California based charging startup FreeWire Technologies has joined forces with GM Energy, offering a significant expansion in charging choices for commercial customers utilizing General Motors’ energy management solutions. Fleet operators connected to GM Energy’s platform will now have streamlined access to FreeWire’s battery-powered DC fast chargers, providing enhanced flexibility and efficiency.
FreeWire’s Boost Chargers distinguish themselves with an integrated 160-kilowatt-hour battery pack, eliminating the need for costly infrastructure upgrades that traditional DC fast chargers often require. This innovative approach is expected to reduce installation costs by up to 20% and operational costs by up to 70%, making it an attractive solution for commercial applications.
One standout feature of FreeWire’s fast chargers is their ability to dispense up to 200 kilowatts of power while needing only 27 kW to recharge their integrated battery pack. This efficiency enables compatibility with both a 400-volt three-phase AC and a split-phase 240V source, commonly found in industrial or large-scale operations.
The integrated energy management software further enhances the charging experience. Fleet operators can optimize charging schedules by topping up the battery during periods of lower energy costs, typically during the night when vehicles are inactive. This strategic energy management ensures a ready-to-go fleet at the start of each workday.
FreeWire’s Boost Chargers come equipped with two cables, featuring a CCS connector capable of delivering up to 200 kW and a CHAdeMO plug dispensing up to 100 kW. Notably, starting from mid-2024, the inclusion of Tesla’s NACS connector will extend compatibility to a broad spectrum of modern EV inlets. When two vehicles are simultaneously connected to a single charger, the power delivery is intelligently split, with each EV receiving up to 100 kW.
This collaboration between FreeWire Technologies and GM Energy not only expands charging options for commercial customers but also underscores the importance of innovative solutions in advancing the electric vehicle charging infrastructure. As the automotive industry continues its shift toward electrification, partnerships like these play a crucial role in providing efficient and cost-effective charging solutions for fleets embracing sustainable practices.
