ZipCharge launched a new charging product for electric vehicles that may be able convince those with range anxiety to get rid of their gas cars. At the Cop26 climate summit, ZipCharge Go, a British startup introduced a powerbank that can charge EVs. It is about the same size as a suitcase, and it weighs approximately 50 pounds. The wheels are retractable handles that allow users to put it in their trunk, and then take it out when they need it.
The company claims that the Go can deliver up to 20 miles of range after being connected for just 30 minutes. The Go will also be available in a higher capacity version that can provide EVs with up to 40 miles of range. It can be used with any plug-in hybrid EV or EV equipped with a Type 2 socket. The device can charge the vehicle up to its maximum capacity in 30 minutes to an hours. The device can be charged by plugging into any socket. Users will also have the ability to monitor and control it via an app. They can also schedule future charges during off peak hours for lower costs.
Although range anxiety is decreasing, it still prevents many from jumping ship. Gogoro, a company that makes hot-swappable batteries for scooters, developed a solution to the problem. However, electric cars can't usually be swapped out. SparkCharge offers a portable EV charging device called the Roadie. However, it isn't as easy to transport as the Go.
The ZipCharge Go is still not available. InsideEVs reports that the startup will release two versions of the ZipCharge Go: one for 4 kWh and one for 8 kWh. They also plan to begin deliveries in the fourth quarter 2022. You can lease it for 49 dollars per month. However, EV owners who are willing to pay for one as well as businesses such hotels with no charging facilities will be able to purchase one. Although ZipCharge has not yet revealed a price, the Sunday Times Driving section reports that the company plans to sell it at the same price as a 7.2kW home charger port installation.
