Ford is developing a prototype robot charging station that drivers operate via their smartphone from inside their electric vehicle.
The technology could enable disabled drivers to stay in the car while charging, or they could leave the car while the robot does all the work. For most people, filling a car with fuel, or charging an electric vehicle is a simple task. But for disabled drivers, people with reduced mobility and older people it can be a significant challenge.
Disabled drivers have already identified ease of charging as a key purchase consideration for electric vehicles (a recent survey in the UK showed that 61% of disabled drivers would consider buying an electric vehicle only if charging was made more accessible).
Ford is testing the robot charging station as part of a research project to develop hands-free charging solutions for electric vehicles and fully automatic charging for autonomous vehicles.
Following initial lab testing, Ford researchers are now putting the robot charging station to the test in real-life situations. Once activated, the station cover slides open and the charging arm extends towards the inlet with the help of a tiny camera. For the trial, drivers were able to monitor the charge status via the FordPass app. (FordPass App, compatible with select smartphone platforms, is available via a download. The app enables a range of connected services, including checking on vehicle health, fuel levels and range, plus the remote locking and unlocking of doors. After charging, the arm retracts back into place.
In future, the robot charging station, custom-made by Dortmund University, in Germany, could be installed at disabled parking spaces, in car parks or at private homes. Further applications could include fast and efficient charging of company fleets. The technology could also support more powerful charging to charge vehicles in a much shorter time.
Looking ahead, Ford says the process could become fully automated, with minimal or no driver involvement. The driver would simply send the vehicle to the charging station, with the infrastructure ensuring it reaches and returns from its destination autonomously.
The research project complements Ford’s commitment to electrification. A follow-up project with the charging network provider IONITY will look to further improve the robot charging station.
Ford is also researching into robot charging solutions in combination with Automated Valet Parking.
Birger Fricke, research engineer, Research and Innovation Center, Ford of Europe, said: “Ford is committed to ensuring freedom of movement and right now refuelling or charging your vehicle can be a major problem for some drivers. The robot charging station could be an added convenience for some people but – absolutely essential for others.”
Angela Aben, employee communications, Ford of Europe, who uses a power-assisted wheelchair to gain more mobility and independence, said: “I stopped filling up my car myself years ago, because it became very strenuous. My husband does it for me. The introduction of a robot charging station would offer me a much greater level of independence.”
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