Shanghai deploys mobile charging robots on highways

Shanghai has introduced intelligent mobile charging robots at several expressway service areas leading to the city. This innovative solution aims to alleviate the common problem of long queues for charging new energy vehicles (NEVs) during peak travel periods.

The State Grid Shanghai Municipal Electric Power Co. reports that these robots, deployed at service areas along expressways such as the G60 Shanghai-Kunming Expressway, can charge NEVs to 80% capacity within 30 minutes, right at the parking space. This development is expected to significantly improve the convenience and efficiency of charging for NEV owners traveling during the holiday.

The introduction of these charging robots comes as a response to the growing popularity of NEVs among car owners, which has led to increased demand for charging facilities, especially during major holidays. Currently, Shanghai's 26 highway service areas are equipped with a total of 144 charging piles.

Last year's National Day holiday period saw an average of 1.68 million vehicles per day using Shanghai's highway service areas, with a total charging volume of 267,300 kilowatt-hours. For this year's holiday, authorities project a 30% year-on-year increase in charging volume.

This technological advancement in NEV charging infrastructure reflects China's commitment to supporting the growing electric vehicle market and improving the travel experience for NEV owners. The mobile charging robots are expected to reduce waiting times and increase the overall charging capacity at these busy service areas.

As China continues to promote the adoption of new energy vehicles as part of its environmental and technological development goals, such innovations in charging infrastructure are crucial. They not only address immediate practical concerns but also contribute to the long-term sustainability of NEV usage for long-distance travel.