Hyundai Motor Group has uncovered its new Automatic Charging Robot (ACR) designed to streamline the electric vehicle (EV) charging process. This single-arm robot autonomously handles both the insertion and removal of charging cables for EVs. The latest video release showcases the ACR’s functionality, building on a CGI preview shared by the Group last July.
In the video, the Hyundai IONIQ 6 autonomously parks in a designated charging spot. Upon stopping, the ACR communicates with the vehicle to open the charging port.
Using a camera, it accurately determines the charging port’s position and angle. The robot then attaches the charger to the port, initiates the charging process, and, upon completion, detaches and stores the charger, closing the port cover afterward.
The ACR reflects Hyundai’s advanced robotics technology. The Robotics Lab has integrated multiple considerations into its design, such as the vehicle’s exact parking position, the charging port’s shape, weather conditions, potential obstacles, and the cable’s weight.
To address these factors, Hyundai developed a sophisticated algorithm utilizing 3D camera-based AI, enabling precise handling of the charger. Engineers tested the ACR in an outdoor electric vehicle charging station at Hyundai’s R&D center, ensuring it performs well under various environmental conditions.
The robot boasts an IP65 waterproof and dustproof rating, enhancing its durability. Additionally, a safety pole with a laser sensor surrounds the ACR to detect and avoid obstacles, minimizing accident risks.
Hyundai anticipates that the ACR will greatly enhance the EV charging experience. Future integration with autonomous parking systems could further optimize the charging process by managing multiple vehicles efficiently.