Electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in the United States has always been a topic of discussion, with many pointing out that it is not yet where it needs to be. However, there is some good news on the horizon as the deployment of EV chargers is increasing, according to a recent article on InsideEVs.
A recent video from the Out of Spec YouTube channel showcased a unique solution to fill in some of the gaps in charging infrastructure: mobile DC fast chargers. These chargers can be incredibly useful, especially for those who push the limits of their EVs like the content creators at Out of Spec who own an EV test track.
In the video, Kyle Conner from Out of Spec demonstrates the process of fast charging a mobile fast charger for the first time. The device, called Charge Rigs Flexx, features a large enclosure with batteries and a DC fast charger. With 120 kilowatt-hours of battery capacity and the ability to charge and discharge at 120 kilowatts, it can fully charge an EV with a large battery or provide multiple top-ups.
The Charge Rigs Flexx can be charged with both DC and AC power, making it versatile for different charging scenarios. In the video, Kyle takes the charger to an EVgo fast-charging station and successfully charges it to full capacity, despite a minor bug that shows a 99% state of charge for a while.
Who Are Portable Fast Chargers For?
Portable fast chargers like the Charge Rigs Flexx are targeted towards businesses that require quick vehicle charging without relying on permanent infrastructure. This includes fleet operations, construction sites, emergency response teams, and event venues. The ability to slow-charge the batteries overnight off a standard plug adds to the convenience of these mobile chargers.
Tesla has also introduced its own version of portable chargers to address crowding at Supercharger stations during peak travel times. Charge Rigs is not the only player in this space, with competitors like SparkCharge offering a range of off-grid charging solutions, including trailer-mounted systems and smaller, more portable options.
Roadside assistance companies like AAA are constantly looking for innovative solutions to help stranded drivers get back on the road quickly and efficiently. One of the latest partnerships that has caught the eye of the EV community is with SparkCharge, a company that specializes in mobile charging solutions for electric vehicles.
In a recent collaboration, AAA has teamed up with SparkCharge to provide on-demand mobile charging services for EV drivers who find themselves with a depleted battery and no nearby charging station in sight. This partnership aims to address the growing concern among EV owners about range anxiety and the fear of being stranded with no way to recharge their vehicles.
The key to this partnership is SparkCharge’s innovative technology, specifically their Charge Rigs unit. This portable charging unit is compact, lightweight, and easy to deploy, making it the perfect solution for roadside assistance providers like AAA. With the Charge Rigs unit on hand, AAA technicians can quickly and easily deliver a boost of energy to stranded EV drivers, allowing them to get back on the road in no time.
While mobile chargers like the Charge Rigs unit may not solve all of America’s charging woes, they are certainly a step in the right direction. These devices offer a convenient and reliable solution for specific use cases, such as emergency roadside assistance for EV owners.
For those interested in learning more about mobile chargers and the Charge Rigs unit in particular, there is a recent Out of Spec video that provides a detailed overview of this technology. The video showcases the capabilities of the Flexx mobile charger and highlights how it can be a game-changer for EV drivers in need of a quick recharge.
Overall, the partnership between roadside assistance companies like AAA and SparkCharge is a promising development for the EV industry. By leveraging innovative technology and strategic collaborations, these companies are working together to ensure that stranded EV drivers have access to the support they need to stay on the road and continue their journey with peace of mind.
For more information on mobile DC fast charging trailers and other EV-related news, readers can contact the author Tim Levin at Tim.Levin@InsideEVs.com.