Volkswagen Group Components’ mobile charging robot concept has reached the prototype stage of its development programme.
A video released by the German automotive manufacturer (see above) showcases the concept, which is designed to provide fully autonomous charging of EVs in restricted parking areas.
As previously reported by CiTTi, a robot steers the charging unit independently to an EV before opening the charging socket flap, connecting the plug and decoupling it.
The technology is designed to enable charging to take place without human involvement in locations such as underground or multi-storey car parks.
The prototype will be further developed with VW aiming to integrate the innovation into its wider charging infrastructure strategy, which includes a quick-charging station, scheduled for launch early this year, and a complete DC charging family.
Thomas Schmall, CEO of Volkswagen Group Components, said: “Setting up an efficient charging infrastructure for the future is a central task that challenges the entire sector.
“We are developing solutions to help avoid costly standalone measures. The mobile charging robot and our flexible quick-charging station are just two of these solutions.”
