Westfalia Technologies Inc., a provider of automated parking solutions, announced the launch of WEPLUG, an innovative automated dc fast-charging system designed to transform electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.
The patented technology operates from an overhead gantry, automatically locating and connecting to EVs, regardless of the charging port’s position or type, thereby maximizing infrastructure efficiency.
The WEPLUG charging system addresses several persistent challenges in the EV ecosystem. The overhead gantry, equipped with an advanced vision system, precisely positions and lowers the WEPLUG connector into an adapter manually inserted into the EV’s charging port by the driver when they leave their EV.
The adapter is available in different configurations to accommodate various makes and models of EVs. This eliminates a common point of failure in other sophisticated robotics solutions that bypass an adapter. It also offers a practical solution that saves substantial space compared to conventional EV charging options.
Unlike traditional charging solutions that require extensive electrical infrastructure and more room at every parking space, WEPLUG uses a single utility connection integrated into the gantry system to service multiple vehicles per installation. This innovative, compact approach reduces installation costs, electrical infrastructure requirements, and construction complexity for developers, property managers, and parking facility operators.
The system delivers 50-kW dc fast charging capability, bringing most EVs from low battery to approximately 80% capacity in around one hour or less, addressing critical downtime concerns for EV owners and fleet operators.
The WEPLUG solution is adaptable to numerous covered environments including:
- Automated parking systems in new developments
- Fleet and delivery vehicle facilities requiring continuous round-the-clock charging
- Conventional covered parking facilities including corporate lots, airports, and college campuses
- Larger car dealerships maintaining multiple electric vehicles
Filed Under: Charging, Technology News