In a significant development, San Francisco-based startup Ample is set to bring its innovative modular electric vehicle battery swapping technology to Mitsubishi Fuso’s electric trucks this winter. This marks the first time that Ample’s technology will be used for large vehicles, a major milestone in the company’s journey towards making sustainable transportation a reality.
A New Era in Electric Vehicle Battery Swapping
Ample’s technology has been gaining traction in recent times, with its small-scale deployments for ride-hail vehicles in San Francisco and Madrid. However, the partnership with Mitsubishi Fuso represents a significant expansion of Ample’s scope and ambition. The company’s next-generation swapping stations have improved from earlier models and can change out a battery in just five minutes. With DC fast charging, it could take anywhere from 15 minutes to nearly an hour to get a full charge.
Mitsubishi Fuso’s Electric Trucks: A Perfect Fit for Ample’s Technology
The Mitsubishi Fuso eCanter, a light commercial truck, is the perfect platform for Ample’s modular electric vehicle battery swapping technology. The eCanter is designed for last-mile delivery and other urban transportation needs, making it an ideal candidate for Ample’s innovative solution.
Initial Deployment in Japan: A Key Milestone
Ample has announced that its initial deployment of swapping stations will be in Kyoto, Japan. While the exact number of stations has not been disclosed, it is reported to be "more than one station" for the initial deployment. This marks a significant expansion of Ample’s presence in Asia and demonstrates the company’s commitment to making electric vehicle battery swapping a reality globally.
Partnership with Japanese Energy Company Eneo
Ample has already been working with Japanese energy company Eneo on deploying swapping infrastructure for fleets. The partnership with Mitsubishi Fuso builds on this work, demonstrating Ample’s growing presence in the Asian market and its ability to collaborate with major players in the industry.
The Future of Electric Vehicle Battery Swapping
As the world shifts towards sustainable transportation, electric vehicle battery swapping is becoming an increasingly important solution. While it has not gained much traction in the US, where most innovation is directed at charging stations, other parts of the world like China are embracing this technology with open arms.
Nio’s Ambitious Plans for Battery Swapping
Chinese EV maker Nio has already been building out swapping stations and has a target of reaching 2,300 battery swapping stations globally by the end of 2023. Ample’s co-founder, John de Souza, has spoken about what it takes to scale electric vehicle battery swapping, highlighting the importance of partnerships, company culture, and investors who understand the potential of this technology.
Ample’s Co-Founder on Scaling EV Battery Swapping
In an interview with TechCrunch, John de Souza discussed the challenges and opportunities of scaling electric vehicle battery swapping. He emphasized the need for strong partnerships, a clear vision, and a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances. De Souza also highlighted the importance of company culture in driving innovation and success.
Conclusion
Ample’s partnership with Mitsubishi Fuso marks a significant milestone in the development of electric vehicle battery swapping technology. As the world shifts towards sustainable transportation, this solution is becoming increasingly important. With its innovative next-generation swapping stations and expanding presence in Asia, Ample is well-positioned to make a meaningful impact in the industry.
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