Tag Archives: Charging stations

BYD builds a network of ultra-fast charging stations in Europe

One of the biggest reasons why electric cars are not as popular as expected is the small number of charging stations. However, BYD has a plan to change that as it intends to build a network of ultra-fast charging stations in Europe.

The Vice President of BYD, Stella Li, recalled that one of the largest car manufacturers in the world recently unveiled a new platform with a charging power of 1,000 kW, which will allow its cars to travel 400 km after a 5-minute charge. It is a completely new level in the world of EVs and one of the steps that could make electric vehicles more attractive to customers.

The lack of ultra-fast charging stations in Europe is an obstacle for Chinese manufacturers whose cars are far ahead of the rest of the world. Li also noted that the ultra-fast stations will improve the charging speed of existing batteries, reducing charging time by 20 to 30%, which could have a big impact on increasing the popularity of EVs. The plan is to launch a charging network in Europe within the next 12 months, with some stations located at dealerships, and talks are underway with other entities as well.

BYD aims to become a major player in Europe within the next five years, and the first steps towards achieving this goal have already been taken. This year, a production facility in Hungary will start operating, along with a research and development center and the company’s European headquarters, which will be in Budapest. “We will produce in Europe to sell in Europe. We are committed to the long term and we are here to stay,” said Stella Li.

Source: Reuters

Porsche opened its fifth Porsche Charging Lounge

At the end of January, Porsche opened its fifth exclusive Porsche Charging Lounge. This charging station is located near Hamburg and the A1 motorway, making it easily accessible not only for drivers in northern Germany, but also for travelers heading to the Baltic Sea.

This charging station operates 24 hours a day and allows owners of all Porsche electric cars to use four DC fast charging stations with a capacity of up to 400 kW. While the vehicles are charging, drivers can enjoy comfortable seats with built-in speakers, as well as a wide selection of refreshing drinks and snacks, a water dispenser, modern sanitary facilities, and free Wi-Fi.

Porsche developed the modular concept of the filling station in cooperation with the F.A. studio. Porsche, and this one in Hamburg was the first to be implemented. It has a unique design that provides the ability to adjust depending on the terrain. The modules are mostly made of steel, stainless steel, wood and stone, and are manufactured by Porsche’s partner in Baden-Württemberg, using energy from renewable sources. The facility is air-conditioned using a heat pump, and part of the energy comes from the photovoltaic installation on the roof. Also, attention was paid to the optimization of energy consumption, so the lighting is automatically reduced when there are no visitors

In addition to the charging station in Hamburg, Porsche also has charging stations in Bingen am Rhein, Estenfeld near Würzburg, Koblach (Austria) and Ingolstadt. Access to the charging station and lounge area is only possible via Porsche ID, and if the license plate is linked to the Porsche ID, the barrier opens automatically using license plate recognition. Users can register via the My Porsche app, and access is also possible via the Porsche Charging Card or the QR code from the My Porsche app.

Source: Porsche

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BP built its first EV charging hub in the UK

Last year, Shell announced plans to replace oil stations with electric charging stations to meet the growing number of electric vehicles on the road. Another British oil company, BP (British Petroleum), followed the same path and installed five ultra-fast chargers of 300 kW in Cromwell Road in the western part of London, with the capacity to charge 10 cars simultaneously.

The charging station was installed in the place where the fuel station used to be, and BP was guided by research that showed that half of their customers in the UK visit retail sites purely to shop. That is why there is a store next to the charging station where drivers can buy food, drinks and other things.

“This new format site is not just about providing fast, reliable charging where drivers need it, but also delivering an outstanding retail experience, in a strategic location connecting central London with Heathrow and the west of England. Whether you’re looking for EV charging, traditional fuel, or just a great place to rest and recharge, bp is ready to become the first choice for customers on the roadside,” said Richard Bartlett, CEO of bp pulse.

BP Pulse now has almost 3,500 rapid and ultra-fast charge points, including at over 225 bp retail sites.

Source: BP