A Scottish start-up has begun trials of a revolutionary electric vehicle charging solution in the suburbs of London.
Using what creators Trojan Energy call a ‘lance’, consumers simply plug this directly into an outlet that sits flush with the pavement.
The flush design means they don’t take up unnecessary space as ‘street furniture’. They’re also safe, have been designed to avoid tripping and can handle the full weight of a car or person.
Once charged, EV owners can remove the lance with a key fob or smartphone and put it back in their car.
Trojan Energy says the lance is three-phase capable and can provide charge rates of up to 22kW.
A ‘cabinet’, connected to a three-phase supply, is required for every 15 charge points and resembles a typical junction box.
The technology is aimed at supporting those who have an EV yet cannot park it off street to charge at night.
At this stage, Trojan Energy has installed five charging points for a small group trial, but a full trial of 150 charge points will go live later in the year.
Working alongside London’s electricity power operator, UK Power Networks, Trojan has been able to manage the load presented with the uptake of EVs as more people charge at peak times.
Over 140 drivers have signed up to be part of a larger trial which will run from September 2021 to March 2022.
As well as reducing kerbside clutter, the innovative charging solution has been created to help reach Net Zero emissions targets.
“This project is a great example of how technology is being used to solve a real-world problem to ensure that our EV infrastructure fits in seamlessly in our local towns and cities,” said UK Transport Minister Rachel Maclean.
“This is crucial as we build back greener and encourage more people to make the switch, which is why I’m delighted this government is backing its delivery.”
