Global technology company Hitachi ABB Power Grids on Wednesday launched Grid-eMotion Fleet, a grid-to-plug electric vehicle (EV) charging system that delivers a step-change approach for public transport and commercial operators.
The smart mobility solution enables operators to efficiently scale up their operations and is expected to contribute to sustainable society for millions living in urban areas, claimed the company in a press statement.
The global technology leader has been pioneering EV charging solutions since 2013, where it first introduced innovative flash-charging eBus solutions in Geneva (Switzerland) and Nantes (France). Through close collaboration with transport operators, Hitachi ABB Power Grids has identified a market need for a more holistic approach to large-scale charging. The launch of Grid-eMotion Fleet marks a game-changing shift from a charger-product based approach to a charging-system based approach.
Hitachi ABB Power Grids is leveraging its world-class power systems capabilities together with Hitachi’s advanced digital technologies and proven track record of innovation in smart cities and sustainable mobility. The newly formed joint venture is pioneering a broader range of clean solutions for the global mobility market.
“The Grid-eMotion Fleet launch is a game-changer for anyone managing public transport and commercial EV fleets,” said Niklas Persson, Managing Director Grid Integration, Hitachi ABB Power Grids. “Grid-eMotion Fleet delivers unprecedented scalability, space savings and operational efficiency. The solution will accelerate the global uptake of safe, sustainable and smart mobility, whilst contributing to cleaner air and an enhanced quality of life for today’s generation and those to come.”
Integration of Grid Connection and Charging System The solution comes in standard containers that integrate the grid connection and charging systems together. Grid-eMotion Fleet uses direct current (DC) technology and can connect to any type of power network, removing the complexities of integrating AC-DC chargers into a system. Compared to a conventional connection to the alternating current (AC) grid, the solution brings a 60 per cent reduction in space required for large-scale EV fleet charging, while the depot cabling is reduced by 40 per cent. The fast-to-install solution harnesses renewable energy through grid integration, smart mobility, digital energy management system and incorporates insights from data analytics.
Grid-eMotion Fleet leverages Hitachi ABB Power Grids’ smart energy management solution e-mesh EMS to manage and enhance the complete charging infrastructure, calculate bus energy consumption and devise, plan and deliver effective services for passengers. Digital analysis monitors the battery life data, route data, traffic simulation and depot control to ensure that efficient power use, energy storage and overnight charging is optimised.
Globally, 80 per cent of municipal bus fleets are forecast to be electric by 2040. With more than 400,000 e-buses already in service today, and the number expected to grow to 2.3 million e-buses by 2040, operators now need solutions that go beyond the charger to help them connect seamlessly to the grid to power their expanding EV fleets. Hitachi ABB Power Grids supports the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the launch of Grid-eMotion Fleet will contribute to furthering progress in respect of SDGs 7 and 11.
