• Seoul is recognized for its endeavors in advancing electric vehicle adoption and charging infrastructure, along with its innovative approach to charging and payment technologies.
• Over the last three years, the number of electric vehicles has doubled compared to the previous decade, with the number of charging stations increasing sixfold.
• The city introduces the ‘Autocharge’ service, unveiled at this exhibition, by the end of this month, for easier use of electric vehicles.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) has been recognized for its endeavors in promoting the adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs), establishing charging infrastructure, and spearheading innovation in the sector at the prestigious event often referred to as the ‘Olympics of EVs.’

On Thur, Apr. 25, the SMG announced it had won ‘E-Visionary Award’ at the 37th International Electric Vehicle Symposium & Exhibition (EVS37). The city is set to become the first public institution to launch the ‘Autocharge’ service, which was showcased at the exhibition hall during the event, by the end of this month.

* The Autocharge service is an automated payment service that facilitates authentication, charging, and payment simply by plugging the charging connector into the charging socket.

The city’s concerted efforts toward becoming a ‘carbon-neutral city’ to overcome the climate crisis through the widespread adoption of EVs have yielded significant results. Over the past three years, the deployment of EVs has doubled compared to the previous decade, while the number of charging stations has increased by more than sixfold.

Presently, Seoul boasts 54,753 EV charging stations, with an average of 1.3 EVs per station. This distribution rate notably surpasses that of other major countries worldwide.

* EVs per charging station: Global average 10, Europe 13, China 8 (2023, IEA)

To maximize greenhouse gas reduction, the SMG has prioritized the replacement of commercial vehicles such as buses, taxis, and delivery trucks with electric alternatives. Additionally, to eliminate charging blind spots, the city has installed standard charging stations in residential and commercial areas and rapid charging stations at major transportation hubs.

Moreover, the SMG is dedicated to enhancing citizens’ convenience in EV charging by assigning addresses to EV charging stations, standardizing geolocation data, implementing QR code payments, and providing on-the-go charging services. With these initiatives to offer and operate various charging technologies and services, the city is on a path to boosting the demand for EVs.

Starting Mon, Apr. 22, the SMG operates the first-ever Autocharge service in public institutions. This service is expected to significantly eliminate payment inconveniences when charging EVs: Users won’t have to interact with a screen, nor will they have to tag their membership or credit cards. Once registered, they can utilize the service by simply connecting the charging connector, bypassing the necessity for membership cards, credit cards, or apps.