E-MOBILITY
Osprey’s modular
accessible bay design with load-balancing chargers
CHARGING AHEAD
The UK is facing challenges in creating an electric vehicle charging network that is accessible to all. Lewis Gardiner shares a plan for the way forward
T
he demand for electric vehicles continues to rise steadily in the UK, with more motorists buying an
EV last year than in the previous five years combined, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). That figure will only increase as
the nation prepares for the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel vehicle sales. With this rising demand must, of course, come a public charging infrastructure that is fit for purpose and easily accessible to everyone. When we talk about accessibility,
we mean the physical space, charger access and charger usability that is essential for wheelchair users and those with any type of reduced mobility, whether permanent or temporary (such as pregnancy). However, it’s important to remember that optimising these factors also makes the experience
14
www.engineerlive.com
better for all drivers manoeuvring around their car with a charging cable, or with children or shopping. One of the first challenges we face
is establishing a large supply of power to our sites. Even though electricity connections aren’t new, the process of installing chargers can still be
complicated due to the sheer amount of power that needs to be delivered and managed. A standard double-50kW rapid-
charger site will use a similar amount of electricity to the average Starbucks, while a larger multi-150kW hub can easily require the same amount of
Access and space is prioritised at Osprey’s two 75kW charging points in Cambourne, Cornwall
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44
