As investments in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure increase, artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a key tool.
For what purpose? To optimise processes, enhance user experience, and strengthen network security.
Christopher Burgahn, CEO of Fronyx, tells Mobility Portal Europe that AI is already integrating into the “refuelling” ecosystem, from load balancing management to route planning and user support.
This technology enables unprecedented personalisation, maximising the operational efficiency of charging stations and ensuring a more reliable service.
“Startups and major corporations are already adopting AI in these processes, which demonstrates its optimisation potential,” Burgahn asserts, highlighting the breadth of current and future applications.
Furthermore, advanced predictive maintenance tools capable of anticipating equipment failures through real-time data analysis are helping charge point operators to minimise station downtime.
This advantage is crucial in a sector where service continuity is key to building user trust.
And that is not all.
According to specialist Ganesh Raju from Linaro, this technology also plays an essential role in cybersecurity and in determining optimal locations for new charging stations.
Anomaly detection and automated threat response capabilities allow operators to detect and neutralise potential cyberattacks before they impact users.
This functionality protects both drivers’ personal data and the integrity of the charging network.
Which companies are already integrating AI into the sector?
Solutions like RetailSonar’s ChargePlanner are helping operators select optimal sites based on predictive data, guiding them in defining optimal configurations for slow, fast, and ultra-fast charging.
This informed decision-making allows operators to anticipate demand and maximise facility usage, a vital factor for the sustainable growth of the charging market.
Simultaneously, with AI as a key support, Charging Point Operators (CPOs) can offer a more seamless and secure user experience.
Systems like that of Juice, which employs computer vision to recognise vehicles and streamline the charging initiation, remove common user barriers, such as the need for multiple apps or cards.
This type of technology not only enhances process efficiency but also improves end-user satisfaction by reducing wait times and simplifying charging processes.
How does the European AI Act impact the industry?
The European Union’s AI Act imposes a comprehensive regulatory framework for AI adoption across various sectors, including electric mobility.
This law takes a risk-based approach, classifying AI applications according to their potential impact on fundamental rights.
In this context, Burgahn notes that while regulations aim to protect society, they place a significant burden on startups.
“To comply with all these regulations, such as the GDPR and the User Interface Act, startups must invest in resources and staff that they often do not have,” he states.
He adds: “This slows down development and creates a competitive barrier compared to less regulated markets.”
While the European regulation promotes secure and reliable AI, including transparency and cybersecurity requirements, it poses operational and financial challenges.
In particular, startups must comply with multiple regulations from the outset, limiting their ability to innovate rapidly, according to Burgahn.
This balance between regulation and innovation agility is a dilemma Europe will need to address if it wishes to remain competitive in the global electric mobility industry.
Member States have until 2 August 2025 to designate national competent authorities to oversee the application of AI system regulations and carry out market surveillance activities.
Meanwhile, the Commission’s AI Office will serve as the principal enforcement body for the AI Act at the EU level and will be responsible for enforcing regulations on general-purpose AI models.
Companies that do not comply with the regulations will face fines.
It is worth noting that most of the AI Act’s provisions will come into effect on 2 August 2026.
