Innovative Solutions to Cope with the EV Charging Infrastructure Needs

It is critical to find solutions to the charging infrastructure needs and improve their accessibility to increase the uptake of EVs. 

Electric vehicles (EVs) have risen in popularity and global sales have nearly doubled reaching 5.1 million last year. Unfortunately, EVs make up only 0.1% of the world’s automotive market according to the OECD. One of the major concerns that prevents individuals from switching to electric cars is the issue of charging stations of which there are already 630,000 installed across the globe. It is critical to find solutions to the charging infrastructure needs and improve their accessibility to increase the uptake of EVs.

Ultra-Fast Chargers 

There are 3 different categories of charging EVs. Level 1 is a typical 120V AC plug commonly used at home, but is the slowest. Level 2 chargers are for residential and commercial use with some installed as part of a solar system panel providing a sustainable and clean source of energy. Level 3 are quick DC chargers with the fastest EV charger capable of juicing a car with 350kW in just 8 minutes providing an autonomy of about 120 miles.  

However, cars are not yet ready to handle this surge of power and current charging infrastructure is slower delivering from 19.2kW to 120kW charging. Hence, 350kW is a big jump, but if both vehicles and infrastructure are ready, this could convince people to make the switch to green cars.

Wireless Charging and Battery Swapping

Another option to improve EV charging infrastructure is wireless changing. The idea is similar to charging smartphones wirelessly. It uses the concept of resonant magnetic induction that will transmit energy from a charging pad to the car.

Battery swapping is also envisaged to provide a better and faster way of recharging electric cars. Vehicles are going to swap flat batteries for fully recharged ones. Consumers are expected to benefit in the long run as they only pay for energy and batteries that they use in addition to increased driving range.

Roaming Agreements

To expand customer base and offer a better service, roaming agreements with EV charging operators allow clients to top up their batteries across different providers using only one contract. Using an app or charge card, the task of recharging is simple and flexible.

This strategy will enable drivers to go to any station and recharge their batteries without cumbersome paper work. Accessibility is enhanced that will hopefully increase EV adoption.

Fast chargers, wireless charging, battery swapping, and roaming agreements are some of the ways to enhance EV adoption. They offer solutions to barriers that prevent more people from switching to electric cars.

Jennifer Dawson

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13.11.2019   |  

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