New EU cybersecurity requirements for connected products
The RED Directive is the EU’s regulatory framework for radio equipment – and it already applies to EV chargers with radio communication capabilities. Starting August 1, 2025, the directive will be expanded to include new requirements focusing on cybersecurity and data protection.
As society becomes increasingly digital, EV chargers and charging stations are also becoming smarter and more connected. They can be controlled via apps, integrated with the power grid, and connected to smart home systems. But as functionality increases, so do the demands for security and reliability. That’s where the RED Directive comes in – an EU regulation that sets requirements for products using radio communication technologies, such as WiFi, Bluetooth, or mobile networks.
What is the RED Directive?
RED stands for Radio Equipment Directive and has been in force across the EU since 2016/17. It ensures that wireless equipment is safe to use, does not interfere with other devices, and functions reliably. All products with radio communication capabilities sold within the EU must comply with the RED Directive and carry the CE marking. For GARO’s EV chargers, this means we already conduct thorough testing and quality assurance to ensure our products meet all applicable technical requirements.
New requirements from August 1, 2025
The EU has decided to expand the RED Directive with new rules concerning cybersecurity and data privacy. This means that connected products—such as EV chargers using radio interfaces to connect to the internet—must also be designed to protect user data and resist cyberattacks. The new rules take effect on August 1, 2025, and the CE marking under the RED Directive will be updated to confirm that the manufacturer complies with the EU’s cybersecurity requirements.
For GARO, these new requirements mean that our EV chargers must be secure not only physically, but digitally as well.
“We welcome the new requirements under the RED Directive. Ultimately, it’s about ensuring safety and trust, and we see this as a natural part of developing tomorrow’s charging solutions. Our products are already prepared for the new requirements. These stricter regulations will help raise the level of security across the entire industry, benefiting installers, end users, and society as a whole,” says Niklas Rönnäng, Business Area Manager GARO E-mobility.
What does this mean for you as an installer or user?
If you install or use a wallbox or a charging station from GARO, you can rest assured that we comply with current regulations and are adapting to upcoming changes. No additional action is required on your part – but it’s good to know that cybersecurity requirements will soon be an official part of EU legislation for smart, connected products.