Lotus, the renowned British car manufacturer, has revealed a new electric car charging system at the Shanghai Motor Show that could change the game for the EV industry. The system, which reportedly delivers up to 500 kW, is a breakthrough for the industry, as few electric cars on the market today can accept such high levels of power.
The Lotus charging system is also automated, making it unique among the current crop of prototypes. The charging cable is revealed when the cover opens, and a robotic arm guides it into the car’s charging port with ease. The charging station is rumored to be on a track on the floor, which could allow the unit to move up and down the track to accommodate different EVs’ charging ports and parking situations.
Lotus currently has the charging system on display at the Shanghai show, where it is connected to the automaker’s Eletre electric SUV. While there is no official name for the charging system yet, the company has announced plans to launch 50 units across China for all EVs to use. However, there is no word on whether Lotus will offer the system in other areas, such as the UK.
Shock @lotuscars unveiling! But it's not a car – it's a robotic charging device which can top up any electric car at up to 500kW… pic.twitter.com/V82qgmG7MJ
— Autocar (@autocar) April 18, 2023
According to Autocar, the Lotus fast-charging system is expected to be rolled out as more Chinese EVs arrive in the next few years that can accept higher charging rates. The Lotus Eletre, for example, can charge at speeds of up to 420 kW, while Hyundai and Kia’s purpose-built EVs currently max out at 350 kW.
Lotus’ breakthrough charging system is a major step forward for the EV industry and could pave the way for faster, more convenient charging solutions for electric cars. As the industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see more innovative solutions like this from automakers around the world.
