Volkswagen on Friday revealed plans to make new flexible electric charging stations as the automaker continues its move toward battery-powered vehicles.
The German automaker, with plans to construct an electric vehicle production facility in Chattanooga by 2022, said the stations are based on the principle of a power bank and can charge up to four vehicles at the same time.
"The development of charging infrastructure will be a key factor in the success of e-mobility. The flexible fast charging station developed by [VW] Group Components can make a key contribution in this area," said Thomas Schmall, CEO of the automaker's components business.
The new flexible charging stations are to be produced at VW's Hanover, Germany, components plant starting in 2020, the company said. The station also can be used for the interim storage of eco-power, it said.
Schmall said the charging station is an element in the "end-to-end responsibility" by the components business for the EV's high-voltage battery – from the development of cell production competences to recycling.
Volkswagen said forecasts indicate that considerable demand for flexible fast charging stations is to be expected in connection with the ramp-up of electric vehicle production over the next few years.
Last week, VW said it would invest $800 million in Chattanooga and hire another 1,000 employees to make electric vehicles. The new facility is to be attached to the automaker's existing production plant at Enterprise South industrial park.