Calls for standardization in EV technology at Geneva auto show

Automakers at the recent Geneva Auto show spoke of a need for standardization in electric car technology, specifically the need for a common standard for plugs. Vice President of Toyota Motor Corp.’s European operations, Michel Gardel, said “Standardization and harmonization is a big critical issue in Europe, because for now if we travel from Denmark to Italy you have to change your plug four times.” Auto executives said lack of standardization will become more of a problem as electric cars sell in larger numbers, particularly as drivers use the cars for longer distances and cross-border travel. Some automakers downplayed the problem, however, saying drivers only use electric vehicles (EV) for driving short distances and commuting. China is one country that is expected to have one standard in the electric car market. This could help grow the EV market in that country. Manufacturers of hybrid vehicles such as Takeshi Uchiyamada, head of R&D at Toyota point out that, “With plug-in hybrid cars, you don’t have that problem because when you run out of electricity, the gasoline engine will cut in.” (March 2, 2011)