Autel Energy, renowned for its electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions, will begin production of the MaxiCharger 180kw–240kw DC Fast EV charger at its Greensboro, North Carolina plant later this month.
Why It Matters
The increasing adoption of EVs in the U.S. necessitates an extensive charging infrastructure. Autel’s strategic decision to initiate production in North Carolina can potentially lead to increased accessibility for EV users, thereby supporting the broader transition to sustainable transportation.
Key Points
- Autel is targeting an annual production of up to 5,000 DC fast chargers from this facility.
- Employment projection: 150 staff initially, expanding to 400 within five years.
- Significant renovations and modernizations have been made to the 200,000 sq. ft. Greensboro facility since its acquisition in May.
- The choice of Greensboro was influenced by the region’s support for novel energy technologies, a conducive business ambiance, and an adept workforce, as voiced by Frank Li, Chairman of Autel Intelligent Technology Corp., Ltd.
- The MaxiCharger complies with the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) funding program and adheres to the Federal Highway Administration Build America, Buy America stipulations.
- NEVI, a segment of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, sponsors state-led EV fast charger deployments, targeting a nationwide web of 500,000 chargers.
- Qualifications for NEVI funding encompass proximity to established corridors, DC power specifications adherence, and a capability to simultaneously charge four vehicles at 150 kW.
- Furthermore, the MaxiCharger provides comprehensive data collection, crucial for NEVI compliance, covering metrics such as station usage, dispensed energy, peak session power, and reliability.
Bottom Line
Autel Energy’s strategic production expansion in North Carolina signifies a promising stride towards enhancing the nation’s EV infrastructure, with the MaxiCharger poised to be a significant player in facilitating the U.S.’s shift towards green mobility.