How Smart Mobile EV Charging Station Will Bring Revolution in Sustainable Future?
How Smart Mobile EV Charging Station Will Bring Revolution in Sustainable Future?
By Sayan Bhowmick
In a modern world characterized by global interconnectedness and a strong focus on sustainability, Electric Vehicles (EVs) hold a significant role in shaping an environmentally friendly future. According to a report by the International Energy Agency (IEA), the sales of Electric Vehicles are projected to grow by 35% Year-over-Year (YoY). Additionally, a forecast from GlobeNewsWire predicts a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 17.8% for the global EV market from 2023 to 2030.
Presently, the infrastructure for EV charging is in its early stages of development, with a major portion of charging taking place at private residences. Nevertheless, to accommodate the rising demand for EVs, the establishment of public charging stations is imperative.
Despite governments outlining plans and regulations for the expansion of EV charging networks, many companies are yet to meet the required benchmarks. In India, for instance, it is estimated that the number of charging stations needs to increase by ninefold to meet current EV demand, while in the US, the pace of charging station installations must triple by 2030. To address this challenge, several companies are embracing mobile EV charging facilities as an alternative solution, known as Charging as a Service (CaaS), which enables them to efficiently fulfill the demand for EV charging.
However, a fundamental question arises: is the deployment of mobile charging stations truly necessary?
Examining factors such as cost-effectiveness and the ability to fulfill rapid charging needs during emergencies, the evidence leans toward a positive response. Still, inherent challenges cannot be overlooked. The establishment of robust charging infrastructure takes time, a point widely acknowledged. Furthermore, factors like shortages of transformers and chips on a global scale hinder the progress of charging infrastructure development. For instance, remote rural areas in India may lack reliable mobile signal coverage, making the expectation of EV chargers in such regions impractical. Nonetheless, surveys indicate an accelerated adoption of EVs even in rural areas.
From a cost perspective, a substantial distinction exists between static charging point infrastructure and mobile charging stations. An average Level 2 charging unit (EVSE) costs around $19,200, excluding yearly maintenance, land, and other overhead expenses. Conversely, the starting price for a portable EV mobile charger is $6,500, not accounting for carriers like cars or minivans.
A technologically advanced EV mobile charging system integrated with AI and IoT capabilities would simplify the lives of individuals planning to purchase EVs in the near future or those considering it but uncertain about charging accessibility, roadside assistance, and emergency situations. Although charging infrastructure is slated for improvement in the coming decades, questions linger regarding the expansion of charging points in rural or semi-urban areas. In this context, a smart mobile EV charging system would prove advantageous for EV sellers, charging solution providers, battery vendors, and other stakeholders.
System Architecture
The EV charging system will be managed entirely through EV Management software. This software will serve as a central hub, connecting customers’ mobile devices, vehicles, and service providers. Utilizing data collected from vehicle movement, the software will generate informative matrices for optimizing vehicle performance and other essential operations.
The Vehicle Management system will provide users with:
- Visual representations of vehicle performance.
- Emissions reduction metrics.
- Optimal eco-friendly speeds for maximizing battery life and efficiency.
- Projected range based on current charge.
- Information about nearby charging providers.
- Safety guidelines.
- Details of nearby amenities such as restaurants, malls, hospitals, and restrooms.
The integrated system will aid users in locating charging options when traditional charging points are unavailable. This real-time software will automatically connect users with service providers when battery levels require recharging to reach a specific destination. On-demand charging requests will also be accommodated, with the nearest charging vehicle dispatched promptly. During charging sessions, users can engage in recreational activities available within the charging vehicle. Upon completing one EV’s charging cycle, the mobile charging vehicle will proceed to the next requested EV. This smart vehicle system will rely on renewable energy sources like solar and waste-to-energy for battery charging.
Advantages of this Solution:
- On-demand, rapid, and convenient charging solution.
- Efficient utilization of energy and time by reducing travel distances to charging points.
- Cost savings.
- Optimized vehicle lifespan and performance.
- Emergency assistance.
- Commitment to sustainability and enhanced efficiency.
- Improved safety by mitigating rush-related accidents during charging.
Numerous companies worldwide have already initiated the creation of mobile charging ecosystems. SparkCharge, based in the US, has established a nationwide Charging as a Service (CaaS) network, collaborating with notable automobile manufacturers. In the US, EV Safe Charge is providing mobile EV charging solutions to individual consumers. In India, startups like Repos Energy, Urja Bio System, Hopcharge, and BatX Energies are also introducing mobile EV charging solutions.
Sources:
https://www.iea.org/energy-system/transport/electric-vehicles
https://usafacts.org/articles/how-many-electric-vehicle-charging-stations-are-there-in-the-us/
https://cleantechnica.com/2023/03/15/survey-shows-pathway-to-speeding-up-ev-adoption-in-rural-areas/
https://afdc.energy.gov/files/u/publication/evse_cost_report_2015.pdf
https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a32069151/blink-roadside-mobile-charger/
https://evsafecharge.com/mobile-ev-charging-stations/
https://www.iea.org/reports/global-ev-outlook-2023/trends-in-charging-infrastructure