Q&A with CharIN North America President: It’s all about interoperability

Interoperability—the ability of products from different manufacturers to work together—is one of the most fundamental enablers of our technological society. From low-tech tools such as screwdrivers and wrenches to digital constructs like computer operating systems, interoperability is critical, and the lack of it is often a roadblock to the adoption of new technologies.

Open in lightbox

Open in lightbox

Open in lightbox

Open in lightbox

As EVs proliferate, and more vehicle segments electrify, the need for interoperability of charging infrastructure is coming into sharp focus, and that’s what the Charging Interface Initiative, aka CharIN, is all about.

After the proposal for the Combined Charging System (CCS) was published in Germany in 2011, a group of automakers and suppliers formed CharIN to promote the adoption of CCS. Today, the organization has grown to include over 230 members around the world, and is working to establish ever-more-powerful charging standards. The organization’s latest project is the Megawatt Charging System (MCS), a standard under development for large battery-electric vehicles, which will enable charging at power levels of up to 4.5 megawatts (3,000 amps at 1,500 volts).

CharIN recently decided to establish a North American division, in order to more effectively address local infrastructure issues. Oleg Logvinov, co-founder, President and CEO of charging technology startup IoTecha, was chosen as the new President of CharIN North America. Charged had a chat with Mr. Logvinov to learn more about CharIN’s ongoing work, and to hear some of his insights on the newest trends in charging.