Ford trials robot charging station
Summary
Disabled drivers have already identified ease of charging as a key purchase consideration for electric vehicles. Once activated, the station cover slides open and the charging arm extends towards the inlet with the help of a tiny camera. The driver would simply send the vehicle to the charging station, with the infrastructure ensuring it reaches and returns from its destination autonomously. Ford is also researching into robot charging solutions in combination with Automated Valet Parking, as demonstrated at IAA in Munich, Germany, last year. The robot charging station could be an added convenience for some people but – absolutely essential for others.” Angela Aben, Employee Communications, Ford of Europe, who uses a power-assisted wheelchair to gain more mobility and independence, said: “I stopped filling up my car myself years ago, because it became very strenuous.