Lotus unveils automated robotic 500kW EV charger

Lotus has unveiled its idea of future electric vehicle (EV) charging at the Shanghai Motor Show, a robotic charger that can reportedly deliver 500kW of charging speed.

The system was demonstrated on the carmaker’s new Eletre SUV which saw the charger’s robotic arm extend outward and connect with the vehicle’s port automatically.

A name has yet to be determined for Lotus’ new helping hand, but it will apparently be rolled out across China as part of a 50 unit-strong fleet. There are no reports of the charger making further afield at this time.

It’s fast 500kW charging speed can also supply an EV with 80 per cent charge in as little as 12 minutes too.

The fastest charger in New Zealand is currently rated at 300kW which can add up to 400km to certain electric cars’ range in about 15 minutes. However, just four of these chargers can be found across the country.

So a 500kW EV charger like the one from Lotus would certainly bring that time down significantly while offering the convenience of plugging it in itself.