Battery Integration Tackles Charging Network Challenges

FreeWire’s approach slashes the input power requirement for charging operators, allowing for rapid, low-cost deployment almost anywhere.

Automotive News – On March 8, Road Ranger welcomed the first of many EV Boost Charging Stations to its Waco, Texas, location. The ribbon-cutting saw the commissioning of four machines, giving the site the capacity to charge up to 8 EVs simultaneously. Road Ranger’s EV Charging Stations are compatible with all Level 3 EVs, as well as Teslas when using an adapter. A single electric vehicle can charge at up to 150 kW, or two EVs can charge simultaneously at 75 kW.

Ultrafast electric vehicle (EV) charging could open up electric mobility for vast swathes of drivers: those without access to home charging, those that frequently cover long distances, or those that need the peace of mind of a rapid top-up option. One of the biggest challenges in rolling out ultrafast charger networks relates to utility infrastructure. A typical gas station or convenience store today may use 50kW of power for its entire operation, including fuel pumps and lighting. One ultrafast charger alone may draw 200kW. A power upgrade is needed at these charging locations, but that can take time. In many places, transformer delivery alone could entail a 24-month wait.

FreeWire offers an alternative approach in the form of ultrafast EV charging technology that can be deployed anywhere at a fraction of the usual cost. The company claims a 20% saving on installation costs, with an estimated installation time of just two weeks. It also promises up to 70% savings in operating costs. The key: avoiding the usual electrical infrastructure upgrades by integrating a battery pack into the charger.