Easelink aims to standardise matrix charging technology

The group, which calls itself the Matrix Charging Interest Group (MCIG), is spearheading an industry-wide collaboration to standardise Matrix Charging technology. Developed by Easelink, the system involves parking a vehicle over a floor-mounted charging pad, with a retrofitted charging plate on the vehicle’s underbody—akin to inductive charging. However, instead of wireless power transfer (which incurs inherent energy losses), a connector on the vehicle lowers onto the floor plate, establishing a conductive connection with significantly reduced losses.

The MCIG is fully committed to the concept and positions itself as a complementary platform to the ongoing standardisation efforts led by ISO and IEC bodies. Its objective is to “optimise formal standardisation processes through industry-driven, Matrix Charging-specific coordination,” according to the partners. While this may sound like corporate rhetoric, the core message is unambiguous: one or more automakers are actively considering integrating Matrix Charging into their production models. However, to ensure seamless interoperability between all vehicles and automated charging infrastructure, these manufacturers urgently require a standardised charging interface. The MCIG now seeks to expedite this progress.

The founding members, Easelink, Audi, Nissan, and Voyah, are welcoming additional partners: “Companies with strategic interest in the development and market rollout of Matrix Charging are invited to actively participate in shaping the standard,” the group states. Hermann Stockinger, Founder and CEO of Easelink, underscores: “Our goal is to establish Matrix Charging as the global standard for automated charging. By making our essential patents available on FRAND terms, we give MCIG members maximum operational flexibility and planning security for both the use and further development of the technology.” FRAND, which stands for ‘Fair, Reasonable, And Non-Discriminatory’, ensures equitable access. Easelink is thus guiding its allies through the technology’s complexities while securing their support for its standardisation.

“MCIG follows the successful model of Special Interest Groups, such as those behind the development of Bluetooth and NFC,” explains Menno Treffers, Chair of MCIG. “Its mission is to standardize the Matrix Charging interface, oversee its cross-industry market introduction, and ensure validation, testing, and certification in line with clearly defined industry specifications.” Easelink notes that Treffers previously served as Chair of the Wireless Power Consortium and Secretary-General of the Zhaga Consortium.

For the Graz-based company, standardising its technology is now the highest priority. Earlier this year, Easelink secured €11.5 million in funding from the European Innovation Council to start standardising the Matrix Charging system. To further commercialise the solution, Easelink also plans to raise additional venture capital. In October 2024, the company announced a €1.5 million investment from Austrian energy group Verbund, primarily allocated to expanding its international presence.

Source: Info via email, easelink.com

This article was first published by Cora Werwitzke for electrive’s German edition.