Hyundai Motor Group has entered into a partnership with the South Korean Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment and the Korea Environment Corporation to expand Plug and Charge (PnC) technology across the country’s electric vehicle charging network.
The initiative aims to simplify public charging by allowing compatible electric vehicles to authenticate and begin charging automatically without requiring mobile apps, RFID cards, or additional user verification.
National Plug and Charge Certification System
According to Yonhap News Agency, Hyundai Motor Group has signed a memorandum of understanding with the government to establish a national certification system for Plug and Charge services.
As part of the agreement, Hyundai will develop the initial certification framework before transferring both the technology and certificate issuance authority to the South Korean government at no cost.
Following the transfer, the Korea Environment Corporation will use the technology to create a government-operated authentication platform that can be adopted by charging networks across the country.
The goal is to provide a standardized Plug and Charge system that can be used by multiple charging operators and electric vehicle manufacturers.
Expanding Beyond Hyundai Vehicles
The unified certification framework is intended to support a broader range of electric vehicles beyond Hyundai, including models from Kia, Genesis, and other domestic as well as imported automotive brands.
According to ChosunBiz, differences in Plug and Charge authentication methods among charging equipment manufacturers and network operators have slowed wider adoption of the technology in South Korea.
The new national certification system is expected to improve interoperability and simplify integration across the country’s EV charging ecosystem.
Technology to Be Provided Free of Charge
During the signing ceremony held on July 6, a Hyundai Motor Group representative said the company was providing the technology without charge to support broader industry adoption.
“We are transferring the technology free of charge so that any electric-vehicle customer in Korea can enjoy a more convenient charging experience.”
The official added:
“Based on Hyundai Motor Group’s technology, we will do our best so Korea can have world-class EV infrastructure.”