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Estonia launches EV charging network using ABB technologyMar 01, 2013 (Datamonitor via COMTEX) -- Estonia has launched fast-charging network for electric vehicles, or EV, using technology provided by ABB Ltd, a power and automation technology group. The network has 165 web-connected direct current, or DC, fast chargers, supplied and built by ABB. The chargers are installed in urban areas with more than 5,000 inhabitants, and on major roads throughout the country. The fast-charging stations comply with the CHAdeMO charging standard and can be used for charging vehicles with DC of up to 50kW as well as with alternating current (AC) of up to 22kW. "ABB is delighted to have built the world's first nationwide electric fast-charging network in Estonia," said Ulrich Spiesshofer, head of ABB's Discrete Automation and Motion division. "Having a nationwide fast-charging network will encourage motorists to switch to electric vehicles and it will motivate other countries to invest in their own charging infrastructure." "The fact that recharging is so easy is one of the main reasons more and more Estonians will decide in favor of electric cars in future," said Estonia's Minister of the Environment, Keit Pentus-Rosimannus. "Our entire transport policy should be based on the notion that environmentally friendly travel is the cheapest and simplest option there is." ABB won the contract in 2011 and completed the network in six months. The contract includes a five-year agreement to provide technical network operating support services for the chargers, which are connected to the central system via an Internet connection, as well as backbone IT architecture. The commercial operation to serve the Estonian EV drivers is handled by local third parties, and is based on a payment platform from parking industry. http://www.datamonitor.com Republication or redistribution, including by framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without prior written consent. Datamonitor shall not be liable for errors or delays in the content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] |