Review Article | | Peer-Reviewed

Recent Advances and Challenges in Electric Vehicles and Charging Infrastructure: A Comprehensive Review

Received: 17 August 2025     Accepted: 9 September 2025     Published: 17 October 2025
Views:       Downloads:
Abstract

Global transportation sector is experiencing a profound transformation with the rapid adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) as a cleaner and more sustainable alternative to conventional internal combustion engine vehicles. Over the past decade, advances in battery technology, powertrain efficiency, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) integration have significantly accelerated EV development and deployment. This comprehensive review summarizes recent technological innovations while also analyzing the critical challenges hindering large-scale EV adoption. Key obstacles include limited charging infrastructure, grid capacity constraints, standardization issues, high upfront costs, and concerns about charging convenience and range anxiety. Furthermore, disparities in urban and rural charging access raise concerns about equity and inclusiveness in the EV transition. Recent research and pilot programs demonstrate the potential of emerging solutions such as smart charging, wireless power transfer, micro grid integration, and coupling EV charging with renewable energy sources to alleviate grid stress and enhance sustainability. Additionally, innovative business models and policy interventions, including government incentives and standardization efforts, are essential to promote investment in fast-charging networks and interoperability. The integration of stationary energy storage systems, time-of-use pricing strategies, and advanced energy management systems offers promising pathways to achieve efficient load balancing and demand-side flexibility. Finally, future research should focus on harmonizing charging standards, enhancing user experience, and fostering cost-effective, large-scale deployment strategies to accelerate the global transition toward sustainable, electrified transportation systems.

Published in American Journal of Mechanical and Materials Engineering (Volume 9, Issue 4)
DOI 10.11648/j.ajmme.20250904.11
Page(s) 97-101
Creative Commons

This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.

Copyright

Copyright © The Author(s), 2025. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Electric Vehicles (EVs), Charging Infrastructure, Battery Technologies, Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G), Smart Charging, Renewable Integration, Sustainable Mobility

1. Introduction
Electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as a key component in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels in the transportation sector. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the global EV stock surpassed 16 million units in 2021, with an expected annual growth rate exceeding 30% over the next decade . Despite technological progress, the widespread adoption of EVs is hindered by challenges in charging infrastructure deployment and integration with existing power grids. This review aims to analyze the state-of-the-art advancements in EV technologies and the associated charging infrastructure, identifying key challenges and proposing future pathways. The urgency to mitigate climate change, reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and transition to cleaner energy sources has placed electric vehicles (EVs) at the forefront of global transportation innovation. Unlike conventional vehicles powered by internal combustion engines (ICEs), EVs utilize electricity stored in high-capacity batteries to power electric motors, resulting in significantly lower tailpipe emissions. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the global EV stock surpassed 16 million units in 2021 and is projected to continue growing at an annual rate exceeding 30% throughout the next decade. This growth trajectory underscores the role of EVs as an essential component of sustainable urban mobility and energy transition strategies Despite their promise, EVs face multiple barriers to mass adoption. These include technological challenges related to battery performance, concerns over charging infrastructure availability, high upfront costs, and consumer perceptions of limited range and long charging times. Furthermore, the integration of millions of EVs into existing electricity grids introduces additional technical complexities regarding grid stability, demand management, and renewable energy integration. To address these issues, researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders are actively pursuing innovations in EV technology and charging infrastructure.
2. Advances in Electric Vehicle Technology
2.1. Battery Technologies
Batteries remain the heart of EV performance, determining vehicle range, safety, cost, and consumer acceptance. The dominant technology in today’s EVs is the lithium-ion battery (Li-ion), which provides high energy density, long lifespan, and relatively low self-discharge rates. However, limitations such as resource scarcity, environmental impact of mining, and degradation over time have motivated research into next-generation batteries.
Battery systems are the heart of EVs, determining their range, cost, and safety. Lithium-ion batteries currently dominate due to their high energy density and lifespan. Recent developments include:
1) Solid-state batteries:
These batteries replace liquid electrolytes with solid ones, offering improved safety, higher energy density, and faster charging times .
2) Lithium-sulfur and lithium-air batteries:
Promising ultra-high energy densities, these technologies are still under research but could revolutionize EV range .
3) Battery management systems (BMS):
Enhanced BMS improve battery lifespan and safety by optimizing charging and discharging cycles .
2.2. Powertrain and Efficiency Improvements
Modern EV powertrains utilize permanent magnet synchronous motors and advanced inverters for higher efficiency and power density . Regenerative braking systems also contribute to energy recovery, extending vehicle range.
2.3. Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) Integration
V2G technology enables EVs to feed stored energy back into the grid during
peak demand, enhancing grid stability and supporting renewable integration . Pilot projects have demonstrated the feasibility of V2G in frequency regulation and demand response applications .
3. Charging Infrastructure Technologies
3.1. Charging Levels and Standards
Level 1 Charging: Uses a standard household outlet (120V AC), providing 2-5 miles of range per hour. Mostly used for overnight home charging .
Level 2 Charging: Operates at 240V AC, providing 10-60 miles of range per hour. Common in residential, workplace, and public settings .
Level 3 or DC Fast Charging: Supplies direct current at high power (50 kW to 350 kW), enabling 80% charge in 20-40 minutes. Critical for long-distance travel .
Standards like CHAdeMO, CCS (Combined Charging System), and Tesla’s proprietary connector influence interoperability and infrastructure deployment .
3.2. Wireless Charging
Inductive charging allows EVs to charge without physical connectors, enhancing convenience especially in public parking and fleet applications . However, efficiency and cost remain challenges.
3.3. Smart Charging and Demand Management
Integration of IoT and communication technologies facilitates smart charging strategies to optimize load on the grid, reduce charging costs, and incorporate renewable energy availability . Time-of-use pricing incentivizes off-peak charging to balance demand.
4. Challenges in Charging Infrastructure Development
4.1 Grid Capacity and Stability
High EV penetration increases electricity demand, straining distribution networks. Without proper grid upgrades and smart management, localized outages and voltage fluctuations may occur . Integration with renewable generation adds variability, requiring advanced forecasting and storage solutions . The increasing penetration of EVs places additional strain on electricity distribution networks. Simultaneous charging during peak hours can result in voltage fluctuations, transformer overloads, and localized outages. The integration of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind introduces variability, further complicating grid stability. Advanced forecasting, energy storage, and demand response programs are needed to balance supply and demand in a high-EV future.
4.2. Standardization and Interoperability
The coexistence of multiple charging standards creates barriers for EV users and infrastructure providers, leading to compatibility issues and reduced convenience . The coexistence of multiple charging standards and payment systems has created fragmentation in the EV charging market. This lack of interoperability reduces consumer convenience and increases costs for charging providers. Achieving global consensus on charging protocols is crucial for seamless user experiences and accelerated infrastructure deployment.
4.3. Deployment Costs and Business Models
High upfront costs for charging stations, especially DC fast chargers, limit deployment in many regions. Uncertain demand and return on investment pose challenges for private investors and utilities . The high upfront cost of installing charging infrastructure, particularly DC fast chargers, poses financial challenges. Utilities, private investors, and governments must explore innovative business models such as public-private partnerships, subscription-based services, and dynamic pricing strategies to make infrastructure deployment economically viable.
4.4. Accessibility and Equity
Urban-rural disparities in charging availability affect equitable EV adoption. Multifamily dwellings and public spaces often lack sufficient charging infrastructure . Urban-rural disparities in charging infrastructure availability remain a major equity concern. While urban centers often benefit from dense charging networks, rural and underserved communities face limited access. Multifamily dwellings and public spaces often lack adequate charging facilities, raising questions of fairness in EV adoption. Addressing these gaps will be critical to ensuring that the benefits of electrification are distributed equitably across all demographics.
4.5. User Experience: Charging Time and Range Anxiety
Long charging durations compared to refueling conventional vehicles contribute to consumer hesitation. Limited range and insufficient charging points amplify “range anxiety” . Consumer adoption of EVs is strongly influenced by perceptions of charging convenience. Long charging times compared to gasoline refueling contribute to range anxiety—a persistent concern among potential buyers. Expanding fast-charging networks, improving battery technology, and enhancing real-time information systems for locating chargers are strategies to alleviate this barrier.
5. Emerging Solutions and Future Directions
5.1. Renewable Energy Integration
Coupling EV charging with solar and wind generation reduces carbon footprint and eases grid demand .
5.2. Energy Storage and Microgrids
Stationary battery storage systems can buffer charging loads, while microgrid architectures improve resilience and local energy management .
5.3. Policy and Incentive Mechanisms
Government subsidies, tax incentives, and mandates on infrastructure standards promote market growth and technology adoption .
5.4. Autonomous and Robotic Charging
Robotic systems and automated charging offer potential convenience improvements, especially for fleet and shared mobility applications .
6. Conclusion
Electric vehicles represent a cornerstone of the transition to sustainable mobility, offering significant environmental and economic benefits. However, challenges related to charging infrastructure, grid stability, and consumer perceptions remain formidable. Emerging solutions—ranging from smart charging and wireless technologies to renewable integration and supportive policies—hold the potential to overcome these barriers. Future research should emphasize the development of integrated energy systems, standardized protocols, and equitable infrastructure deployment strategies. By addressing these challenges through innovation, collaboration, and forward-looking policies, the global community can pave the way for widespread EV adoption and a cleaner, more resilient transportation future.
Table 1. Charging levels, voltage, and typical use cases.

Charging Level

Voltage

Charging Speed

Typical Use

Level 1

120V AC

2–5 miles of range per hour

Overnight home charging

Level 2

240V AC

10–60 miles of range per hour

Residential, workplace, and public charging

Level 3 (DC Fast)

Direct Current, 50–350 kW

80% charge in 20–40 minutes

Highways, long-distance travel

Table 2. Battery types, advantages, and commercialization status.

Battery Type

Advantages

Challenges

Commercialization Status

Solid-State

Higher energy density, improved safety, faster charging

High cost, manufacturing complexity

In development, early pilots

Lithium-Sulfur

Ultra-high energy density, lightweight

Poor cycle life, instability

Research stage

Lithium-Air

Extremely high theoretical energy density

Durability, oxygen crossover issues

Experimental stage

Figure 1. EV adoption trends over the past decade.
Figure 2. Comparison of charging levels and standards.
Illustration of charging speeds for different levels of EV charging. Readiness levels are illustrative estimates, reflecting current research and development status.
Figure 3. Integration of EVs with renewable energy sources.
Abbreviations

EV

Electric Vehicle

ICE

Internal Combustion Engine

V2G

Vehicle-to-Grid

BMS

Battery Management System

GHG

Greenhouse Gas

CCS

Combined Charging System

CHAdeMO

CHArge de MOve (DC fast charging standard)

IoT

Internet of Things

Author Contributions
Javad Heydari is the sole author. The author read and approved the final manuscript.
Conflicts of Interest
The author declares no conflicts of interest.
References
[1] International Energy Agency (IEA), Global EV Outlook 2022, IEA, Paris, 2022.
[2] J. Janek and W. G. Zeier, “A solid future for battery development,” Nature Energy, vol. 1, no. 9, p. 16141, 2016.
[3] N. N. Rajput et al., “Lithium-air batteries: from concept to commercialization,” Journal of Power Sources, vol. 415, pp. 16–30, 2019.
[4] M. Chen et al., “Battery management system and SOC development for electrical vehicles,” Energy Procedia, vol. 16, pp. 1874–1884, 2012.
[5] S. Das, Electric Vehicle Machines and Drives, Wiley, 2017.
[6] T. Kempton and J. Tomić, “Vehicle-to-grid power implementation: From stabilizing the grid to supporting large-scale renewable energy,” Journal of Power Sources, vol. 144, no. 1, pp. 280–294, 2005.
[7] H. Lund et al., “Smart grid integration of electric vehicles and vehicle-to-grid technology,” Renewable Energy, vol. 69, pp. 372–381, 2014.
[8] U.S. Department of Energy, “Types of Electric Vehicle Chargers,” Energy. gov, 2021.
[9] M. Ceraolo et al., “Fast charging of electric vehicles: A technology review,” Energies, vol. 12, no. 9, 2019.
[10] A. Andreasson et al., “Electric vehicle charging infrastructure standards: A review,” IEEE Transactions on Transportation Electrification, vol. 3, no. 1, pp. 91–103, 2017.
[11] S. Imura et al., “Wireless power transfer for electric vehicles and mobile devices,” Proceedings of the IEEE, vol. 101, no. 6, pp. 1271–1281, 2013.
[12] J. Wang et al., “Smart charging of electric vehicles: A review of technologies and applications,” Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, vol. 120, 2020.
[13] Y. Song et al., “Impact of electric vehicles on power distribution system,” IEEE Transactions on Power Systems, vol. 28, no. 2, pp. 1425–1433, 2013.
[14] M. O’Malley et al., “Challenges in integrating renewables and EVs into the grid,” Energy Policy, vol. 123, pp. 461–470, 2018.
[15] A. Knezović et al., “Charging standards and interoperability for electric vehicles,” Energy Reports, vol. 6, pp. 299–309, 2020.
[16] S. Graham-Rowe et al., “Barriers to electric vehicle charging infrastructure investment,” Energy Policy, vol. 114, pp. 279–290, 2018.
[17] J. Ziegler et al., “Equity challenges in EV infrastructure deployment,” Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment, vol. 71, pp. 131–141, 2019.
[18] S. Egbue and S. Long, “Barriers to widespread adoption of electric vehicles: An analysis,” Energy Policy, vol. 48, pp. 717–729, 2012.
[19] K. Clement-Nyns et al., “The impact of charging plug-in hybrid electric vehicles on a residential distribution grid,” IEEE Transactions on Power Systems, vol. 25, no. 1, pp. 371–380, 2010.
[20] G. Graditi et al., “Energy storage and microgrid systems for EV charging,” Applied Energy, vol. 222, pp. 946–957, 2018.
[21] S. Mock and Z. Yang, “Policy incentives for EV charging infrastructure development,” Transportation Research Record, vol. 2664, no. 7, pp. 1–10, 2017.
[22] R. Kumar et al., “Autonomous robotic charging of electric vehicles: State-of-the-art and future challenges,” IEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems, 2022.
Cite This Article
  • APA Style

    Heydari, J. (2025). Recent Advances and Challenges in Electric Vehicles and Charging Infrastructure: A Comprehensive Review. American Journal of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, 9(4), 97-101. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajmme.20250904.11

    Copy | Download

    ACS Style

    Heydari, J. Recent Advances and Challenges in Electric Vehicles and Charging Infrastructure: A Comprehensive Review. Am. J. Mech. Mater. Eng. 2025, 9(4), 97-101. doi: 10.11648/j.ajmme.20250904.11

    Copy | Download

    AMA Style

    Heydari J. Recent Advances and Challenges in Electric Vehicles and Charging Infrastructure: A Comprehensive Review. Am J Mech Mater Eng. 2025;9(4):97-101. doi: 10.11648/j.ajmme.20250904.11

    Copy | Download

  • @article{10.11648/j.ajmme.20250904.11,
      author = {Javad Heydari},
      title = {Recent Advances and Challenges in Electric Vehicles and Charging Infrastructure: A Comprehensive Review
    },
      journal = {American Journal of Mechanical and Materials Engineering},
      volume = {9},
      number = {4},
      pages = {97-101},
      doi = {10.11648/j.ajmme.20250904.11},
      url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajmme.20250904.11},
      eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ajmme.20250904.11},
      abstract = {Global transportation sector is experiencing a profound transformation with the rapid adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) as a cleaner and more sustainable alternative to conventional internal combustion engine vehicles. Over the past decade, advances in battery technology, powertrain efficiency, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) integration have significantly accelerated EV development and deployment. This comprehensive review summarizes recent technological innovations while also analyzing the critical challenges hindering large-scale EV adoption. Key obstacles include limited charging infrastructure, grid capacity constraints, standardization issues, high upfront costs, and concerns about charging convenience and range anxiety. Furthermore, disparities in urban and rural charging access raise concerns about equity and inclusiveness in the EV transition. Recent research and pilot programs demonstrate the potential of emerging solutions such as smart charging, wireless power transfer, micro grid integration, and coupling EV charging with renewable energy sources to alleviate grid stress and enhance sustainability. Additionally, innovative business models and policy interventions, including government incentives and standardization efforts, are essential to promote investment in fast-charging networks and interoperability. The integration of stationary energy storage systems, time-of-use pricing strategies, and advanced energy management systems offers promising pathways to achieve efficient load balancing and demand-side flexibility. Finally, future research should focus on harmonizing charging standards, enhancing user experience, and fostering cost-effective, large-scale deployment strategies to accelerate the global transition toward sustainable, electrified transportation systems.
    },
     year = {2025}
    }
    

    Copy | Download

  • TY  - JOUR
    T1  - Recent Advances and Challenges in Electric Vehicles and Charging Infrastructure: A Comprehensive Review
    
    AU  - Javad Heydari
    Y1  - 2025/10/17
    PY  - 2025
    N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajmme.20250904.11
    DO  - 10.11648/j.ajmme.20250904.11
    T2  - American Journal of Mechanical and Materials Engineering
    JF  - American Journal of Mechanical and Materials Engineering
    JO  - American Journal of Mechanical and Materials Engineering
    SP  - 97
    EP  - 101
    PB  - Science Publishing Group
    SN  - 2639-9652
    UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajmme.20250904.11
    AB  - Global transportation sector is experiencing a profound transformation with the rapid adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) as a cleaner and more sustainable alternative to conventional internal combustion engine vehicles. Over the past decade, advances in battery technology, powertrain efficiency, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) integration have significantly accelerated EV development and deployment. This comprehensive review summarizes recent technological innovations while also analyzing the critical challenges hindering large-scale EV adoption. Key obstacles include limited charging infrastructure, grid capacity constraints, standardization issues, high upfront costs, and concerns about charging convenience and range anxiety. Furthermore, disparities in urban and rural charging access raise concerns about equity and inclusiveness in the EV transition. Recent research and pilot programs demonstrate the potential of emerging solutions such as smart charging, wireless power transfer, micro grid integration, and coupling EV charging with renewable energy sources to alleviate grid stress and enhance sustainability. Additionally, innovative business models and policy interventions, including government incentives and standardization efforts, are essential to promote investment in fast-charging networks and interoperability. The integration of stationary energy storage systems, time-of-use pricing strategies, and advanced energy management systems offers promising pathways to achieve efficient load balancing and demand-side flexibility. Finally, future research should focus on harmonizing charging standards, enhancing user experience, and fostering cost-effective, large-scale deployment strategies to accelerate the global transition toward sustainable, electrified transportation systems.
    
    VL  - 9
    IS  - 4
    ER  - 

    Copy | Download

Author Information
  • Department of Automotive Engineering, Mohajer Technical University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran

  • Abstract
  • Keywords
  • Document Sections

    1. 1. Introduction
    2. 2. Advances in Electric Vehicle Technology
    3. 3. Charging Infrastructure Technologies
    4. 4. Challenges in Charging Infrastructure Development
    5. 5. Emerging Solutions and Future Directions
    6. 6. Conclusion
    Show Full Outline
  • Abbreviations
  • Author Contributions
  • Conflicts of Interest
  • References
  • Cite This Article
  • Author Information