Jacob van Zonneveld (Deftpower)
Overview
Jacob van Zonneveld is a prominent figure in the electric vehicle (EV) charging industry, serving as the co-founder and CEO of Deftpower, a leading provider of AI-supported SaaS platforms for EV charging. His journey in e-mobility began with co-founding Plugsurfing, a startup that revolutionized EV charging accessibility across Europe, which was later acquired by Finnish energy giant Fortum. Van Zonneveld's contributions to the field extend beyond entrepreneurial ventures, encompassing a deep-seated commitment to sustainable energy solutions and innovative problem-solving in urban mobility.
Recent Developments
In the past few years, Jacob van Zonneveld has been actively involved in shaping the future of EV charging through strategic initiatives and partnerships.
- August 29, 2025: Deftpower announced a €12.5 million funding round led by Endeit Capital to enhance its AI-powered smart charging technology. The funding will accelerate Deftpower’s expansion across Europe and further develop its infrastructure to handle millions of transactions seamlessly.
- May 2025: Deftpower initiated a smart charging trial in Amsterdam aimed at tackling grid congestion and optimizing energy usage. The project seeks to encourage smart charging strategies to improve grid stability while reducing costs and emissions.
- March 2025: Fisker Inc. named Deftpower as its European public charging platform provider, offering Fisker Ocean owners access to one of Europe's largest EV charging networks. This partnership underscores Deftpower's growing influence in aligning charging solutions with automotive needs.
Jacob van Zonneveld's leadership continues to drive Deftpower's mission to simplify EV charging, making it more accessible and economically viable across the continent. His approach to integrating AI technology into EV charging platforms positions Deftpower as a critical player in supporting Europe’s energy transition.
Personal Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jacob van Zonneveld |
| Born | N/A |
| Nationality | Dutch |
| Occupation | Co-founder and CEO of Deftpower |
| Known For | Co-founder of Plugsurfing, Co-founder and CEO of Deftpower |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
| Education | MA in Modern History and International Relations, University of Groningen |
| Residence | Arnhem, Netherlands |
Early Life and Education
Jacob van Zonneveld pursued his academic interests with a focus on political culture and system theories, earning his MA in Modern History and International Relations from the University of Groningen. His educational journey also included a period at Universität Potsdam, where he expanded his understanding of international relations and political violence. During his formative years, van Zonneveld developed a fascination with the intersection of technology and societal challenges, which would later inform his entrepreneurial ventures in the EV sector.
Career and Notable Achievements
Jacob van Zonneveld's career is marked by significant milestones in the electric mobility industry:
- Plugsurfing (2012-2019): Co-founded Plugsurfing, which provided a platform to alleviate range anxiety for EV drivers by facilitating access to charging stations across Europe. The platform was instrumental in connecting EV owners with charging networks seamlessly. Plugsurfing was acquired by Fortum in 2018.
- Deftpower (2020-present): Co-founded Deftpower, an AI-powered SaaS company dedicated to optimizing EV charging processes. Under his leadership, Deftpower has become a linchpin in Europe's EV infrastructure, offering solutions that align charging during cost-effective timeframes to benefit both the grid and consumers.
Jacob van Zonneveld's initiatives reflect his commitment to leveraging technology to address environmental challenges and enhance urban mobility.
Current Work and Impact
Currently, Jacob van Zonneveld continues to helm Deftpower, overseeing its expansion across the European market. Through strategic alliances and innovative technology, Deftpower addresses critical challenges in EV charging, including affordability, energy efficiency, and integration with renewable resources. The company's recent initiatives in smart grid solutions position it as a leader in optimizing Europe’s energy transition, contributing to reduced carbon emissions and sustainable urban development.
Conclusion
Jacob van Zonneveld's impact on the EV charging landscape is significant, with his ventures advancing the transition toward a more sustainable transportation ecosystem. As Deftpower continues to grow and innovate, van Zonneveld's vision for a seamless, accessible, and efficient EV charging network remains pivotal. His efforts are not only transforming the way vehicles are charged but are also setting a benchmark for sustainable practices in the mobility sector. Moving forward, his work is likely to influence continued advancements in integrating technological solutions with environmental goals in urban settings.