ABB supplies fast chargers for Dutch EV project

ABB has been selected by Fastned to supply chargers for more than 200 electric vehicle fast-charging stations in the Netherlands. The project will place an EV fast charger within 50 kilometres for all Dutch residents.

More than 200 Fastned stations will be installed along Dutch highways, each equipped with several multi-standard fast chargers, such as the 50 kW Terra 52 and Terra 53 models, which can charge electric vehicles in 15-30 minutes.

The Fastned fast-charging station.

The first ABB Terra fast chargers will be delivered in September 2013; completion of the Fastned stations - which will have solar canopies - is expected by 2015.

“Fastned chose ABB for its proven expertise in deploying and managing nationwide EV charging networks,” said Ulrich Spiesshofer, Executive Committee Member responsible for Discrete Automation and Motion. “ABB provides the chargers and industry-leading software solutions for remote servicing as well as connectivity to subscriber management and payment systems.”

Fastned charging station locations throughout the Netherlands.

Each web-connected ABB fast charger has a range of connectivity features, such as remote assistance, management and servicing and smart software upgrades. The multi-standard design supports all fast-charging standards and protocols such as CCS and CHAdeMO. ABB says this is critical to maintain compatibility between rapidly evolving cars and chargers in years to come, and will allow Fastned to maintain a reliable service and upgrade its network as the technology evolves.

“This countrywide network of locations will lay the basis for the commercially viable development of e-mobility,” said Bart Lubbers, one of Fastned’s founders. “I foresee a race towards faster charging and larger batteries throughout the car industry.”

The Netherlands is the most populous country to roll out a nationwide fast-charging network. Fast chargers will be located a maximum of 50 km apart along all highways and will be capable of serving EVs offered by all major car brands from Europe, Asia and the USA.