Charging infrastructure, or the lack thereof, has been a major impediment in more people around the world embracing the electric vehicle technology. Volkswagen Group, which is in the forefront of adopting EV tech across its product range has previewed prototypes of a concept that could solve this issue to an extent.
Volkswagen Group Components’ mobile charging robots will drive themselves to the electric car that needs charging once it is started via an app or Car 2 X communication. From opening the charging socket flap to connecting the plug to decoupling – the entire charging process happens occurs without any human interaction.
The mobile robot brings a trailer in the form of a mobile energy storage device to the vehicle and connects them; it then uses this energy storage device to charge the battery of the electric vehicle. This means you don’t need to search for an electric outlet and turn any parking space into a charging station.
The mobile energy storage device stays with the vehicle during the whole charging process. The robot, in the meantime, charges other electric vehicles. Once the charging service is complete, the robot collects the energy storage device and brings it back to the charging station.
“A ubiquitous charging infrastructure is and remains a key factor in the success of electric mobility. Our charging robot is just one of several approaches, but is undoubtedly one of the most visionary,” says Thomas Schmall, Volkswagen Group Components’ CEO.
With its integrated charging electronics, the energy storage device allows for DC quick charging with up to 50 kW on the vehicle. The robot is fitted with cameras, laser scanners and ultrasonic sensors, allowing it to carry out the charging process completely autonomously while moving around freely in the parking area, recognising possible obstacles and reacting to these. Depending on the size of the parking area or the underground car park, several charging robots can be employed simultaneously so that several vehicles can be attended to.
Volkswagen hopes this and other similar charging concepts will help the brand expand its charging infrastructure over the next few years.
2018 Lincoln Navigator: Large and in charge
The all-new Navigator has everything in its locker to become the best three-row luxury SUV money can buy. But first, can someone please explain those curious Lincoln/McConaughey commercials to me?
September 07, 2018Review: Kia Soul EV
Kia's characterful Soul SUV has been updated with only an electric powertrain. We find out what it's like
July 13, 2020Car care tips: Prepare your car for long-term storage and avoid costly repairs!
Planning on going on holiday? Then follow these easy steps to protect your ride before you set off!
July 10, 2019Jeep Compass: If you can dream it…
Jeep’s new Renegade-based 2017 Compass is a compact crossover slotting in neatly between the Renegade and Cherokee in the company’s line-up. this competitive little car will battle it out with segment stalwarts like the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sorento when it arrives in the UAE this November. We test it in Portugal…
June 23, 20172018 Camry will make your eyes pop out!
Toyota’s all-new eighth generation family saloon is quite the looker
January 10, 2017All-new 2022 Range Rover officially revealed
The quintessential luxury SUV gets a restrained yet comprehensive revamp for its fifth generation
October 27, 2021Lotus Emira arrives in Dubai as part of global tour
The last model from the British sportscar maker to be powered by an internal combustion engine will be on display in the UAE this month
October 12, 2021Rolls-Royce teases its first fully electric car, the Spectre
Expected to be on sale by end of 2023, new model heralds the brand’s full electrification by 2030
September 30, 2021Duckhams launches lubricants range in the UAE
British brand announces Emirates for Universal Tyres as its exclusive distributor
August 29, 2021This Ford Puma ST Gold Edition was created with help from fans
It’s the first-ever Ford Performance model to wear a crowd-sourced design
June 29, 2021