30.3.2012 ABB launches affordable rapid EV charger

ABB has launched the Terra Smart Connect (SC), a breakthrough product that will significantly improve the business case for installing electric-vehicle fast chargers in the UK and throughout Europe.

The Terra SC from ABB, a leading power and automation technology group, will be available for delivery later this year, starting at the breakthrough price of less than £8,500 for small volume orders.

With the ability to fully charge an electric car in 30-120 minutes, the Terra SC is a cost-effective direct-current (DC) charger specifically designed for convenient fast charging in commercial and office areas. The Terra SC can charge the battery of currently available electric cars from 30% to 80% in less than half an hour.

Despite its breakthrough price, the Terra SC comes standard with outdoor stainless steel housing, a full-colour 8 inch intuitive touch-screen user interface and all the smart connectivity features that ABB's Terra chargers are known for. It is quick and easy to install at almost any location due to its ultra-thin design and simple floor and wall-mount connections.

Importantly, the Terra SC – unlike some other DC fast chargers – uses the widely available 3-phase 32A input, which eliminates the need for a costly grid connection upgrade.

"The launch of the Terra SC demonstrates our commitment to deliver the optimal charging solution for every possible location in the network – both in terms of functionality and affordability. With its breakthrough price, low commissioning costs, easy installation and smart design features, the Terra SC creates a much more compelling case for installing EV fast chargers at many more locations throughout Europe – providing a strong boost to the development of electric mobility," said Hans Streng, Senior Vice President and General Manager of ABB's Product Group EV Charging Infrastructure.

Connected to the internet, the Terra SC comes with a full range of connectivity features, including remote assistance, management and servicing and smart software upgradeability. Its key optional features include RFiD and PIN code authorization, a billing interface for parking operators and a web-based statistics module with data per user to support energy usage reporting. ABB's connectivity suite supports all existing and future connection standards within the same network.

Convenient charging with the Terra SC is therefore perfectly suited for company car parks, fleet operators, (off street) parking operators, rental companies, car dealerships, EV infrastructure service providers, roadside meeting places and shopping malls. ABB will release a standard version with a 20 kW DC charger and a dedicated company fleet version, which also features two integrated alternating current (AC) connections for 8-hour charging, allowing three cars to be charged simultaneously.

The growing number of electric vehicles is driving a global market opportunity for charging solutions including sophisticated monitoring systems and software to support the electric grid. Next Green Car's Zap-Map reveals that there are now more than 2,000 charging points throughout the UK – although mostly slower chargers there are around 35 rapid DC chargers available for public use.