Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular, and with this rise comes the challenge of providing efficient and accessible charging solutions. Traditional charging methods often lead to power overloads and inefficient use of infrastructure, particularly in areas with high demand and limited power capacity. Enter sequential charging, an innovative approach that addresses these issues by charging vehicles one after another rather than simultaneously. (To learn more about how Sequential charging works and its advantages, read this article: Sequential Charging: A Smart Solution for Efficient EV Charging.)
This article delves into the applications of sequential charging, illustrating its potential to revolutionize the EV charging landscape.
Use Cases of Sequential Charging
Sequential charging is ideal for locations with many electric vehicles but limited charging infrastructure, and is well-suited for fleets with defined duty cycles, depots, and downtime. This technology efficiently manages the power supply, ensuring each vehicle gets charged without overwhelming the system. By multiplying the number of charging points that can serve multiple vehicles, sequential charging significantly reduces equipment installation costs—potentially by half. This resource optimization makes it particularly valuable in high-demand areas with constrained infrastructure. The use cases of sequential charging are as below:
Fleet Management
Efficient Operations: Sequential charging provides an efficient way for delivery or service fleets to manage their vehicle charging schedules. This reduces downtime and ensures that vehicles are ready for use without the need for substantial infrastructure investments. Take bus charging stations as an example: drivers can simply park their vehicles, connect the charger, and then leave the site without having to wait around. The system takes care of power distribution automatically. This way, the process is streamlined and efficient.
Scalability: Systems can be expanded to accommodate more vehicles as the fleet grows, providing a flexible solution for evolving needs.
(Source: Voltera)
Public Charging Stations
Maximized Utilization: Sequential charging ensures multiple users can charge their vehicles in a manageable and cost-effective way, maximizing the use of limited space and power capacity.
Demand Management: Helps manage peak demand periods, ensuring a reliable electricity supply and equitable access for all users.
(Source: U-POWER)
Corporate and Commercial Buildings
Gradual Daytime Charging: Employees’ vehicles can be gradually charged throughout the workday, preventing power overloads and optimizing energy usage by taking advantage of lower off-peak rates.
Enhanced Employee Benefits: Reliable and efficient EV charging can enhance job satisfaction and support corporate sustainability goals.
Residential Complexes
Overnight Charging: Sequential charging allows multiple residents to charge their EVs overnight without exceeding the building’s power capacity, ensuring balanced electricity distribution and avoiding costly electrical upgrades.
User Convenience: Systems can prioritize vehicles based on departure times or battery levels, offering a customized charging experience for residents.
Sequential charging offers a balanced solution to the challenges of power management, infrastructure limitations, and user convenience. By maximizing resource utilization and providing a more flexible charging experience, sequential charging systems are set to play a crucial role in the future of EV infrastructure.
The diverse use cases of sequential charging—from fleet management to public charging stations, corporate buildings, and residential complexes—this technology is adapting to diverse needs and constraints, demonstrating its versatility and efficiency.
ZEROVA is actively planning to implement sequential charging in their systems. Our DZ480kW power cabinet, which currently supports simultaneous charging for up to six vehicles, will be enhanced with sequential charging technology. This upgrade will allow up to 12 charging terminals to be connected and managed using AIoT (Artificial Intelligence of Things) technology, effectively doubling the capacity without significant infrastructure changes.
To learn more about how Sequential charging works and its advantages, read this article: Sequential Charging: A Smart Solution for Efficient EV Charging
In conclusion, sequential charging is not just a technological advancement; it’s a practical solution to real-world challenges in EV adoption. As this technology continues to evolve and integrate with smart city initiatives and renewable energy systems, we can expect even more innovative applications that will further accelerate the transition to sustainable transportation.