As mobility and automotive technology continue to evolve, understanding industry terminology is essential. From advanced driver assistance systems to automated driving solutions, these terms are shaping the future of transportation and safety. This glossary provides clear definitions and resources to help you stay informed.
Glossary:
AC: Alternate Current: This type of charging is useful for charging electric vehicles at different speeds through an alternating current. Electric vehicle charging always comes out as AC. With an AC charger, the power is converted to DC by the vehicle itself. This type of charging is economical but takes longer. Learn more
ACC: Adaptive Cruise Control: Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is a type of advanced driver-assistance system for road vehicles that automatically adjusts the vehicle speed to maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead (Wikipedia). Learn more
ACN: Automatic Crash Notification: An automatic crash notification system is designed to notify emergency responders that a crash has occurred and provide its location. In most cases, when the system detects that an air bag has deployed or that there’s been a dramatic and sudden deceleration, the system automatically connects to an operator, who will then be able to communicate with the driver. The operator is also able to collect basic information from the vehicle, without driver input, to provide to emergency responders so they can easily locate the crash scene. Learn more
ADS: Automated Driving System: An automated driving system (ADS) is a vehicle system that uses hardware and software to control a vehicle without human intervention. ADSs use artificial intelligence (AI) to make decisions and control the vehicle’s movements based on real-time data from sensors and geographic information systems. Learn more
ADAS: Advanced Driver Assistance System: Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are designed to help drivers with certain driving tasks, such as staying in the lane, parking, avoiding crashes, reducing blind spots, and maintaining a safe headway. ADAS is generally designed to improve safety or reduce the workload on the driver. Learn more
AEB: Autonomous/Automatic Emergency Braking: AEB is a system that continuously monitors the road ahead and will autonomously apply the brakes if it detects any obstacle and doesn’t receive input from the driver. Learn more
ALM: Accessory Load Management: A smart-charging feature designed for an older home that can’t handle all the electrical loads being powered, such as range, air conditioner, or dryer, in addition to an EV. This utilizes an amperage device installed on the circuit box that monitors the demand and will prevent overloading from occurring when trying to charge an EV. Learn more
AV: Autonomous Vehicle: An autonomous vehicle is a vehicle capable of sensing its environment and operating without human involvement. A human passenger is not required to take control of the vehicle at any time, nor is a human passenger required to be present in the vehicle at all. An autonomous vehicle can go anywhere a traditional car goes and do everything that an experienced human driver does. Learn more
AVAS: Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems: Acoustic vehicle alerting systems (AVAS) are sound generators used in EVs to alert pedestrians, cyclists, children, and other road users that a car is present. Played via loudspeakers located beneath the bodywork, these sounds are coordinated with the vehicle’s real-time data to provide external auditory information on the vehicle’s speed, direction, and distance. Learn more
BEV: Battery Electric Vehicle: Also known as “Electric Vehicle” (See “Electric Vehicle” – EV). Learn more
BMS: Battery Management System: A system that manages the charging and discharging of batteries to ensure safe and efficient operation. Learn more
BSI: Blind Spot Intervention: Blind spot intervention helps prevent a collision with a vehicle in the driver’s blind spot. If the driver ignores the blind spot warning and starts to change to a lane where there’s a vehicle, the system activates and automatically applies light braking pressure or provides steering input to guide the vehicle back into the original lane. The system monitors for vehicles in the driver’s blind spot using rear-facing cameras or proximity sensors. Learn more
BSW: Blind Spot Warning: Uses a symbol, sound, or vibration to let the driver know there are vehicles located in their blind spots. Learn more
CAN: Controller Area Network: A vehicle bus standard designed to allow microcontrollers and devices to communicate with each other. Learn more
CIB: Crash Imminent Braking (part of AEB): Crash imminent braking automatically applies the vehicle’s braking to slow or stop the car if the driver fails to brake on time. Learn more
CCS: Combined Charging System: It offers both AC and DC charging on the same port and provides power of up to 350kW. This is the industry-standard method for public charging stations and also home charging setups in Europe and America. It may also be called a “combo plug”. Learn more
CDR: Crash Data Retrieval (part of EDR): Crash Data Retrieval is a term used by those who use specialized equipment to “retrieve” the vehicle’s EDR (event data recorder) data. Learn more
CHAdeMO: A DC fast-charging standard developed in Japan. Learn more
CPM: Charging Point Manager: This refers to a type of software responsible for smart charging, i.e., allocating power to different electric vehicles to make sure that each one charges as quickly as possible. It relies on customizable algorithms to work efficiently. Learn more
CPO: Charging Point Owner: A CPO is an operator who owns and oversees the operation of electric vehicle smart charging points. Learn more
DBS: Dynamic Brake Support (part of AEB): Dynamic brake support automatically supplements the driver’s braking if the driver doesn’t brake hard enough to avoid a crash. Learn more
DC: Direct Current: DC is one of the two types of ‘fuel’ that can be used to power electric vehicles. Unlike AC charging, which is converted into DC power by the car, DC charging can convert the AC power into DC right in the plug itself. DC chargers are larger, more expensive, but faster. It is more common at public charging stations, such as at a rest stop charge point. Learn more
DDT: Dynamic Driving Task: The dynamic driving task means all of the real-time operational and tactical functions required to operate a vehicle in on-road traffic, excluding strategic functions such as trip scheduling and selection of destinations and waypoints. Learn more
DLB: Dynamic Load Balancing: Where multiple charging stations are located, a way that level 2 and 3 chargers can be set up to dispense the available voltage. The term “First Come First Served” is used when setting up a string of EVSE that is set to DLB parameters. This means the first vehicle to attach to a charger will receive the highest output that the charger can deliver and that the vehicle will take. The other vehicles that plug into subsequent chargers will share the remaining power output available from the site. Learn more
DLM: Dynamic Load Management: Dynamic Load Management (or DLM) refers to an EV charging technology that makes it possible to evenly distribute electricity to all vehicles that might be plugged in simultaneously. In other words, DLM optimizes charging speed and prevents grid congestion episodes. Learn more
DoD: Depth of Discharge: The percentage of the battery capacity that has been used. Learn more
DSO: Distribution System Operator: These are the operating managers and/or owners of energy distribution networks. Learn more
DSSAD: Data Storage for Automated Driving: The DSSAD is a device or a function that records and stores a set of data from any vehicle equipped with Level 3, Level 4, or Level 5 Automated Driving Systems (ADS). Whenever a significant safety-related event occurs, it provides a clear picture of the interactions between the driver and the system before and after the event. Learn more
EDR: Event Data Recorder: An Event Data Recorder (EDR) is a function or device installed in a motor vehicle to record technical vehicle and occupant information for a very brief period of time before, during, and after a crash, solely for the purpose of monitoring and assessing vehicle safety system performance. Learn more
EMP: Electro-Mobility Provider: An EMP is a company that provides customers access to an electric vehicle charging network. They often offer tracking services, such as apps, for evaluating the availability of charging stations. EMPs are also responsible for determining the price of electric vehicle charging. Also known as EMSP (Electro-Mobility Service Provider). Learn more
EMV: Electromagnetic Compatibility: The ability of electronic devices to operate without interfering with each other. Learn more
EREV: Extended Range Electric Vehicle: A vehicle powered by electricity that can additionally be produced from a small internal combustion engine. Learn more
EV: Electric Vehicle: An EV is defined as a vehicle powered by an electric motor that draws electricity from a battery and is capable of being charged from an external source. EVs include both vehicles powered solely by an electric motor and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. Learn more
EVSE: Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment: Electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) supplies electricity to an electric vehicle (EV). Commonly called charging stations or charging docks, they provide electric power to the vehicle and use it to recharge the vehicle’s batteries. Learn more
FCEV: Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle: Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) are technologically advanced electric vehicles equipped with a fuel cell that converts hydrogen into electricity. The only by-product is condensed water vapor. FCEVs are emission-free. Learn more
FCW: Forward Collision Warning: Forward collision warning systems warn of an impending collision by detecting stopped or slow-moving vehicles ahead. The system uses radar, lasers, or cameras to scan the road and provides warnings using lights, beeps, or seat vibrations. Learn more
GHG: Greenhouse Gas: Greenhouse gases trap the sun’s heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, contributing to climate change. Common greenhouse gases include ozone, nitrous oxide, water vapor, methane, and carbon dioxide. Cars with internal combustion engines emit greenhouse gases through their tailpipes. Learn more
HEV: Hybrid Electric Vehicles: Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) combine an internal combustion engine with an electric motor. These motors recover energy during braking and store it in batteries, supporting the drivetrain. Learn more
ICE: Internal Combustion Engine: Internal combustion engines use liquid fuel (gasoline) to generate energy to power traditional vehicles. ICE cars are the most common vehicles on the road, though EVs are becoming more accessible. Learn more
LCA: Lane Centering Assistance: Lane centering assistance uses a camera-based vision system to monitor the vehicle’s lane position and automatically apply steering inputs to keep the vehicle centered within its lane. Learn more
LiFePO4: Lithium Iron Phosphate: A type of lithium-ion battery chemistry known for its safety and long cycle life. Learn more
Li-ion: Lithium Ion: A type of rechargeable battery commonly used in electric vehicles. Learn more
LKA: Lane Keeping Assistance: Lane keeping assistance prevents the vehicle from unintentionally drifting out of its lane. The system uses sensors to detect lane markings and corrects steering, braking, or acceleration to keep the vehicle in its lane. Learn more
LDW: Lane Departure Warning: A lane departure warning system monitors lane markings and alerts the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its lane. This system provides warnings but does not take action to avoid a crash. Learn more
MHEV: Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle: A mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) has an internal combustion engine supported by a small battery. These vehicles cannot run on electricity alone but use the battery to enhance efficiency and meet emissions standards. Learn more
NCA: Nickel Cobalt Aluminum: A type of lithium-ion battery chemistry known for its high-energy density. Learn more
NMC: Nickel Manganese Cobalt: A type of lithium-ion battery chemistry known for its high-power density and long cycle life. Learn more
NiMH: Nickel Metal Hydride: A type of rechargeable battery commonly used in hybrid electric vehicles. Learn more
NEV: New Energy Vehicle: This term refers to vehicles partially or fully powered by electricity, such as battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Learn more
OCPP: Open Charge Point Protocol: A communication protocol used by electric vehicle charging stations to communicate with central management systems. Learn more
OCV: Open Circuit Voltage: The voltage of a battery when it is not connected to a load or a charging source. Learn more
ODD: Operating Design Domain: In the automotive industry, operational design domains (ODDs) define the operating conditions under which a vehicle’s automated driving systems can be safely engaged. Each ODD is specific to the vehicle model and its features. Learn more
OEDR: Object and Event Detection and Response: Object and Event Detection and Response (OEDR) involves monitoring the driving environment, detecting, recognizing, and classifying objects and events, and executing appropriate responses to them. Learn more
PAEB: Pedestrian Automatic Emergency Braking: A pedestrian automatic emergency braking system uses forward sensors to detect a pedestrian in the vehicle’s path. The system will provide automatic braking if the driver does not act to avoid a crash. Learn more
PEV: Plug-in Electric Vehicle: A plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) is any road vehicle that can use an external source of electricity to charge its onboard rechargeable battery packs, powering an electric motor. PEVs include battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Learn more
PHEV: Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles: Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) are hybrids that can be plugged into an external power source. They combine battery-powered electric driving with a traditional internal combustion engine. Learn more
PID: Proportional Integral Derivative: A type of control algorithm used in charging systems to regulate voltage and current. Learn more
PIV: Plug-In Vehicle: This is a general term for any car with a plug socket for charging lithium-ion batteries, including battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles. Learn more
PWS: Pedestrian Warning Systems: The Pedestrian Warning System emits sound when driving below a certain speed or while reversing. This sound alerts pedestrians to the presence of the electric vehicle, which operates quietly. Learn more
RAB: Rear Automatic Braking: Rear automatic braking uses sensors, like parking sensors and the backup camera, to detect objects behind the vehicle. If the system detects a potential collision while in reverse, it automatically applies the brakes to prevent a crash. Learn more
RCTA: Rear Cross-Traffic Assist/Alert: Rear Cross Traffic Alert helps drivers back out of spaces where approaching traffic may not be visible. It monitors two areas behind the vehicle for traffic approaching from either side. Learn more
RCTW: Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning: A Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning system alerts the driver to vehicles approaching from the left or right while the vehicle is in reverse. Warnings can include icons on the mirrors, audible alerts, or dashboard notifications. Learn more
RFID: Radio-Frequency Identification: RFID technology links a card to an account and is commonly used in electric vehicle charging to conveniently start a charge through tapping. Learn more
RPH: Range Per Hour: Range per Hour (RPH) measures the distance an Electric Vehicle (EV) can travel in one hour on a single charge. It helps compare EV efficiency and aids in planning trips. Learn more
SDV: Software Defined Vehicles: A Software-Defined Vehicle manages its operations, adds functionality, and enables new features primarily or entirely through software. Learn more
SOC: State of Charge: The percentage of battery capacity currently available for use. Learn more
SOH: State of Health: A measure of the overall health and performance of a battery. Learn more
TOU: Time of Use Tariffs (Utility Rate): Time of Use tariffs encourage energy usage during off-peak times. Applied to EV charging, the rate is based on the time of day energy is drawn rather than total electricity used. Learn more
TSO: Transmission System Operator: A Transmission System Operator (TSO) is responsible for transporting energy and maintaining the infrastructure for energy distribution. Learn more
TSR: Traffic-Sign Recognition: The Traffic-Sign Recognition (TSR) system provides the driver with information about recently detected speed limits. It uses a front camera to capture road sign data and displays it on the vehicle’s dashboard. Learn more
ULEV: Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle: Ultra-Low Emission Vehicles (ULEVs) emit significantly fewer pollutants compared to traditional vehicles. In Europe, a ULEV emits less than 75g/km of carbon dioxide (CO2) and meets Euro 6 standards for nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter. Learn more
VPD: Vehicle Performance Data: Vehicle Performance Data includes information collected by a vehicle’s sensors and systems about its operation, performance, and usage. This data can optimize vehicle safety, performance, and maintenance. Learn more
V2B: Vehicle-to-Building: Vehicle-to-Building (V2B) technology allows energy stored in a vehicle’s battery to be used to power a building. It can provide backup energy for homes during power outages. Learn more
V2C: Vehicle-to-Cloud: Vehicle-to-Cloud (V2C) communication enables vehicles to exchange data with the cloud using cellular networks. Learn more
V2D: Vehicle-to-Device: Vehicle-to-Device (V2D) communication enables vehicles to exchange information with smart devices, usually via Bluetooth. Examples include Apple’s CarPlay and Google’s Android Auto, which integrate smartphones with the vehicle’s infotainment system. Learn mo
V2G: Vehicle-to-Grid: Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology allows energy to flow from an electric vehicle’s battery back to the power grid. This technology supports grid stability by balancing energy supply and demand. Learn more
V2H: Vehicle-to-Home: Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) technology enables electric vehicles to transfer energy back to the house. This bidirectional charging process allows the vehicle to serve as a backup energy source. Learn more
V2I: Vehicle-to-Infrastructure: Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I) communication involves bidirectional data exchange between a vehicle and road infrastructure, including traffic lights, cameras, and sensors. It supports intelligent transportation systems. Learn more
V2L: Vehicle-to-Load: Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology enables electric appliances to be powered using energy from an EV’s battery. Examples include charging a laptop or running a small appliance. Learn more
V2N: Vehicle-to-Network: Vehicle-to-Network (V2N) communication allows vehicles to use cellular networks to interact with the V2X management system, other vehicles, and road infrastructure. This enables seamless data exchange for smart transportation. Learn more
V2P: Vehicle-to-Pedestrian: Vehicle-to-Pedestrian (V2P) communication establishes a direct connection between a vehicle and pedestrians or other vulnerable road users like cyclists. Signals warn drivers and pedestrians about each other’s presence, enhancing safety. Learn more
V2V: Vehicle-to-Vehicle: Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) communication enables vehicles to continuously exchange information about their status. For example, a car braking suddenly can send a warning to other vehicles nearby, helping prevent collisions. Learn more
V2X: Vehicle-to-Everything: Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) encompasses multiple communication technologies, such as Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G), Vehicle-to-Home (V2H), Vehicle-to-Building (V2B), and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L). These enable vehicles to interact with their surroundings, improving functionality and energy use. Learn more
ZEV: Zero Emission Vehicles: Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEVs) emit no tailpipe pollutants. These vehicles are powered by renewable or clean energy sources, contributing to reduced air pollution and environmental sustainability. Learn more
Understanding the terminology behind mobility and automotive technology is vital for industry professionals and enthusiasts alike. As the field continues to evolve, these terms will serve as the foundation for navigating discussions around the future of mobility, safety, and innovation.
