eTech49 Podcast: Robert Brehm on FLEXECHARGE’s Journey and Vision for EV Charging

Recently, our co-founder and CTO, Robert Brehm, had the privilege of being featured on the Tech Podcast with Ryan Morn, delving into the electrifying journey of FLEXeCHARGE. From beginnings rooted in academic research to pioneering solutions in the electric vehicle (EV) charging industry, Robert shared the challenges and achievements that have shaped our mission. This discussion was not just a recount of our past but a forward-looking perspective on our role in shaping the future of EV charging.

Robert's journey, as described in the podcast, showcases his direct path of continuous innovation and adaptation. From his beginnings as a mechatronics student working on oceanographic research equipment in Canada to his impactful PhD research in Denmark, Robert has always been at the forefront of energy management and sustainability. His work, focusing on the optimization of distributed systems and microgrids, particularly in the context of electric vehicles, laid the groundwork for FLEXeCHARGE. It's a narrative that speaks to the core of our company: a blend of academic excellence, practical innovation, and a deep commitment to environmental sustainability.

The inception of FLEXeCHARGE in late 2018 was a response to a clear gap in the market for intelligent EV charging solutions. Initially met with skepticism, our belief in the necessity of sophisticated load management and our resilience in the face of industry doubt underscore our journey. The development of an Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) proxy was a key moment for us, showcasing our ability to adapt and innovate. This technology not only solved a critical industry challenge but also marked our transition towards software solutions, setting the stage for our future growth.

The conversation with Ryan also touched on the significant milestone of securing pre-seed funding. This moment was crucial, allowing us to focus fully on our vision and bringing onboard additional expertise for dealing with the challenges of the tech industry. It underscored the importance of not just innovative technology but also of strategic partnerships and the collective effort required to bring transformative ideas to market.

As we look towards the future, our discussion on the podcast served as a reflection on the importance of adaptability, perseverance, and strategic thinking in the tech industry. With every challenge we’ve faced, we’ve grown stronger and more committed to our mission of integrating EV charging with the grid to facilitate a sustainable mobility future.

Find out how we have constantly adapted our offering to new and emerging market trends. Listen to find out how we went from Static Load Management, to Dynamic Load Management, to Scheduling and to, recently, battery integration and laying the foundation for “Virtual Power Plant”.

Joining the Tech Podcast was not just an opportunity to share our story; it was an invitation to our customers, partners, and the broader community to engage with us as we continue to innovate and push the boundaries of what’s possible in EV charging. We are driven by the belief that the path to a more sustainable future is paved with technology, collaboration, and a shared vision for a greener world.

Enough reading – put your best headphones on and dive into the interview of our CTO.