Voltpost, a startup based in New York, has successfully launched Michigan’s first lamppost charger for electric vehicles. This innovative solution involves retrofitting existing street light poles with modular EV chargers, eliminating the need for costly infrastructure upgrades or bulky hardware.
The first publicly available lamppost charger in Michigan can be found at the American Center for Mobility’s campus in Ypsilanti Township. This marks a significant milestone for Voltpost, as it paves the way for more installations in strategic locations across Detroit later this year. The company also recently unveiled its first lamppost charger in Oak Park, Illinois.
Voltpost’s CEO and co-founder, Jeffrey Prosserman, expressed excitement about the deployment of the charger, emphasizing the importance of making EV charging accessible to all communities. The collaboration with ACM provides a solid foundation for a cleaner and more connected mobility future in Detroit, a hub of transportation innovation.
The lamppost EV charger is designed to accommodate up to four retractable cables and can power two or four EVs simultaneously. Installation is quick and efficient, taking under an hour to complete. However, it’s important to note that the chargers rely on existing public lighting infrastructure, which may not support high-speed charging.
While the lamppost charger operates at a Level 2 charging capacity, it still offers a convenient solution for EV owners who need to park for an extended period. Whether attending a movie or running errands, drivers can easily plug into a street light charger without the need for expensive DC fast charging infrastructure.
Voltpost’s partnership with AT&T has further enhanced the functionality of the lamppost chargers by enabling remote monitoring and fault detection through wireless data services. This connectivity ensures that the chargers remain operational and efficient at all times.
Overall, Voltpost’s innovative approach to EV charging demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and accessibility in urban environments. By repurposing existing infrastructure, the company is helping to build a more sustainable transportation ecosystem for the future.