Controlling who can use a charger — and billing each session accurately — matters just as much as the technical delivery of energy itself, especially in shared or public installations.
Authentication via RFID or NFC card is the most widespread method: the user taps a card or their phone against the reader, the system validates their permissions, and the session starts. It is simple, fast, and compatible with corporate fleet cards, which makes it especially popular in business environments.
Plug & Charge goes a step further: the vehicle itself identifies automatically to the charger through built-in digital certificates (under the ISO 15118 standard), with no card or app required. The user simply plugs in the cable, and the session starts and is billed automatically.
For an operator, choosing between the two methods comes down to the level of control needed: RFID and NFC offer robust access management that is easy to implement today, while Plug & Charge delivers the best user experience, but requires both the vehicle and the charger to fully support the ISO 15118 standard.