DC technology only and the promise of a space reduction up to 60 per cent. Grid-eMotion Fleet is the name of the solution launched by Hitachi ABB Power Grids joint-venture for large-scale public transport and commercial fleets of electric vehicles. It consists in a scalable, modular and fully customizable solution for charging large fleets of EVs, concentrating most of the charging equipment at a central location.

The joint-venture was announced earlier this month, when ABB completed the divestment of 80.1 percent of its Power Grids business to Hitachi.

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Grid-eMotion Fleet: a charging-system based approach

ABB is working on EV charging solutions since 2013, where the Swiss company first introduced innovative flash-charging eBus solutions in Geneva and Nantes (known as TOSA system). 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, which helps to accelerate the future of smart mobility», the JV points out.

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.

Grid-eMotion Fleet abb hitachi

The solution, Hitachi ABB Power Grids explains, comes in standard containers that integrate the grid connection and charging systems all together. Grid-eMotion Fleet uses 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 AC grid, the pioneering solution brings a 60 percent reduction in space required for large-scale EV fleet charging, whilst the depot cabling is reduced by 40 percent, according to the supplier.

Grid-eMotion Fleet, digital analysis in the spotlight

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 optimized.

“The Grid-eMotion Fleet launch is a game-changer for anyone managing public transport and commercial EV fleets,” says Niklas Persson, Managing Director of the Grid Integration business unit at 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.”

Highlights

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