Electrification
How Renault Mobilize redefines the energy landscape
In the fast-paced world of electric vehicle (EV) technology, one innovation has just arrived, changing not only the way we power our cars but also how we manage and consume energy on a larger scale. At the forefront of this transformative innovation are ST and technology provider IoTecha, whose collaboration inside the Software République open innovation consortium has given birth to the Renault Group Mobilize-branded PowerBox®—a charging station that transcends the traditional confines of car charging. What makes it so disruptive? The PowerBox offers intelligent, secure (and for the first time) bidirectional charging capabilities.
Challenge
- Go beyond simple car charging by actively participating to the energy landscape
- Create an intelligent, secure and bidirectional charging station
- Ensure compatibility with the grid
Solution
- Bring together diverse technological partners and expertise through the Software République open innovation consortium
- Leverage ST’s hardware components to ensure connectivity, security, and bidirectional efficiency
- Collaborate with IoTecha, an EV charging technology provider and ST Authorized Partner, for the PowerBox engineering development
Impact
- Industry-first advanced bidirectional EV charging station
- Maximize energy efficiency on a larger scale
- Meet the global demand for energy, even in peak period
Energy efficiency on a grand scale
The Mobilize PowerBox epitomizes the concept of energy efficiency. This station is designed to do more than merely charge an EV. The beauty of the PowerBox? Its ability to become an active participant in the energy ecosystem. Think of it as a smart management system in a small and stylish 45 x 27 cm box. The station intelligently manages the flow of electricity, charging vehicles during off-peak hours when the demand is low, and the supply of renewable energy is abundant.
“
The Mobilize Powerbox is a game changer that goes beyond automotive. It turns every car into a source of energy and savings.
”
Ziad Dagher, Team Leader, Mobilize, Renault Group
Why two is better than one
But the true innovation lies in its ability to reverse the flow—sending energy back to the grid during peak demand. This not only alleviates the strain on our power infrastructure but also ensures that the energy stored in EVs can be used to stabilize the grid, turning a fleet of cars into a vast, distributed battery system. As a prime example, 40,000 vehicles equipped with bidirectional converters are equivalent to a medium-sized gas power station during peak demand periods.
“
ST's chips have propelled us beyond mere car charging. Our unique collaboration has empowered automakers like Renault Group to actively reshape the global energy landscape.
”
Laurence Bechon, Chief Operational Officer, Software République
The Renault Mobilize PowerBox journey
The journey to realize such an ambitious project took the collective effort of seven partners, led by the Software République open innovation consortium. IoTecha, a renowned EV charging expert and an ST Authorized Partner, led the development of the PowerBox’s electronic architecture and bidirectional charging implementation. The PowerBox builds on IoTecha’s field-proven charging platform, which leverages the STM32MP1 to enhance performance, security, and seamless grid integration. This platform was made possible through close collaboration with ST’s team, resulting in a robust, intelligent charging solution designed for seamless grid integration.
“
ST not only provides chips but also help us bring them to life in an overall ecosystem.
”
Benjamin Nenning, Project Director, Software République.
From chip selection to design perfection
Creating a bidirectional charger involved solving a host of complex technical challenges. These included ensuring flawless communication between EVs and charging stations, secure data transmission in line with smart grid standards, and, crucially, data security, and product safety. To build the Powerbox, IoTecha integrated the ST2100 broadband powerline communication for secure, efficient communication between the vehicle and the charging station. Additionally, the STM32MP1 was selected to serve as the ‘brain’ of the system. This microprocessor provides the processing power, security, and real-time control needed for bidirectional power charging. IoTecha leveraged its platform and, with ST’s support, accelerated the development of a scalable, high-performance charging solution. On the security front, the Powerbox is equipped with advanced features achieved through a Trusted Platform Module and secure elements from ST to securely manage and store data in the best possible manner.
“
The STM32MP1 gives us the performance and security we need, and with ST’s support, we were able to move fast and bring this innovative solution to life in an incredibly short time.
”
Oleg Logvinov, CEO, IoTecha
