Plugzmart, a startup incubated at IIT Madras, has launched “Relay,” the nation’s first multi-network EV charging platform, marking a revolutionary step for India’s EV ecosystem. The novel system makes it possible for a single charger to simultaneously connect to several Charging Management Systems (CMS), enabling real-time access through any app or network.
An Answer to the EV Charging Bottleneck in India
The lack of visibility and accessibility of chargers has been one of the main obstacles to EV adoption in India. The majority of chargers are restricted to a single network, which limits operator usage and forces EV users to juggle multiple apps. This is resolved by Plugzmart’s Relay, which uses in-house, OCPP-compliant middleware to link chargers across networks without requiring any hardware upgrades.
Key Features of Plugzmart ‘Relay’:
- Multi-network connectivity: Now, a single charger can show up on several platforms at once.
- Real-time dynamic routing: Intelligent session management ensures smooth access and precise billing.
- Boosted charger uptime & ROI: Enhances charging point operators’ (CPOs’) visibility and income.
- Vendor flexibility: Removes CMS vendor lock-in, allowing network expansion or switching at any time.
- No hardware changes needed: Works with existing OCPP chargers for fast, scalable deployment.
Promoting EV Uptake in India
“Relay is resolving one of the main issues with EV charging. We are building a truly open and interoperable ecosystem by making chargers visible and usable across various networks,” stated Raghavendar TS, Director of Plugzmart’s Software Business Unit.
The platform provides operators with a unified dashboard, enabling them to monitor all connected CMS systems and plan sessions based on user demand. Relay guarantees continuous access even in the event of a network outage, which makes it a significant advantage for EV fleets, public charging stations, and rural growth.
Why This Is Important for India’s EV Future
By 2030, it is anticipated that India’s EV charging network will have grown tenfold. The foundation of India’s EV charging infrastructure may be Plugzmart’s Relay, as government regulations encourage interoperability and public convenience. It increases charger utilisation, facilitates a quicker return on investment for operators, and improves user convenience—all of which are essential for hastening the widespread adoption of EVs.