energy systems, like solar or wind power. By storing any excess renewable energy for use later, it can further reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Smart chargers are often controlled remotely through a smartphone app. This allows you to monitor your charging status, adjust schedules, and receive notifications.
AC vs. DC Charging: What’s the Difference?
Electric vehicles
can be charged using either alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC),
with each serving different needs:
• AC Charging: Most home chargers
and many public charging stations
use alternating current (AC). These chargers are ideal for overnight or long-duration charging sessions and can be integrated into smart home systems, allowing you to manage charging schedules efficiently.
• DC Charging: Direct current (DC) fast chargers deliver power directly to the battery at a much higher rate, making them ideal for rapid charging on longer journeys. DC chargers are commonly found in public charging networks and use smart charging technology to adjust power delivery based on grid demand, ensuring both speed and efficiency.
Benefits of Smart EV Charging
• Lower Costs: Charging during off-peak hours means you can benefit from lower electricity rates and reduce your overall charging expenses.
• Grid Stability: Smart chargers adjust power delivery in response to grid demand, charging your battery while preventing overloads and providing a stable energy supply.
• More Control and Convenience: Manage your charging sessions remotely via a smartphone app, allowing you to start, stop, or schedule charging at any time. Real-time updates keep you informed of your vehicle’s charging stats.
• Eco-Friendly Charging: Integrate your smart charger with renewable energy sources like solar or wind power to lower your carbon footprint. Some stations also support the grid by modulating energy consumption during peak demand.
Do You Need a Smart Meter for EV Charging?
A smart meter is not required for EV charging, but it can improve your overall charging experience. By providing real-time data on your energy consumption, a smart meter makes it easier to track costs, optimise charging schedules, and identify the most efficient times to charge your EV.
A Future with Smart EV Charging
As the adoption of electric vehicles continues to grow, smart charging technology will play a crucial role in shaping the future of sustainable mobility.
Public smart charging stations are increasingly being deployed in urban centres and at motorway services. This trend reflects a strategic shift toward building an extensive charging infrastructure that meets the needs of a growing EV community. Data from ZapMap
shows the number has grown from 28,460 in 2021 to more than 73,000 by the end of 2024, indicating a robust investment in public charging facilities. Kia Charge,
alone, provides access to 42,200 of these charging points across the UK.
Smart charging technology makes EV ownership more cost-effective, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly. By streamlining energy use and offering real-time management, smart chargers are not only reducing costs but also helping to balance grid demand - a vital factor in supporting a greener transport network.
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Images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be to full UK specification. Features shown are not standard across the Kia model range and availability will vary dependant on model. For further details please refer to the individual model specification sheets.
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Product availability varies by models. To find out which products are available for your vehicle, please contact your Kia dealer.
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