Volkswagen’s software subsidiary, Cariad, and automotive supplier Bosch are pioneering a revolutionary solution for electric vehicle (EV) parking and charging.
Their innovative automated technology enables driverless EVs to cross to available parking spaces equipped with charging robots, which recharge the vehicles automatically. Once fully charged, the cars autonomously relocate to another unoccupied space, freeing up the charging robot for the next EV.
This cutting-edge system aims to transform the EV charging experience, addressing common pain points such as long wait times, blocking fees, and cumbersome cable handling.
By streamlining the charging process, automated valet charging enhances customer convenience and benefits automakers, charge spot operators, parking garage operators, and energy suppliers.
Bosch, with its extensive experience in automated parking, and Cariad, despite facing recent challenges, are committed to advancing this technology.
The companies are currently testing the system in two German parking garages: Cariad’s staff parking garage in Ingolstadt and Bosch’s development parking garage in Ludwigsburg.
While this technology offers numerous advantages, there are potential challenges to overcome, such as standardizing communication between vehicles and charging robots and ensuring robot uptime.
Nevertheless, the collaboration between Cariad and Bosch demonstrates their dedication to shaping the future of electric mobility. By harnessing their expertise, they aim to create a seamless and efficient EV charging experience, paving the way for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.