Shenzhen BYD Daimler New Technology Co., Ltd., the Chinese joint venture between Daimler and BYD, a Chinese automobile manufacturer based in Shenzhen, and ABB, a multinational corporation operating mainly in the power and automation technology areas, have agreed on the supply of fast chargers for BDNT’s battery electric car DENZA. According to ABB, this will be the world’s largest EV fast charger network.
The wall-mounted chargers will have a number of innovations designed for user convenience and safety, such as a mobile app that allows remote monitoring and control of charging sessions, with the option of charging status change notifications. First deliveries are expected in mid-2014. The charging solution will be sold through DENZA dealerships along with the vehicle.
The Chinese government has introduced a direct current (DC) fast charging “GBT” standard to encourage technical innovation and stimulate market acceptance of EVs. The urban charging infrastructure will be a key driver for EV adoption. The GBT standard will give Chinese consumers the opportunity to conveniently charge their vehicles at home or at public charging stations. Public DC fast charging is expected to be rolled out in China in the near future.
“We are honored to be a partner in this venture to move urban transportation forward in a more sustainable way. By combining car sales with fast chargers, DENZA is taking a bold step to address a key obstacle for potential buyers of EVs,” said Ulrich Spiesshofer, CEO of ABB Group. “ABB’s EV charging solutions have been expanding rapidly worldwide as the underlying technology combines our key strengths in power electronics, software, service and power distribution.”
The fully electric DENZA car is designed for journeys of more than 200 kilometers (125 miles) and is among the first long-range EVs to go on sale in China. Market research shows that consumers value long-range EVs, but expect short charging times. DENZA will offer its customers the convenience of fast charging at home, at work or at public charging stations.
As described in Daimler’s press release, the battery-electric DENZA vehicle will see its world premiere at the Auto China trade fair in Beijing in April 2014. Market introduction is slated for this year as announced earlier. In Beijing, the first DENZA dealership will open its doors mid of this year. Further dealerships are built up simultaneously in Shanghai and Shenzhen.The official goal of the joint venture: DENZA will be the safest and most reliable electric vehicle—designed and engineered in China, for China.