Automaker Stellantis has announced its collaboration with San Francisco-based swappable electric vehicle (EV) battery developer, Ample, to address concerns related to range anxiety and long charge times. The partnership aims to introduce swappable battery technology to Stellantis’ rental EV fleet, providing a solution for quickly replacing depleted batteries with fully charged ones through Ample’s automated process.
Set to commence in Spain in 2024, the initial program will involve a fleet of 100 Fiat 500e models within Stellantis’ Free2move car-sharing service. The innovative approach aims to offer EV owners a swift battery replacement experience, lasting only a few minutes at one of Ample’s dedicated battery swapping stations.
While the financial terms of the partnership were not disclosed, the collaboration reflects a strategic move by Stellantis to cater to potential customers’ concerns and enhance the overall EV ownership experience. Ample, known for its 12 charge stations in San Francisco, plans to expand its presence with nine additional stations in Madrid, complementing the four already established.
Ample’s modular batteries, designed as drop-in replacements for original EV batteries, present a flexible solution that can seamlessly integrate into various electric vehicle models without requiring extensive reengineering of vehicle platforms. This aligns with Stellantis’ objective of adopting the technology across its fleet efficiently.
The move towards swappable battery technology echoes a broader trend within the electric vehicle industry, with companies like Ample, Nio, and Xpeng exploring quick battery swap solutions to alleviate concerns surrounding range anxiety and extended charging durations. Ample has previously partnered with Fisker and Uber, further highlighting the growing interest in this approach to charging infrastructure.
The neutral tone of the partnership announcement reflects the ongoing efforts within the automotive industry to address challenges associated with electric vehicle adoption, emphasizing practical solutions to enhance consumer confidence and convenience.
