Data center innovation helps fast-charging networks fix weak grid supply issues

• ABB uses data center power technology to address grid supply challenges
• Comprehensive power supply solution combines ABB Terra 360 fast charging stations with Megaflex DPA UPS system
• Innovative solution developed in partnership with customer AMAG of Switzerland

ABB has partnered with car dealership group AMAG of Switzerland to develop an innovative electric vehicle charging solution that compensates for grid supply weaknesses. AMAG is installing ABB Terra 360 charging stations and energy management system at 13 locations across Switzerland. At some locations, the charging stations will be supplied with power via an innovative MegaFlex DPA UPS system that levels out peaks in power demand, ensuring fast charging can continue even when the grid supply struggles.
 
Frank Böhmerle, Chief Technology Officer, AMAG Automobil & Motoren AG, said:

"Even though the usual maximum charging power for e-vehicles available today is 150 to 270 kW, we expect the standard for passenger cars to rise to 350 to 360 kW in the coming years, resulting in a massive reduction in charging time. With our network of locations close to freeways, we offer an attractive addition to the charging network.”

ABB’s Terra 360 provides a maximum output power of 360 kW and can charge two cars simultaneously. The Terra 360 provides the maximum optimized power to any vehicle at any time. When an EV battery approaches full charge and charging slows, the Terra 360 detects this, reduces charging power and provides more power to the other vehicle.

To compensate for any local grid supply challenges, at some locations the Terra 360 connects to the grid via a 500kW ABB Megaflex DPA UPS system. The “peak-shaving” solution was developed in partnership with ABB’s Center of Excellence for uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems in Quartino, Switzerland, using technology developed to guarantee a stable power supply for data centers. During fast charging, the MegaFlex’s 150 kWh lithium-ion energy storage system covers peaks that exceed the utility grid’s available power.

Adrian Wachholz, Managing Director ABB E-mobility AG Switzerland, said: “AMAG's commitment to decarbonization has embraced the use of innovative technologies and we appreciate the close cooperation with them. Our technology leadership in E-Mobility goes beyond the charging station infrastructure to address grid supply challenges. The comprehensive solution developed for AMAG includes the distribution, peak shaving system, battery, and energy management system.”

ABB (ABBN: SIX Swiss Ex) is a leading global technology company that energizes the transformation of society and industry to achieve a more productive, sustainable future. By connecting software to its electrification, robotics, automation and motion portfolio, ABB pushes the boundaries of technology to drive performance to new levels. With a history of excellence stretching back more than 130 years, ABB’s success is driven by about 105,000 talented employees in over 100 countries. www.abb.com

ABB’s Electrification BusinessArea: Electrifying the world in a safe, smart and sustainable way, ABB Electrification is a global technology leader in electrical distribution and management from source to socket. As the world’s demand for electricity grows, our 50,000+ employees across 100 countries collaborate with customers and partners to transform how people connect, live and work. We develop innovative products, solutions and digital technologies that enable energy efficiency and a low carbon society across all sectors. By applying global scale with local expertise, we shape and support global trends, deliver excellence for customers and power a sustainable future for society. go.abb/electrification

ABB E-mobility is enabling zero-emission mobility as a global leader in electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions for a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. We are a partner of choice for the world’s biggest EV OEMs and nationwide EV charging network operators, offering the widest portfolio of EV charging solutions from smart chargers for the home to high-power chargers for the highway stations of the future, solutions for the electrification of fleets and charging for electric buses and trucks. With ~1,500 employees around the world, ABB E-mobility has sold more than one million EV chargers across more than 85 markets, including over 50,000 DC fast chargers. https://e-mobility.abb.com