Top Cybersecurity Tools for V2G Systems

The UK’s push for Net Zero by 2035 relies heavily on Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology, where electric vehicles (EVs) can return energy to the grid during peak demand. However, this innovation introduces serious cybersecurity risks. Threats like Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) and Denial of Service (DoS) attacks, alongside vulnerabilities in protocols like OCPP and TLS, could disrupt operations, compromise data, and impact grid stability.

To tackle these challenges, tools like digital twin simulations, threat assessment frameworks, and real-time intrusion detection systems (IDS) are emerging as critical defences. These solutions help identify vulnerabilities, simulate attacks, and monitor systems in real-time. Projects like CyberTWIN-EV, funded by Innovate UK, showcase the integration of digital twin platforms and cybersecurity suites to secure V2G infrastructure.

Key Cybersecurity Measures:

• Digital Twin Platforms: Simulate V2G systems to test vulnerabilities without disrupting live operations.
• Threat and Risk Assessment Frameworks: Tools like CRISKLE evaluate risks across EVs, charging points, and grids.
• Intrusion Detection Systems: Monitor and alert on cyber threats in real time.
• Monitoring Solutions: Track energy and data flow to detect irregularities.
• Compliance Tools: Ensure adherence to standards like ISO 21434, ISO 15118, and the EU Radio Equipment Directive.

These tools align with the UK’s decarbonisation goals, supporting secure integration of millions of EVs into the grid while mitigating cyber risks.

Securing EV charging & V2G: protecting vehicles from cyber threats at the plug

1. Digital Twin-Based Threat Assessment Platforms

Digital twin-based threat assessment platforms are transforming how security teams safeguard EV charging infrastructure and grid systems. By creating virtual replicas of these systems, they allow vulnerabilities to be identified and addressed without disrupting live operations. Instead of testing security measures directly on operational systems - which could lead to downtime - these platforms simulate the entire EV-Grid-EVSE ecosystem in a digital environment.

Through this simulation, organisations can model complex cyberattack scenarios, such as Denial of Service (DoS) and Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attacks. For instance, the CyberTWIN-EV project combines a digital twin with the CRISKLE suite to evaluate vulnerabilities within EV-grid systems. This method lays the groundwork for thorough threat analysis across every layer of the ecosystem.

Threat Coverage

Digital twin platforms provide comprehensive threat coverage across vehicles, grids, and charging interfaces. They excel in identifying vulnerabilities in communication protocols and simulating cyber threats. Using real-time threat modelling and anomaly detection, these systems pinpoint security gaps before they can be exploited. Their digital twin-based Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) continuously monitor for unusual behaviours, logging anomalies to a centralised Mobility Security Operations Centre (MSOC).

Beyond cybersecurity, these platforms can predict maintenance needs and manage dynamic loads during cyber-attack scenarios. This capability helps stakeholders assess how malicious activities might impact grid stability and equipment performance, without the risks associated with live testing.

Integration with V2G Systems

To support Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) operations effectively, digital twin platforms must integrate seamlessly with critical communication protocols and standards. For example, compatibility with OCPP ensures smooth interaction between charging stations and central control systems, while adherence to ISO 15118 secures data exchange between vehicles and the grid. Support for UDP and TLS protocols further strengthens their ability to handle V2G communications. By simulating bidirectional energy flows during both charging and discharging, these platforms offer insights into system behaviour under various cyber threat scenarios. This integration ensures robust monitoring and enhances system resilience.

Real-Time Monitoring and Alerting Capabilities

Real-time monitoring is a key feature of digital twin platforms. Their IDS systems continuously detect and log anomalies, triggering alerts via MQTT or HTTPS protocols to the central MSOC whenever unusual activity occurs. This centralised alerting system is especially valuable for managing distributed EV charging networks, as it enables security teams to respond quickly and effectively. Moreover, the interoperable data collected by these systems helps energy providers optimise grid operations.

Regulatory Compliance and Standards Alignment

Digital twin platforms are built to comply with international standards like ISO 21434 and ISO 15118, ensuring that EV and grid assets meet stringent cybersecurity requirements. In the UK, these platforms can play a significant role in supporting government decarbonisation goals by bolstering the resilience of the energy network. Initiatives such as CyberTWIN-EV highlight how these platforms can align with emerging cybersecurity policies, fostering collaboration between infrastructure operators, energy providers, and other stakeholders. This cooperative approach aids the development of open standards and smart access protocols, which are essential as the regulatory framework for V2G systems evolves.

2. Threat and Risk Assessment Frameworks

Threat and Risk Assessment (TARA) frameworks are essential for building strong cybersecurity measures in Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) systems. These frameworks go beyond examining individual components; they assess the interconnected relationships between vehicles, Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE), and grid infrastructure. This holistic approach is crucial for identifying vulnerabilities across the entire V2G ecosystem.

One standout solution in this space is the CRISKLE cybersecurity suite, developed by Secure Elements. Designed specifically for EV charging systems, CRISKLE integrates with digital twin platforms, as demonstrated by the CyberTWIN-EV project, which received £300,000 in Innovate UK funding. By simulating vulnerabilities across the EVSE–Grid–Vehicle interface, this approach enables comprehensive threat modelling and anomaly detection without disrupting live operations. CRISKLE’s methodology marks a significant step forward in securing V2G systems.

Threat Coverage

CRISKLE focuses on addressing the most pressing cyber threats to V2G operations, such as Denial of Service (DoS) and Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attacks. These threats highlight the importance of maintaining robust security in a system designed to provide flexible energy capacity.

The framework scrutinises vulnerabilities across all communication layers, with particular attention to electric charging points and weaknesses in protocols like OCPP, UDP, and TLS. It also examines how these vulnerabilities could impact maintenance schedules and dynamic load management during cyber incidents. Unlike traditional methods, CRISKLE offers continuous and iterative testing of security defences, ensuring that systems remain resilient without affecting live grid operations.

Integration with V2G Systems

CRISKLE takes the digital twin approach a step further by enhancing the interoperability of V2G systems. It evaluates vulnerabilities within the EV charging communication stack while ensuring compliance with key standards like ISO 21434 and ISO 15118.

This standardised approach is particularly vital as Europe’s power demand is projected to exceed 4,500 TWh by 2050. Scaling V2G integration securely requires frameworks like CRISKLE to manage the complexities of such growth.

Real-Time Monitoring and Alerting Capabilities

CRISKLE’s real-time monitoring features are powered by a centralised Managed Security Operations Centre (MSoC). This system processes intrusion detection system (IDS) log alerts via MQTT/HTTPS protocols, allowing security teams to quickly identify and respond to anomalies.

The MSoC ensures that anomalies are logged and alerts are sent in real time, enabling rapid responses to potential threats before they disrupt operations. This capability is especially critical for managing distributed EV charging networks across the UK. By shifting from periodic testing to continuous risk assessment, CRISKLE provides ongoing visibility into the security landscape, allowing organisations to act on threats as they arise.

Regulatory Compliance and Standards Alignment

CRISKLE aligns with key regulatory standards, ensuring it meets the cybersecurity requirements of both the automotive and energy sectors. It complies with ISO 21434 for automotive systems and ISO 15118 for V2G communication.

The CyberTWIN-EV project’s funding under Innovate UK’s "Building a Secure and Resilient World" programme underscores the UK government’s focus on securing critical energy infrastructure. By adhering to these standards, organisations using CRISKLE can demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements - an increasingly important factor as the UK moves towards its 2035 network decarbonisation goal.

This level of security assurance is crucial for the UK’s Net Zero ambitions. EVs are expected to play a pivotal role as distributed energy resources, helping to balance renewable energy and provide essential grid services. CRISKLE’s robust threat and risk assessment capabilities empower grid operators to deploy bidirectional charging at scale with confidence, ensuring system stability and security. This is a key enabler for integrating millions of EVs into the grid as active, secure participants.

3. Real-Time Intrusion Detection Systems

Real-Time Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) serve as a critical defence mechanism for V2G infrastructure, continuously monitoring network traffic and system behaviour to detect cyber threats as they arise. Unlike traditional security tools that rely on periodic checks, these systems provide instant threat identification and response - an essential feature for safeguarding the intricate interactions between vehicles, charging stations, and the grid.

Take CyberTWIN-EV as an example: this advanced IDS technology identifies anomalies and logs them directly to a centralised Mobility Security Operations Centre (MSoC). This allows for coordinated threat management across distributed charging networks. Building on earlier security frameworks, these systems enable swift detection and response to potential threats within V2G networks.

Threat Coverage

The real-time capabilities of these systems allow them to address a wide range of complex threats, extending beyond the usual network security issues. The unique interface between vehicles and the grid creates vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit, potentially impacting both individual EVs and the wider grid.

For instance, Denial of Service (DoS) attacks can target multiple Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) at once, potentially interfering with grid frequency regulation and voltage support. With estimates suggesting that by 2030, half of the vehicles on UK roads could be V2G-enabled - providing around 16 GW of flexible daily capacity - the consequences of coordinated DoS attacks could be devastating.

Similarly, Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attacks pose a significant risk, allowing hackers to intercept communications between EVs, charging points, and grid systems. This could lead to manipulated charging behaviours or the theft of sensitive data. Modern IDS platforms monitor vulnerabilities across the entire communication stack, including weaknesses in charging protocols and equipment.

Integration with V2G Systems

Building on insights from digital twin technology and risk assessments, real-time IDS solutions enhance the security of V2G operations. For these systems to be effective, they must integrate smoothly with the protocols and standards that underpin V2G activities. For example, compatibility with the Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) ensures seamless communication between charging stations and central management systems. Meanwhile, IDS platforms monitor traffic for irregularities without interrupting normal operations.

Adhering to relevant standards ensures that these systems protect bidirectional energy flows while maintaining interoperability. Digital twin technology is particularly valuable here, enabling the simulation of complex cyberattack scenarios that would be too risky or impractical to test in real-world settings. This approach includes innovations such as digital twin simulations, threat assessment frameworks, and integrated vehicle-grid IDS.

Real-Time Monitoring and Alerting Capabilities

To be effective, IDS systems must quickly alert security teams to emerging threats. Modern systems use protocols like MQTT and HTTPS to transmit alerts to Mobility Security Operations Centres, achieving response times within seconds. This centralised monitoring approach is especially beneficial for organisations managing widespread charging networks across the UK, enabling them to oversee threats across their entire infrastructure from a single cloud-based hub.

Energy providers also gain from the high-quality, interoperable data generated by these platforms. Such data streams help grid operators refine their response strategies and develop advanced threat mitigation protocols. By correlating alerts from multiple V2G assets, security teams can identify coordinated attacks and evaluate their severity more effectively. The UK's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has emphasised the importance of safeguarding flexible energy systems as part of its broader mission to protect digital infrastructure.

Regulatory Compliance and Standards Alignment

Real-Time IDS systems used in the UK energy sector must comply with strict regulatory requirements, ensuring that cybersecurity risks are properly addressed throughout a vehicle's lifecycle.

Looking ahead, the EU Radio Equipment Directive (RED) will introduce additional cybersecurity standards for EV chargers, with a compliance deadline set for August 2025. Organisations implementing Real-Time IDS systems should ensure their solutions are prepared to meet these evolving regulatory demands.

These efforts align with the UK government's goal of transforming the energy network by 2035 as part of its decarbonisation strategy. If 50% of vehicles in the UK are V2G-enabled by 2030, the grid could unlock 22 TWh of flexible EV discharging capacity annually. This would be a vital resource for integrating renewable energy and maintaining grid stability. By defending this infrastructure from cyber threats, Real-Time IDS systems play an essential role in supporting the large-scale deployment of V2G technology, which is key to achieving the UK's Net Zero ambitions.

4. Vehicle-to-Grid Interaction Monitoring Solutions

V2G monitoring tools are designed to track the flow of energy and data between electric vehicles (EVs), charging equipment, and the grid. As EVs evolve from simply consuming electricity to actively supporting grid management, monitoring these interactions becomes crucial for ensuring security and operational stability. This targeted monitoring works alongside broader intrusion detection measures.

A prime example is the CyberTWIN-EV project, which integrates monitoring with threat detection to secure V2G interactions. By combining CyberAutonomy's energy digital twin platform with Secure Elements' CRISKLE cybersecurity suite, this system models the interaction between EVs, charging stations, and the grid. It uses threat modelling and anomaly detection to monitor all three interfaces. When irregularities are detected, the vehicle's digital twin-based intrusion detection system (IDS) logs them to CRISKLE's Mobility Security Operations Centre via MQTT/HTTPS protocols.

Threat Coverage

V2G monitoring focuses on threats that arise from bidirectional energy flows and the protocols that govern them. Key concerns include Man-in-the-Middle attacks, which intercept communications between vehicles and the grid, and Denial of Service attacks, which could disrupt multiple charging points simultaneously.

These tools also examine vulnerabilities in communication protocols such as OCPP, UDP, and TLS, which enable charging stations to interact with management systems and grid operators. Unlike traditional one-way charging, the bidirectional nature of V2G introduces new potential attack surfaces.

The stakes are high. By 2030, it is estimated that half of all UK vehicles will be V2G-enabled, contributing about 16 GW of daily flexible capacity and 22 TWh of annual flexible EV discharging capacity. Protecting this resource from cyber threats is essential for ensuring that V2G technology can support services like frequency regulation, voltage stabilisation, and peak demand management without jeopardising grid reliability.

Integration with V2G Systems

Monitoring tools must integrate seamlessly with existing charging infrastructure while adhering to established standards. Solutions are designed to work with protocols like OCPP, ISO 21434, and ISO 15118, ensuring compatibility across diverse charging networks operated by different providers. This standards-based approach strengthens the unified defence strategies discussed earlier.

For example, monitoring tools can analyse OCPP traffic for irregularities without disrupting operations. Compatibility with ISO 15118 allows for secure tracking of bidirectional energy flows, covering critical aspects like authentication, billing, and grid service coordination.

Digital twin technology takes this a step further by creating virtual models of V2G interactions. These simulations allow for testing scenarios like Denial of Service and Man-in-the-Middle attacks in a controlled environment, avoiding the risks of live testing. This approach also helps predict maintenance needs and manage dynamic loads effectively.

Real-Time Monitoring and Alerting Capabilities

The fast-paced nature of V2G operations requires real-time detection of security incidents. Modern monitoring solutions can identify anomalies as they happen and send alerts to security operations centres in seconds. For instance, the CyberTWIN-EV system logs anomalies directly to a centralised Mobility Security Operations Centre, enabling rapid response.

This centralised monitoring is especially valuable for organisations managing charging networks across multiple locations. Security teams can oversee threats from a single platform, correlating alerts from different sites to identify patterns or coordinated attacks. Using MQTT and HTTPS protocols ensures reliable communication, even under challenging network conditions.

In addition to immediate threat detection, these tools generate actionable data in standardised formats. This helps energy providers refine their response strategies and improve grid operations. By enabling data sharing across stakeholders, from charging point operators to grid managers, these systems enhance collaboration within the energy ecosystem.

Regulatory Compliance and Standards Alignment

In the UK, V2G monitoring solutions must comply with a complex and evolving regulatory framework. Adhering to standards like ISO 21434 and ISO 15118 ensures that cybersecurity risks are managed throughout a vehicle's lifecycle and that communication interfaces meet international benchmarks.

The Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation sets deployment targets for 2025 and 2030, incorporating security requirements for various communication standards. Meanwhile, the EU Radio Equipment Directive adds further cybersecurity requirements for EV chargers, with a compliance deadline of August 2025. Monitoring solutions must be designed to meet these regulations while remaining adaptable to future changes.

The UK's goal of decarbonising its energy network by 2035 adds another layer of urgency. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has prioritised protecting flexible energy systems from cyber threats. Monitoring solutions that align with NCSC guidance are well-positioned to support the widespread adoption of V2G technology, which is vital for achieving Net Zero targets.

Collaborative initiatives like CyberTWIN-EV, which bring together small businesses and academic institutions, reflect the UK government's strategy for developing practical cybersecurity solutions. This approach ensures that monitoring tools address operational needs and can be quickly adopted across the growing EV charging infrastructure.

5. Smart Charging Infrastructure Compliance Tools

Compliance tools play a critical role in ensuring that charging infrastructure adheres to regulatory and security standards from the initial deployment phase through ongoing operations. These tools complement real-time monitoring and detection methods discussed earlier, adapting to evolving regulations like the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation and the EU Radio Equipment Directive’s cybersecurity requirements set for August 2025.

Threat Coverage

These tools assess vulnerabilities across the entire charging ecosystem. For example, the CyberTWIN-EV project showcases this by modelling the EVSE–Grid–Vehicle system to pinpoint potential weaknesses in charging stations and communication protocols.

By simulating threat scenarios that would be impractical to test in real-world settings, these tools provide a proactive layer of defence. This is especially crucial as the UK anticipates having 50% of vehicles equipped with V2G capabilities by 2030, offering around 16 GW of daily flexible energy capacity to the grid - a resource that must be safeguarded from cyber risks.

Security controls for key systems - such as authentication, billing, and grid service coordination - are validated during this process. This reduces the opportunities for malicious actors to exploit vulnerabilities, ensuring a more secure infrastructure from the outset.

Integration with V2G Systems

After identifying potential threats, these tools are integrated to support secure bidirectional communication. The CyberTWIN-EV initiative evaluates assets using ISO 21434 for automotive cybersecurity and ISO 15118 for vehicle-to-grid communication, ensuring all system interfaces meet stringent security standards.

This approach ensures compatibility across diverse networks operated by different providers. Compliance tools verify that communication protocols maintain data integrity during energy exchanges, ensuring secure operations for authentication, billing, and grid coordination under varying load conditions.

The use of digital twin simulations is key here. The CyberTWIN-EV project employs an EV and Grid Digital Twin to simulate realistic scenarios without risking live infrastructure. These simulations provide insights into Vehicle-to-Grid interactions, helping operators predict maintenance needs and manage dynamic loads, even under cyber-attack conditions.

Another critical aspect is data interoperability. Compliance tools ensure that assessments produce outputs in standardised formats, enabling energy providers to share security insights across the ecosystem. This facilitates coordinated responses among charging network operators, vehicle manufacturers, and grid managers.

Real-Time Monitoring and Alerting Capabilities

Although compliance tools are primarily used for pre-deployment validation, many now incorporate real-time monitoring to maintain adherence to security standards. For instance, the CyberTWIN-EV project integrates a vehicle digital twin-based Intrusion Detection System. This system identifies anomalies and logs them to a Mobility Security Operations Centre for immediate analysis.

Alerts are communicated using MQTT/HTTPS protocols, enabling quick responses to suspicious activity. By combining real-time alerting with compliance assessments, these tools help ensure a continuous and robust security posture for V2G systems.

Real-time monitoring is essential for detecting protocol violations or unusual data patterns that could signal emerging threats. Rapid detection allows security teams to act swiftly, minimising the time between identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities.

Regulatory Compliance and Standards Alignment

The UK's regulatory framework for EV charging infrastructure is continually evolving, presenting complex compliance challenges. The National Cyber Security Centre emphasises the importance of protecting flexible energy systems from cyber threats as part of its broader mission to safeguard digital infrastructure. Compliance tools must align with these priorities while adhering to international standards and emerging EU regulations.

Some providers have already achieved compliance with the EU Radio Equipment Directive ahead of its August 2025 deadline. This proactive approach highlights how compliance tools can help operators stay ahead of regulatory demands, avoiding last-minute scrambles.

The CyberTWIN-EV project exemplifies the collaborative efforts required to develop effective compliance solutions. Supported by Innovate UK's "Building a Secure and Resilient World" programme, this initiative unites small and medium-sized businesses with academic institutions to create commercially viable cybersecurity tools.

For example, the collaboration between CyberAutonomy's energy digital twin platform and Secure Elements' CRISKLE cybersecurity suite demonstrates how combining expertise can lead to practical solutions. The project focuses on improving grid security and enhancing the resilience of EV charging systems against threats like Man-in-the-Middle and Denial of Service attacks.

6. Data Interoperability and Grid Operations Platforms

Data interoperability platforms serve as the bridge between vehicles, charging stations, and grid systems, standardising data exchange and turning raw information into actionable insights for grid management. The main challenge here is aligning various communication protocols while ensuring strong security measures. Modern Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) systems depend on multiple standards like OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol), UDP, and TLS, each with distinct security needs. This standardisation is the backbone of smooth V2G integration.

Integration with V2G Systems

Once the data foundation is in place, successful integration enables seamless communication between diverse systems. To achieve this, platforms must support both current and emerging standards. Protocol translation layers are key to ensuring compatibility, allowing different equipment to interact smoothly. This flexibility enables energy providers to create scalable networks that comply with regulations like AFIR, while also avoiding vendor lock-in. With forecasts predicting tens of millions of EVs on European roads by 2030, such adaptability is crucial.

Real-Time Monitoring and Alerting Capabilities

Interoperability platforms enable real-time monitoring by incorporating IDS alerts via protocols like MQTT or HTTPS, allowing for quick detection and response to threats. They also monitor operational metrics such as charging behaviours, load balancing, and frequency regulation, all of which contribute to grid stability. This is particularly significant in the UK, where, by 2030, 50% of vehicles could be V2G-enabled, potentially delivering around 16 GW of daily flexible capacity to the grid. Grid operators often rely on dashboards to track critical metrics like voltage support and peak shaving opportunities. Advanced systems even include anomaly detection algorithms to identify unusual patterns, which could signal equipment issues or cyber threats.

Threat Coverage

These platforms enhance grid operations by offering tools for threat modelling, anomaly detection, and risk assessment across V2G interfaces. Security is bolstered through encryption, access controls, and audit logging, ensuring only authorised personnel can access sensitive data. Historical trend analysis also plays a role, helping providers optimise maintenance and manage loads more effectively. For example, seasonal EV charging trends can be studied, and grid management strategies tested using digital twin simulations, all without disrupting real-world operations.

Regulatory Compliance and Standards Alignment

Modern V2G platforms are designed with compliance in mind, embedding frameworks that validate configurations, generate audit trails, and support certification processes. They include built-in checks to ensure alignment with guidelines such as those from the NCSC, as well as AFIR requirements and evolving international standards. This is especially important in the UK, where the government aims to decarbonise the grid by 2035. By integrating compliance validation directly into their architecture, these platforms ensure security and regulatory adherence throughout the system's lifecycle, moving beyond the outdated approach of treating compliance as a one-time task.

7. Cybersecurity Standards and Compliance Frameworks

Cybersecurity standards and compliance frameworks are essential for safeguarding Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) systems. Unlike traditional automotive security, these frameworks tackle the unique challenges posed by bi-directional energy flow, grid integration, and the intricate interactions between vehicles, charging stations, and energy networks. A well-structured compliance approach ensures that V2G systems not only adhere to regulations but also maintain robust security across the entire ecosystem.

Regulatory Compliance and Standards Alignment

Standards like ISO 21434 and ISO 15118 play a critical role in defining risk management and communication protocols for V2G systems. A practical example of their implementation can be seen in the CyberTWIN-EV project. On a broader scale, the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) outlines deployment goals for 2025 and 2030, incorporating security requirements for communication protocols.

In the UK, organisations must navigate evolving regulations, such as the EU Radio Equipment Directive (RED), which has a compliance deadline of August 2025. Companies like Easee have already demonstrated early compliance with such directives. Looking ahead, with the UK government targeting a decarbonised energy network by 2035, and the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) focusing on the security of flexible energy systems, compliance frameworks must adapt to support modernised grid efforts. These regulations provide the foundation for integrating V2G technology into the energy landscape securely and efficiently.

Integration with V2G Systems

For V2G systems to function effectively, compliance frameworks must align seamlessly with V2G protocols. The CyberTWIN-EV project has identified vulnerabilities in protocols such as OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol), UDP, and TLS, highlighting the need for tailored security measures. Each protocol presents unique challenges, and ensuring interoperability across devices from various manufacturers is key to building scalable and secure networks.

This adaptability is particularly important when considering the potential impact of V2G technology. If half of the vehicles on UK roads were V2G-enabled by 2030, they could contribute approximately 16 GW of flexible capacity to the grid each day. Standardising communication protocols and data formats is crucial for achieving this level of integration, as it enables smoother grid operations and better sharing of threat intelligence.

Threat Coverage

Beyond integration, compliance frameworks must address a wide range of threats. The CyberTWIN-EV project uses threat modelling and risk assessments to examine vulnerabilities across vehicles, grids, and Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE). By simulating potential attacks on V2G systems, organisations can proactively develop strategies to enhance resilience, ensuring the grid can handle dynamic loads and anticipate maintenance needs.

Supply chain vulnerabilities and firmware weaknesses in charging equipment also require attention. The CyberTWIN-EV project has highlighted how communication protocols and charging points can be exploited in supply chain attacks. To mitigate these risks, compliance frameworks should mandate secure firmware updates and regular assessments of vendors to identify and address potential weaknesses.

Real-Time Monitoring and Alerting Capabilities

Real-time monitoring is a critical component of any cybersecurity strategy. The CyberTWIN-EV project incorporates a vehicle digital twin-based intrusion detection system (IDS) to simulate and detect cyberattacks. This system logs anomalies and communicates them to CRISKLE's Mobility Security Operations Centre (MSoC) using MQTT/HTTPS protocols. Such capabilities enable rapid responses to emerging threats, which is vital for protecting critical grid infrastructure.

Comparison Table

The table below provides a detailed overview of the key features of various cybersecurity tools tailored for Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) systems. It highlights their threat coverage, adherence to standards, real-time monitoring capabilities, and regulatory compliance.

The CyberTWIN-EV project serves as a practical example of how these tools can be integrated into a cohesive cybersecurity framework. Backed by £300,000 in funding from Innovate UK under the Building a Secure and Resilient World programme, the project combines CyberAutonomy's energy digital twin platform with Secure Elements' CRISKLE cybersecurity suite. This partnership ensures robust protection across all critical V2G interfaces, including vehicles, charging points, and grid infrastructure.

When selecting cybersecurity tools, organisations must prioritise scalability and security to match the growing adoption of V2G systems. Each tool plays a specific role in addressing threats like Denial-of-Service (DoS) and Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attacks. For instance, digital twin platforms are particularly effective at simulating complex attack scenarios without physical risk, while CRISKLE's TARA framework systematically identifies vulnerabilities across the ecosystem.

All tools listed adhere to ISO 21434 and ISO 15118 standards, ensuring compliance with both current and emerging UK and EU regulations. With the EU Radio Equipment Directive compliance deadline set for August 2025, tools designed for RED verification are becoming essential. Companies like Easee have already achieved compliance ahead of this deadline, setting an example for others.

Real-time monitoring is another crucial feature. Tools like vehicle digital twin-based intrusion detection systems can identify anomalies as they happen, sending real-time alerts to central operations centres. This allows for rapid responses to potential threats, minimising risks to grid stability and vehicle systems.

This comparison underscores the importance of layered cybersecurity measures in securing V2G systems. By choosing tools that address multiple threat vectors and meet regulatory requirements, organisations can confidently scale their V2G deployments to support the UK's net zero ambitions.

Conclusion

Choosing the right cybersecurity tools for Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) systems involves balancing protection against cyber threats, adhering to regulatory standards, and ensuring smooth operational integration. Organisations must thoroughly evaluate the cyber risks specific to their EV charging infrastructure. Notable threats like Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) and Denial of Service (DoS) attacks can jeopardise both grid stability and vehicle systems, making proactive risk management essential.

Regulatory compliance is a cornerstone of any V2G cybersecurity strategy. Tools should align with frameworks such as ISO 21434 and ISO 15118, which offer guidelines on automotive cybersecurity and secure communication between vehicles and charging points. With the EU Radio Equipment Directive compliance deadline set for August 2025, organisations must ensure their chosen solutions meet these evolving standards. This focus on regulations ensures that security measures integrate seamlessly with operational requirements.

Integration capabilities are another critical factor. The best solutions offer interoperable, data-driven outputs that connect effortlessly with existing grid management and fleet telematics systems. Effective systems should use standard protocols like MQTT or HTTPS to relay alerts to centralised security operations centres, enabling swift responses to potential threats.

Digital twin technology is proving invaluable in this space. By simulating cyberattack scenarios in controlled virtual environments, organisations can identify vulnerabilities in communication protocols such as OCPP, UDP, or TLS. This approach strengthens security without disrupting live systems.

For fleet operators managing commercial vehicles, these cybersecurity measures are equally crucial. It’s important to select V2G tools that integrate seamlessly with existing telematics and tracking systems. Enhanced visibility into security and operational metrics allows for faster, more informed decision-making. For instance, solutions from GRS Fleet Telematics (https://grsft.com) offer advanced van tracking capabilities that can complement robust cybersecurity measures, supporting the UK’s decarbonisation goals for 2035.

Collaboration also plays a key role. Initiatives like the CyberTWIN-EV project, which received £300,000 in funding from Innovate UK, demonstrate how partnerships between SMEs and academic institutions can drive the development of commercially viable cybersecurity solutions. These collaborations ensure that tools remain aligned with industry best practices and evolving threats.

Ultimately, successful implementation of V2G cybersecurity solutions hinges on addressing diverse threat vectors while meeting operational needs. By focusing on tools that incorporate threat simulation, real-time monitoring, and regulatory alignment, organisations can scale their V2G deployments with confidence as the UK transitions to more flexible and sustainable energy systems.

FAQs

How can digital twin platforms improve the cybersecurity of Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) systems?

Digital twin platforms play a key role in boosting the cybersecurity of Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) systems. By creating virtual replicas of physical assets, they allow for real-time monitoring and analysis. These digital models can simulate potential cyber threats, helping to spot vulnerabilities before they affect the actual system.

With continuous performance analysis and anomaly detection, digital twins provide an early warning system against cyberattacks. This forward-thinking approach helps keep V2G systems secure and reliable, protecting both the infrastructure and sensitive user data.

How do compliance tools enhance the cybersecurity of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) charging systems?

Compliance tools are essential for protecting V2G charging systems, ensuring they align with industry standards and meet regulatory requirements. They help pinpoint weak spots, enforce security measures, and maintain alignment with cybersecurity guidelines, all of which minimise the chances of cyberattacks.

By using these tools, organisations can keep an eye on system performance, spot unusual activity, and secure data exchanges between vehicles and the grid. This forward-thinking strategy not only safeguards sensitive data but also strengthens confidence in the dependability of V2G infrastructure.

Why is real-time monitoring important for securing V2G systems?

Real-time monitoring plays a crucial role in safeguarding vehicle-to-grid (V2G) systems, allowing for the immediate detection and handling of potential threats. By keeping a constant eye on system activity, any unusual behaviour or unauthorised access attempts can be spotted and dealt with swiftly, preventing issues from escalating.

GRS Fleet Telematics offers cutting-edge real-time tracking tools, such as live GPS updates and instant theft alerts. These features ensure your V2G systems stay secure and function smoothly around the clock.

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