eVOSS Kicked off and Proposes a Flexible Robotic Charging Device (RCD)
The percentage of newly registered electric vehicles (EVs) has steadily risen due to technological advancements that have made them more cost-effective, dependable, and environmentally friendly. As per the European Environment Agency, the proportion of new EV registrations experienced a notable increase, climbing from 10.7% in 2020 to 17.8% in 2021.
The current charging infrastructure faces significant challenges in placing more fixed charging stations, as it is neither flexible nor optimal, with charged vehicles occupying a charging car park for hours at a time. Furthermore, high implementation costs may constitute a considerable barrier to charge future EV fleets.
To address these issues, the eVOSS project, supported by EIT Urban Mobility, has emerged to propose a Robotic Charging Device (RCD) equipped with a high-capacity battery and one rapid DC charging plug that can provide flexible electric vehicle charging inside parking lots by travelling to the precise location where the EV is parked. Rather than relying on stationary charging stations, the initiative significantly reduces infrastructure costs by offering versatile and efficient charging with its RCD.
The proposed system offers remarkable flexibility by easily navigating through various parking areas, detecting parked electric vehicles (EVs) and initiating the charging procedure. In addition, eVOSS effectively solves the logistical problems posed by busy charging stations, even when parked EVs are already fully charged. This eliminates the need for users to search for free parking spaces after completing their charging sessions, providing them with comfort and relief.
A prototype called “Thomas” has already been developed by BaTTeRi, and eVOSS’s objective is to test it in Tel Aviv (Israel) and Thessaloniki (Greece) through technical evaluation and real user and client feedback. These tests will contribute to improving the RCD’s functionalities. Besides, extensive market research and a well-defined scalability plan will be done to ensure the product’s long-term sustainability and commercial success after the pilots.
The initiative aligns closely with the strategic objectives of EIT Urban Mobility, particularly in the areas of mobility and energy solutions, because it contributes to the competitiveness of EVs in the market. Additionally, by storing energy during off-peak hours and reducing electricity demand during peak times, eVOSS helps alleviate strain on the electric grid and promotes a more sustainable and cost-effective energy ecosystem.
The consortium is formed by CARNET, Centre for Research & Technology Hellas (CERTH), Major Development Agency Thessaloniki S.A., CityZone, OTO Parking SA and BaTTeRi.
