Volkswagen Group Components has revealed details of its mobile charging robot prototype for electric vehicles (EVs).
A video released by the German automotive OEM showcases the concept, which sees EVs charged autonomously using robots and mobile power units.
As previously reported by Robotics & Innovation, the charging robot steers a mobile charging unit independently to an EV before opening the charging socket flap, connecting the plug and decoupling it.
The robot is fitted with cameras, laser scanners and ultrasonic sensors to enable charging to take place without any human involvement, thus enabling it to bring EV charging to locations such as underground or multi-storey car parks.
The prototype will be further developed with VW aiming to integrate the innovation into its wider charging infrastructure strategy, which includes a quick-charging station, scheduled for launch early this year, and a complete DC charging family.
Thomas Schmall, CEO of Volkswagen Group Components, said: “Setting up an efficient charging infrastructure for the future is a central task that challenges the entire sector.
“We are developing solutions to help avoid costly standalone measures. The mobile charging robot and our flexible quick-charging station are just two of these solutions.”
