Introduction

The accelerating adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) within commercial and public fleets presents a transformative opportunity for sustainable operations, yet it also introduces complex challenges related to energy management, operational efficiency, and grid integration. Unmanaged charging of a large EV fleet can lead to exorbitant electricity costs due to peak demand charges, strain on local grid infrastructure, and potential vehicle downtime if vehicles are not charged optimally for their next shift. Smart charging infrastructure provides the crucial solution to these challenges by leveraging intelligent software and hardware to dynamically manage charging schedules, optimize energy consumption, and ensure vehicle readiness while minimizing operational expenses and grid impact. This sophisticated approach moves beyond basic plug-and-charge, enabling fleet operators to unlock significant cost savings, enhance reliability, and maximize the environmental benefits of their electrified fleets. Without proficiency in designing and implementing Smart Charging Infrastructure for EV Fleets, organizations risk inefficient operations, financial penalties, and a failure to fully capitalize on their EV investments, underscoring the vital need for specialized training in this cutting-edge domain. This comprehensive training course focuses on equipping professionals with the expertise to master Smart Charging Infrastructure for EV Fleets.

This training course is meticulously designed to empower fleet managers, electrical engineers, energy managers, logistics professionals, infrastructure developers, and IT specialists with the theoretical understanding and practical skills necessary to effectively plan, deploy, and manage Smart Charging Infrastructure for EV Fleets. Participants will gain hands-on experience in assessing fleet charging needs, selecting appropriate charging hardware and software, implementing intelligent load management strategies, integrating with renewable energy sources, and leveraging data analytics for continuous optimization. The course will delve into topics such as understanding fleet duty cycles, utilizing telematics data for charging optimization, designing depot and en-route charging solutions, implementing Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) applications, navigating communication protocols (e.g., OCPP), and developing robust cybersecurity measures for interconnected charging systems. By mastering the principles and practical application of Smart Charging Infrastructure for EV Fleets, participants will be prepared to enhance operational efficiency, reduce energy costs, ensure fleet uptime, and contribute significantly to the successful and sustainable electrification of commercial and public transportation.

Duration: 10 Days

Target Audience

• Fleet Managers (Commercial, Public, Logistics)
• Electrical Engineers (Distribution, Power Systems)
• Energy Managers and Analysts
• IT and Cybersecurity Professionals (Fleet/Energy focus)
• Logistics and Operations Managers
• Infrastructure Planners and Developers
• Sustainability and Environmental Officers
• Project Managers (EV Fleet Deployment)
• Automotive and EV OEM representatives (Fleet Sales/Support)
• Consultants in Transportation and Energy

Objectives

• Understand the fundamental concepts of EV fleet electrification and its unique challenges.
• Learn about the various types of EV chargers and their suitability for fleet applications.
• Acquire skills in assessing EV fleet charging requirements based on operational data.
• Comprehend techniques for designing and sizing smart charging infrastructure for depots and routes.
• Explore strategies for implementing intelligent load management to minimize costs and grid impact.
• Understand the importance of communication protocols (e.g., OCPP) for smart charging.
• Gain insights into Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) and Vehicle-to-Fleet (V2F) applications for energy optimization.
• Develop a practical understanding of integrating renewable energy sources with fleet charging.
• Learn about data analytics and software platforms for monitoring and optimizing fleet charging.
• Master cybersecurity best practices for interconnected charging systems.
• Acquire skills in developing business cases and financial models for smart charging investments.
• Understand the application of telematics and fleet management systems for charging optimization.
• Explore regulatory frameworks and utility tariffs affecting fleet charging.
• Develop proficiency in troubleshooting and maintaining smart charging infrastructure.
• Prepare to strategically plan and implement efficient, cost-effective smart charging solutions for EV fleets.

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to EV Fleet Electrification and Challenges

• Global trends in fleet electrification and its drivers.
• Benefits of electrifying fleets: cost savings, emissions reduction, branding.
• Unique challenges of EV fleet charging: high power demand, charging coordination, downtime.
• Overview of different EV fleet types: last-mile delivery, public transit, heavy-duty.
• The role of smart charging in overcoming fleet electrification hurdles.

Module 2: EV Fleet Vehicles and Battery Technologies

• Types of Electric Vehicles for fleets: BEV, PHEV, FCEV for various applications.
• Understanding battery chemistry, capacity, and charging characteristics specific to fleet use.
• Battery thermal management systems and their importance for fleet longevity.
• Impact of duty cycles and driving patterns on battery degradation and charging needs.
• Calculating daily energy consumption for various fleet vehicles.

Module 3: EV Charging Hardware for Fleets

• Overview of charging levels: AC Level 2, DC Fast Charging (DCFC), Megawatt Charging System (MCS).
• Selecting appropriate charger power levels and connector types for different fleet vehicles.
• Understanding charger components and safety features.
• Depot charging vs. en-route/public charging solutions.
• Site-specific considerations for charger installation (space, power availability).

Module 4: Fundamentals of Smart Charging for Fleets

• Definition of smart charging: controlled, optimized, data-driven.
• Key objectives of smart charging: cost reduction, grid stability, vehicle readiness.
• Core capabilities: load balancing, demand response, time-of-use (TOU) optimization.
• Manual vs. automated smart charging strategies.
• Overview of smart charging software platforms.

Module 5: Intelligent Load Management Strategies

• Peak shaving and demand charge avoidance.
• Dynamic load balancing across multiple chargers.
• Prioritizing vehicle charging based on operational schedules and State of Charge (SoC).
• Implementing charging windows and exclusion periods.
• Integration with building energy management systems (BEMS).

Module 6: Communication Protocols and Interoperability

• Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) as the industry standard.
• Understanding OCPP functions: charge point control, status monitoring, firmware updates.
• ISO 15118 (Plug & Charge) for enhanced user experience and V2G.
• Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI) for roaming between networks.
• Ensuring interoperability between hardware, software, and vehicles.

Module 7: Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) and Vehicle-to-Fleet (V2F)

• Principles and benefits of bidirectional charging (V2G, V2B, V2H).
• Technical requirements for V2G-enabled vehicles and chargers.
• Applications of V2G for fleets: ancillary services, peak shaving, backup power.
• Exploring Vehicle-to-Fleet (V2F) for internal energy sharing.
• Regulatory and market considerations for V2G deployment.

Module 8: Integrating Renewable Energy with Fleet Charging

• Siting and sizing solar PV and battery energy storage systems (BESS) at depots.
• Optimizing charging schedules to maximize renewable self-consumption.
• Microgrid concepts for resilient and sustainable fleet operations.
• Utilizing demand-side flexibility to integrate more renewables.
• Case studies of renewable-powered fleet charging hubs.

Module 9: Data Analytics and Optimization Software

• Key performance indicators (KPIs) for EV fleet charging.
• Collecting and analyzing charging data: energy consumption, charging duration, costs.
• Using fleet telematics data for predictive charging needs.
• Reporting and visualization tools for fleet managers.
• Leveraging AI and machine learning for predictive optimization.

Module 10: Electrical Infrastructure Upgrades for Fleets

• Assessing existing electrical service capacity at depots.
• Designing necessary upgrades: transformers, switchgear, feeders.
• Understanding utility interconnection processes and requirements.
• Power quality considerations: harmonics, power factor correction.
• Cost estimation for electrical infrastructure modifications.

Module 11: Cybersecurity for Smart Charging Infrastructure

• Identifying cybersecurity threats to networked charging systems.
• Best practices for securing charging hardware and software.
• Data privacy considerations for fleet and driver information.
• Implementing authentication, authorization, and encryption.
• Incident response planning for cybersecurity breaches.

Module 12: Business Models and Financial Planning for Fleet Charging

• Calculating Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for EV fleets with smart charging.
• Understanding electricity tariffs, demand charges, and time-of-use rates.
• Exploring incentives, grants, and financing options for smart charging infrastructure.
• Developing a compelling business case for smart charging investment.
• Operational cost savings analysis.

Module 13: Operations and Maintenance of Smart Charging Systems

• Routine maintenance procedures for chargers and software.
• Remote monitoring and diagnostics of charging infrastructure.
• Troubleshooting common issues and fault resolution.
• Service Level Agreements (SLAs) for charging network uptime.
• Ensuring driver training and support for optimal use.

Module 14: Policy, Regulations, and Standards

• Local and national regulations impacting EV fleet charging.
• Building codes and permitting requirements for charging station installation.
• Grid codes and utility interconnection standards.
• Safety standards for EV charging equipment and installations.
• Emerging policies supporting smart charging and V2G.

Module 15: Advanced Case Studies and Future Trends

• Real-world examples of successful smart charging deployments for diverse fleets.
• The role of autonomous vehicles and robotic charging.
• Megawatt Charging System (MCS) for heavy-duty electrification.
• Peer-to-peer energy trading with fleet EVs.
• The evolving landscape of fleet electrification and smart energy management.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.