The boost in innovation for electric vehicles and battery systems has also led to innovations in charging technology. Fast-charging stations and the associated infrastructure are some of the most important requirements for electric vehicle users.
It is not only the large companies asserting their position in the market. From mobile charging stations to intelligent software solutions – even young start-ups are developing technologies which are changing the market.
1. Multi-socket for charging
ChargeX have developed the Aqueduct system which allows up to ten charging points to be installed from just one grid connection – in contrast to conventional methods which only allow one charging point per supply line. Thanks to the innovative mounting concept, installation of a smart charge module with up to 22-kW charging capacity takes less than 60 seconds. Using the charging current distribution app, it is possible to carry out needs-based charging.
2. Software for charging stations
eMabler has developed a SaaS API platform which enables power companies or charging station manufacturers to quickly and easily include electric vehicle charging infrastructure in their other business systems, e.g. in mobile applications, existing customer platforms and payment solutions. With just a mobile app, drivers of electric cars can seamlessly use charging stations from various operators and billing takes place via a central point.
3. Off-grid charging
Constructing new on-grid chargers is often a difficult, lengthy and cost-intensive process. L-Charge offers an alternative: the company is building charging stations that are independent of the power grid and they are building three models: fixed, mobile and floating. The solutions are equipped with generators which generate electricity from hydrogen or LNG. The stations enable ultra-fast charging – going from 0 to 80 per cent in 15 to 25 minutes.
4. Pop-up charging station
The UEone from Urban Electric Networks is the world’s first pop-up charging station, and it solves the charging problem faced by 50 per cent of drivers in cities who park on the street at night. The charging stations automatically sink into the ground once the charging cable is disconnected. In this way, the streetscape is affected as little as possible and the stations are protected from vandalism. With a charging capacity of 7 kW they enable intelligent overnight charging.
5. Network for long distance journeys
Along European motorways, Ionity is building and operating a high-power charging network with a charging capacity of up to 350 kW along European motorways. During stopovers, electric vehicle drivers can benefit from high charging speeds when using the European charging standard CCS. Every charging park has four charging stations on average. 100 per cent renewable energy is provided at every charging station.
6. Making charging easy
Easee has developed an intelligent charger which offers not only a cloud connection free of charge but also a free eSIM, automatic updates and extra services. The system impresses in many aspects that are not just important today, but will be essential in the future, as well. These include the automatic load and phase balancing between charging stations and other consumers and the integration of photovoltaic systems, billing systems, flexible tariff systems and smart home systems.
