Once the imagination of science fiction writers, artificial intelligence (AI) has quickly become the hottest topic in tech. From finance to healthcare, it's disrupting industries and shortcutting processes to revolutionize how we work and live.

One of those areas being transformed is electric vehicle (EV) charging. From forecasting the best places for future EV charging stations to sophisticated predictive analysis, AI is taking EV charging up a gear. Let's look at some of the ways AI will impact EV charging:

Predictive analysis

Predictive analysis involves using data, statistical algorithms and machine learning techniques to identify the likelihood of future outcomes based on historical data. So it can be incredibly useful in managing EV charging.

AI can analyze patterns in usage data to predict when an EV's battery will run low and where the vehicle might be at that time. This helps in planning efficient routes to charging stations and reducing the risk of running out of power. This can be particularly useful for commercial EV fleets, helping to minimize downtime and maximize operational efficiency.

When paired with an API like HERE EV Routing, destinations can be reached without running out of energy, while still optimizing the overall travel and charging time.

Read more — EVs in range: how far can an electric car go on a single charge?

Optimal charging station placement

AI can use map data on traffic patterns, congestion, population density and current charging station locations to suggest optimal places for setting up new EV charging stations, ensuring better coverage and convenience for EV owners.

For example, EV charging stations might be needed along busy commuting routes, near major highways, or in areas with high concentrations of EVs. High-density residential and commercial areas are likely to have a higher demand for EV charging stations. AI can analyze demographic data and population density maps to pinpoint these areas.

On a larger scale, predictive analysis can assist city planners and utility companies in determining where additional EV charging infrastructure will be needed in the future, based on trends in EV sales, population growth and urban development.

Autonomous charging

In the future, we could see self-driving EVs charging themselves thanks to AI. The AI system would determine when the battery is running low and the car could drive itself to the nearest available EV charging station and autonomously handle the charging process, reducing inconvenience for owners.

Once the vehicle is charged, it could return to its duty (whether that's going back to a parking spot or resuming its journey) all by itself.

Dynamic pricing models

AI can facilitate dynamic pricing models for EV charging, adjusting prices based on demand, time of day and available grid capacity. This could encourage users to charge their vehicles during off-peak times, balancing the load on the power grid.

When combined with powerful location technology, AI has the potential to make EV charging more efficient, cost-effective and user-friendly, further accelerating the transition towards electric mobility.