Despite significant Government investment into the UK electric vehicle (EV) charging network, new research suggests that 73% of drivers would support battery swap stations, where an EVs depleted battery could be swapped for a fully charged one in just five minutes.
The research by Venson Automotive Solutions reveals that most drivers in favour of swap stations say it is because it would save them time, indicating many motorists consider even a 20 minute ultra rapid charge too long. 17% of motorists oppose battery switching say it sounds expensive, is not environmentally friendly or sounds dangerous.
Electric SUV swapping battery pack in a concept Battery Swap Station.
As fleets continue to strive for sustainable mobility, keeping pace on public sentiment surrounding EV technology remains essential, says Venson.
Battery switching technology is currently common only with commercial vehicles like forklift trucks, yet some manufacturers have not ruled out the solution. Battery swapping is faster than charging and could be a better fit for those living in buildings in cities or densely populated areas where access to a charge point is at best, severely restricted. Experts also argue that battery swapping could significantly reduce the cost of an EV as drivers won’t own the batteries.
In Madrid this summer, Fiat, Ample and Free2Move, continued to roll out a battery swapping five-minute recharge solution to its car-sharing market[i]. This comes as recent research by Venson highlights that two-thirds of future fleet drivers think having access to a car is as good as owning one.
For the younger generation (18-24 year olds), cost-effectiveness is the most important consideration, with over a third (34%) citing it as their main concern. For drivers aged 65 and over, safety takes precedence, with 38% supporting battery swapping provided it meets safety standards.
Comments Simon Staton, Client Management Director, Venson Automotive Solutions, “As a fleet management provider it is important to keep abreast of public thinking on mobility solutions. So, it is revealing to see that the majority would support battery swap stations. It seems that getting access to a fully charged battery within five minutes, mirroring the time it takes to refuel and pay for fuel in an ICE vehicle, remains the dream.
“Although the UK is relatively in its infancy where electric cars are concerned, battery swapping technology, used correctly has the potential to boost fleet availability, cut charging times and minimise reliance on charging infrastructure. Realistically though, with so much Government investment being injected into the charging network, we are unlikely to see a rapid growth in swap stations. There are other obstacles too, such as the question of ownership of a battery. That’s why the use of battery swapping in car-sharing schemes is more realistic and aligns with the enthusiasm of future fleet drivers who prioritise sustainable fleet solutions.”
