Worldwide, sales of light-duty passenger electric vehicles (EVs) are growing. And major auto manufacturers have pledged new EV models in the next few years, increasing the competition.
As EVs become more competitive, their growth will continue.
But, one of the biggest challenges for EV adoption — aside from customer behavior change— is the expensive charging infrastructure for EVs.
However, new battery-swapping technology may become a viable alternative to charging stations.
Ample, a California-based startup, is positioning itself as a solution for fleet and commercial vehicles.
The company builds battery swapping stations that are about the size of two parking spots making them convenient for gas stations, grocery stores, or the side of the road. These stations use automation to remove the car’s existing battery and replace it with a fully-charged battery.
EV drivers pull into the swapping station, and a robotic arm exchanges spent batteries with newly-charged, modular batteries in about 10 minutes which is currently faster than most charging stations. And, because fleets are often comprised of vehicles with different range requirements, Ample’s unique modular battery design allows fleet owners to only pay for the battery they need.
Ample’s employees believe that their diversity – employees come from 24 different countries and speak 14 languages – fosters their innovation. They describe themselves as “a team of technologists, designers, and environmental enthusiasts who believe that this problem is among one of the most critical challenges of our time.”
