How to Plan for Depot Charging

Depot charging solutions are an essential cog in electrifying fleets. Currently, there is still work to do to build America’s commercial charging network to achieve a zero-emissions future. As of April 2024, the U.S. had just 168,300 charging outlets for vehicles, far short of what is needed. 

Furthermore, businesses lack the infrastructure required to power electric fleets, and public chargers are often unsuitable. For example, the Tesla Supercharger network accounted for 59.7% of DC fast charging ports, which are only compatible with Tesla vehicles. 

Building depot charging solutions is the most optimal way of achieving savings through electrification, but what must be considered to make it a reality?

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Estimated Demand

Begin with the basics of demand. How many charging points will be required to power an electric fleet? Numbers to look at include: 

·  Average distance traveled by each electric vehicle (EV).

·  Peak charging times.

·  EV models in service.

Electrical Infrastructure Compatibility 

Can the electrical network cope with the needs of the fleet?

Start by examining the feasibility and estimating associated costs. Sometimes, this may require working with a utility company to develop a dedicated distribution grid.

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Speed and Power

Chargers come in all shapes and sizes, but the fleet defines which charger works best.

For example, conventional Level 2 chargers found in most homes couldn’t charge a heavy-duty EV fleet. Businesses must ask, “What are our fleet’s needs?”

Compatibility 

One of the drawbacks of America’s EV infrastructure is its compatibility—or lack thereof. With so many manufacturers and charging standards, it’s no secret America has struggled to achieve uniformity, as in regions such as Europe. 

Checking for compatibility is essential in both the present and the future. Opting for universally compatible chargers, such as the Bolt Earth, empowers companies to service a broader range of vehicles.

Scaling

Building a depot charging hub is one thing, but is it built for the future? Hubs built for today may be unsuitable five years from now, requiring expensive expansions and refits.

But things get even more complex because it’s not only the fleet but any industry changes that might appear. It underlines the importance of working with a depot charging solutions provider to anticipate future needs.

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Operational Considerations

Not every company will choose to operate a charging hub themselves for one reason or another. Working with a charging point operator reduces the managerial strain and negates the need to hire skilled professionals. As always, if looking at maintaining a cutting-edge EV fleet, getting continuous support and regular updates are essential.

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Cost 

Finally, businesses must examine the viability of rolling out a depot charging solution for a newly electrified fleet. The cost must make sense, or the savings of electrification will evaporate. Some costs to factor in include:

·  Equipment Costs – Identify the equipment required to build a depot charging hub and compare across vendors.

·  Installation Costs – Electrical upgrades, site preparation, and construction costs are just some of the installation costs to think about. This will vary based on the availability of any current facilities and installation methods.

·  Maintenance and Operations – Estimate the ongoing costs of owning and operating a dedicated depot charging hub. These will form current costs and may include new personnel and routine servicing.

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If you’re ready to electrify your fleet, then connect with fleet@thebluedot.co to learn how Bluedot can help you navigate your EV transition. Bluedot streamlines billing and payment for public and at-home charging, aggregating 80% of the nation’s chargers in a single app and tracking home charging sessions.

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