Pionix, AST-X, and Solectrix have partnered to offer custom EV charge controllers based on the Pionix EVerest open-source stack. The solution utilizes the ChargeBridge module, which manages low-level charging logic on a microcontroller while separating it from the Linux-based EVerest system that handles OCPP, ISO 15118, and smart charging protocols.
The division of labor assigns Pionix to provide the EVerest stack, ChargeBridge, reference designs, and cloud services for security and OTA updates. AST-X manages hardware engineering, PCB design, and manufacturing, while Solectrix focuses on embedded software, Linux development, and system integration.
The development process is structured to reach a functional prototype in 10 weeks, consisting of a two-week definition phase and eight weeks of prototyping. Following this, the timeline includes eight weeks for integration and testing, plus 10 weeks for industrialization before moving to series production.
By integrating charging logic and interfaces onto a single PCB, the companies aim to reduce internal wiring and assembly complexity. This approach intends to lower manufacturing costs and minimize connection points. Furthermore, the system supports OTA updates to implement new features and standards without requiring hardware redesigns.
