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Kempower, North America’s fastest-growing electric vehicle DC charging manufacturer, has formed a strategic alliance with the Future Renewable Electric Energy Delivery and Management (FREEDM) Systems Center at North Carolina State University. This collaboration marks Kempower’s inaugural university partnership in North America, building on its existing ties with three European institutions. The partnership aims to drive advancements in electric system reliability, energy management, and charging technologies, with a particular emphasis on multi-megawatt solutions for heavy-duty and off-highway vehicles. By leveraging FREEDM’s cutting-edge research facilities, Kempower seeks to refine its offerings to meet evolving industry demands and foster the next wave of electrification.
Key Highlights
- Strategic Focus: Joint research on electric system reliability, energy management, and multi-megawatt charging for heavy-duty vehicles.
- Innovation Driver: Partnership informs next-generation DC charging technologies to enhance Kempower’s market-leading solutions.
- Talent Pipeline: Leverages the Triangle region’s robust university ecosystem to build emerging industry leaders.
- Research Edge: Utilizes FREEDM’s unique Medium Voltage lab for high-power charging advancements.
- Global Impact: Supports the expanding EV movement by addressing technology gaps and workforce needs worldwide.
Partnership Details and Research Priorities
The collaboration between Kempower and the FREEDM Systems Center will concentrate on expanding industry knowledge through targeted research initiatives. Key areas include enhancing the reliability of electric systems and optimizing energy management protocols for DC charging infrastructures. This effort is especially geared toward developing multi-megawatt charging station technology, which is critical for electrifying heavy-duty and off-highway vehicles. Such innovations are vital as the demand for high-power, efficient charging solutions surges across sectors like trucking, construction, and marine applications.
Kempower’s North American headquarters in Durham, North Carolina, was strategically chosen to capitalize on the area’s renowned talent pool and proximity to top-tier universities. This location facilitates seamless integration with local research ecosystems, enabling Kempower to access a wealth of emerging engineers and researchers. The partnership not only accelerates product development but also strengthens the company’s ability to deliver user-centric, scalable charging systems designed by EV drivers for EV drivers.
Leadership Insights on Collaboration
Kempower North America President Monil Malhotra emphasized the partnership’s role in innovation, stating, “We’re excited to embark on this partnership with the strong research talent at the FREEDM Systems Center and NC State to continue innovating groundbreaking technology.” He highlighted the growing complexity of the DC charging market, underscoring how university collaborations are indispensable for creating state-of-the-art solutions that align with customer expectations.
From the FREEDM perspective, Executive Director Dr. Iqbal Husain described the alliance as a foundational step toward long-term strategic synergy. “The FREEDM Center collaboration with Kempower is the beginning of an innovative and strategic relationship,” he noted. He pointed to the center’s rare capabilities, including one of the few U.S. universities with a Medium Voltage lab, which will directly support Kempower’s high-power charging initiatives. This expertise extends to broader electrification technologies, benefiting all FREEDM industry partners.
Broader Implications for EV Industry Growth
University research partnerships like this one are pivotal for Kempower’s global strategy, spanning both Europe and North America. They play a crucial role in pinpointing future technology and energy requirements while nurturing a robust pipeline of skilled professionals. As the electric vehicle sector expands rapidly, the need for innovative researchers, engineers, and scalable solutions intensifies. This collaboration exemplifies how industry leaders and academic powerhouses can unite to propel the worldwide EV movement forward, ensuring reliable, efficient, and accessible charging infrastructure for all.
By focusing on modular, scalable systems and world-class software, Kempower continues to position itself as a frontrunner in e-mobility. The company’s commitment to local sourcing in Finland and the U.S. further enhances its sustainability credentials, making it a preferred partner for stakeholders seeking comprehensive EV charging solutions.
About Kempower
Kempower designs and manufactures reliable, user-friendly DC fast-charging solutions for electric vehicles. Its vision centers on delivering the world’s most desired EV charging experiences globally. With product development and production in Finland and the U.S., Kempower sources most materials locally and serves diverse e-mobility segments, including cars, trucks, buses, machines, and marine applications. The company’s modular systems and EV-driver-focused software prioritize superior user experiences. Kempower is listed on the Nasdaq Helsinki Stock Exchange. Learn more at kempower.com.
About FREEDM Systems Center
The FREEDM Systems Center, an NSF Engineering Research Center within North Carolina State University’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, specializes in medium voltage power electronics, power systems, and electric transportation technologies. Research spans device design, packaging, and application development, yielding innovations like medium voltage solid-state transformers, microgrid controllers, novel electric machine topologies, machine learning for grid stability, and AI-based load forecasting. Facilities include multiple hardware-in-the-loop systems, a 5,000-square-foot high-bay lab rated for 1 MW at 15 kV, and motor dynamometers. Industry partners gain from federal funding, early IP access, and a steady stream of graduates. Visit freedm.ncsu.edu for details.
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