Chargers with displays: From “feature” to requirement for manufacturers and CPOs

Charging points come in many forms: compact or XL, square or rectangular, mounted on a pedestal or wall-embedded.

However, there is one element that can no longer be left out of the design if performance and differentiation are to be achieved: digital signage.

In high-traffic hubs, stations equipped with high-brightness displays not only supply energy, but also provide a robust platform for dynamic content and HMI functionality. This enhances the user experience while maintaining the core charging function.

The integration of robust displays enables charging stations to serve as platforms for infotainment and operator-managed content.Moreover, the inclusion of dynamic content enriches customer interaction.

Depending on the operator’s chosen system, stations can be equipped with media players and operating systems to display real-time information that goes beyond the charging process: routes to the next point, local information, nearby retail promotions or messages from the charge point operator (CPO).

When these systems are linked with vehicle and user data, it can even become possible to deliver contextual advertising and messages.

This increases the commercial value of the site and, when managed properly, enhances the driver’s experience with relevant, useful and non-intrusive information.

Diana Nanu, Head of Products & Markets – Mobility at DATA MODUL AG, tells Mobility Portal that “the combination of HMI with digital signage is becoming an increasingly important trend.”

While CPOs must retain full control over content, technology providers such as DATA MODUL supply robust, high-brightness displays that make these solutions technically reliable and suitable even for demanding outdoor environments.

The company supports the rollout of smart charging with state-of-the-art display and HMI technology, from component selection and design throughout to system integration consulting and lifecycle support.. 

Their approach includes multiple screen formats, 24/7 reliability and long-term service, adapted to both industrial and outdoor settings.

What do manufacturers look for when defining the ideal display solution?

According to the representative from DATA MODUL, recent projects have highlighted recurring requirements: robustness, high brightness, precise touch performance and flexible integration options.

In addition, manufacturers demand weather resistance, ease of maintenance and long-term reliability, particularly for chargers deployed in outdoor environments.

Displays developed by DATA MODUL are engineered to withstand humidity, dust, UV exposure and extreme temperatures, operating reliably within a wide temperature range up to -30 to +80 °C.

This resilience is achieved by the use of optical bonding, integration of laminated safety glasses with high IK ratings and mechanical enclosures for high IP ratings.

Although not always specified at the outset, the company recommends optical and structural bonding methods to ensure stable performance and enhanced durability under adverse environmental conditions.

How does optical bonding ensure resilience?

Touch display HMIs or non-touch display solutions for outdoor applications include a protective cover glass. Optical bonding eliminates the airgap between the glass, touch sensor and display, thereby enabling precise touch functionality and best viewing experience. 

Customised glass solutions can be used to meet specific IK impact resistance standards (e.g. IK07 to IK10), protecting the display against vandalism. For maximum protection, laminated safety glass—consisting of two layers of glass bonded together—acts like armour.

Optical bonding ensures that even through several millimetres of glass  thickness, the touch functionality remains precise. This is especially relevant for projected capacitive touch sensors (PCAP), which use a transparent conductive material, such as indium tin oxide (ITO), applied to a base material like glass or PET film. When a finger touches the screen, the resulting change in the capacitive field is detected by the touch controller, accurately identifying the point of contact.

PCAP technology designed from DATA MODUL allows for accurate input even through cover glass up to ten millimetres thick—and while wearing gloves.

It can also detect common disruptions such as water on the screen.

However, not all PCAP sensors are the same. Depending on the requirements—such as screen size, installation environment, or usage conditions—different sensor technologies may be more appropriate.

DATA MODUL offers a wide range of PCAP variants and ensures that the right optical bonding method is selected to match each sensor type and application.

Additionally, optical bonding of displays not only enhances optical performance, but it also increases impact resistance and reduces sensitivity to moisture and contaminants. Therefore a properly bonded display can remain stable and fully functional for several years, even beyond the typical product lifetime.

This allows for optimal performance, even in challenging outdoor conditions or when using advanced display formats such as large or curved screens.

Integrating infotainment without compromising design

Incorporating infotainment systems into stations that were originally conceived solely for energy supply presents several challenges.

“These include balancing design with robustness and integration, while ensuring reliability under extreme conditions such as UV exposure, humidity, vandalism and temperature fluctuations,” explains Diana Nanu.

“Continuous operation and compatibility with the existing infrastructure are also key factors,” she adds.

Charger manufacturers take all these considerations into account when deciding which type of display to incorporate into their charger models.

When did charging become a smart point of contact?

Charging stations have gradually evolved: from being simple energy delivery points to becoming intelligent, multifunctional user interfaces.

At first, alternating current (AC) chargers in homes or public spaces operated without interactive screens; they were essentially plugs.

Later, in public environments, units with integrated connectivity functions began to appear.

“Today, stations have consolidated as advanced HMI systems and high-value points of interaction,” the executive concludes.

Data Modul Day: “Make your EV station reliable, visible, and durable with HMI solutions”

On 5 November, Data Modul will host a web seminar on HMI solutions for EV charging stations — a must-attend event for manufacturers seeking to innovate and optimise their products.

The event will be broadcast live in English on the Strategic Energy Corp YouTube channel.

Registration is free and open to anyone interested in electric mobility and the latest technological trends in the sector.

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