Continental develops networked system for Better Place EV services platform

23 Sep 2009

Automotive supplier Continental has been awarded a contract by EV services provider, Better Place to develop networked systems for the Better Place electric vehicle (EV) services platform.

Supplying Better Place with the first systems in Q4 for initial tests with EVs in Israel and Denmark, Continental enables the Better Place in-car software to advise EV drivers where and when to charge, allows car and driver to communicate with the Better Place network, and provides continuously updated, personal energy mapping for drivers.

The multimedia and telematics unit in EVs powered by Better Place is the central information system for the driver as well as the main interface between drivers and the Better Place network. Drivers receive precise information about battery charge status and recharge options from the head unit.

Maintaining the infrastructure (charge spots and automated battery switch stations), the EV services platform provides aggregated data to optimise charging and manage energy at scale. For trips longer than the single charge range of the battery, the head unit directs the driver to a battery switch station en route.

The driver also will have access to media, information and support services through the head unit.

Keeping is constantly in contact with the Better Place control centre via the head unit's communication interfaces (WLAN and mobile network), the car's system is ensured to be up to date with system updates and data, transmitted through different interfaces such as a secure Internet connection.