Widespread EV adoption can only happen with an excellent EV charging infrastructure in place. Based on data-driven forecasts, EV charging networks of the future will have wide area coverage, but the charging pattern will not be the same everywhere. In this article, EVJoints will explore different methods for charging your electric vehicles along with the evolution in the charging technology. Some of these methods, like charging at stations and using portable chargers, are already in use. However, a few of them have yet to gain widespread adoption, such as wireless charging.
Different chargers for different places: The EV charging networks of the future will be a mix of different charging technologies. We will find fast chargers at highways, where drivers are in need of a quick recharge. This will ensure that EV drivers can make long trips without long stops for charging. The slower chargers will be found at places where users spend more time, such as home, workplace, malls, etc.
The alternate solutions: Alternatives like on-demand mobile charging units, charging robots, portable chargers and wireless charging will be included in the mix depending on circumstances and locations. For instance, in case you run out of charge on a stretch of road without charging stations, an on-demand mobile charging service will be your rescue. Similarly, portable chargers can act as a power bank during long journeys.
EV parking featuring robots: It will take some time to implement fully automated commercial robotic charging. A standardized framework for an interoperable solution that is compatible with all types of electric vehicles is imperative for more automation in the field. Interoperability between different charge point operators, automatic vehicle identification systems and convenient payment systems will be integral parts of EV charging routines of the future. To achieve this, a joint effort between automobile manufacturers, robotics companies, charging infrastructure companies, energy utilities, banks and government authorities will be needed. Some pilot projects involving EV charging robot prototypes are already in operation.
The EV fleet scenario: As more businesses switch to EV fleets, the demand for charging infrastructure will increase exponentially. EV charging requirements of commercial vehicles will be a lot different from personal vehicles. We will see EV charging hubs come up in larger areas. India’s electric cab companies such as BluSmart and Evera have already started work on such hubs.
EV charging goes wireless: Wireless EV charging is another groundbreaking technology that will play a vital role in the future of EV charging. Also known as inductive charging, wireless charging uses an electromagnetic field to relay energy between a charging pad and an EV battery, eliminating the need for a physical connection between the two.
Currently, wireless charging is still in early stages of development, but several companies are planning on commercializing the tech.
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Bulking up the basics: Apart from focusing on different methods, modes & types of charging, companies are also strengthening the basics. Constant research is being carried out to develop high-speed charging tech that can deliver up to 350 kW of power, reducing charging times to as less as 15 minutes. These high-speed chargers are already being deployed and as battery tech continues to improve, they will become even more widespread. Industry professionals believe that ‘below 10 minute’ charging will be a game-changing event. With 800-volt architectures becoming more prevalent in EVs, ‘below 10 minute’ juice-ups may be a reality soon.
Role of algorithms: Smart charging technology using advanced algorithms & machine learning to optimize charging schedules based on factors such as energy demand, grid stability and availability of renewable energy sources will lead to enhanced & much more efficient results.
Solar EV charging: By installing solar panels on the roof of houses or charging stations, EV owners can generate their own electricity and use it to charge their vehicle. This has many benefits, including reduced dependence on the grid, lower energy costs and a lower carbon footprint. Solar EV charging can also help reduce strain on the grid during peak demand periods. This technology is already available, but it is still relatively expensive and not widely adopted. As the cost of solar panels decrease, we can expect to see extensive adoption of solar charging for EVs.
Adding in some luxury: Brightly lit and security camera-equipped charging stations integrating design and comfort elements like solar canopies and luxurious customer lounges are likely to be a common sight in developed countries soon. Charging stations located at shopping malls and restaurants have already started offering valet charging and kerbside delivery facilities for added convenience.
Conclusion:
The future of EV charging will be automated and simplified. These technologies will have a significant impact on the EV industry in terms of propelling adoption.
EV charging technology is rapidly evolving, and there are several exciting innovations on the horizon that promise to make EV charging more convenient and efficient than ever before.
