The partnership is intended to increase the affordability of EVs and maximise their value for a decarbonised energy system. The service builds on Kaluza’s wealth of global smart charging expertise following deployments in North America, Europe, and Australia.
Through this new service, Kaluza’s software will directly connect with MMC’s all-new Outlander (PHEV model) via telematics, removing the need for separate smart charging hardware. Kaluza will optimise charging to help customers charge at times of low demand to reduce their EV costs and carbon emissions through a seamless digital experience. Vehicle owners will be able to schedule their charging through their mobile app so that their vehicle is always ready to drive when needed and they can easily track their charging savings.
The service is part of an agreement between MMC, Kaluza and Mitsubishi Corporation which brings together major transport and energy players. This cross-industry collaboration prioritises the development of customer-centric services, ensuring ease-of-use and clear financial rewards to help accelerate the adoption of EVs. Together, the partners will demonstrate the power of smart charging at scale and its potential to drive Japan’s progress towards becoming a carbon neutral society.
“By turning electric vehicles into ‘batteries on wheels’ countries can build smarter, greener energy systems, centred around the customer,” said Neel Gulhar, CMO and head of flex at Kaluza.
“The expansion of EVs and renewable energy is making a large impact on power grids and the need for supply and demand adjustment is increasing,” commented Kazuaki Iwamoto, corporate officer and division GM of the mobility business at MMC.
“MMC is tackling this issue by working with Kaluza to develop smart charging services that optimise EV charging and help stabilise power grids in Japan. Furthermore, MMC is looking forward to developing various advanced services using connected technologies like large-capacity EV batteries as "balancing energy" and contributing to the realisation of a carbon-neutral society.”
