South Africa is set to enhance its electric vehicle charging infrastructure significantly. GridCars is replacing older chargers with advanced 120kW dual-connector units to support a wider range of electric vehicles.
This ambitious upgrade program aims to modernize the national EV charging network. The new chargers will accommodate voltages from 150V to 1 000V, making them compatible with contemporary EV architectures and allowing multiple vehicles to charge simultaneously.
GridCars Upgrades Charging Network Across South Africa
GridCars, South Africa’s leading EV charging network operator, is undertaking a major upgrade of its aging infrastructure. The initiative includes replacing older 500V chargers with new 120kW units that can support various electric vehicles, including passenger cars and commercial platforms.
The new dual-connector DC fast chargers will feature two CCS2 connectors, intelligently distributing power to multiple vehicles without needing extra electrical capacity at each site. This upgrade is crucial for accommodating the growing demand for electric vehicles in the country.
Key Features of the New Charging Stations
The upgraded charging stations will include several enhancements. These include remote monitoring, over-the-air software updates, and the ability to operate during communication outages through offline authorization and AutoCharge functionality.
Moreover, the physical infrastructure at select sites will be reconfigured to better accommodate larger vehicles, with extended parking bays and improved cable accessibility. This is particularly important for fleets and commercial vehicles, as well as future electric trucks.
Future Plans for Charging Infrastructure Expansion
- Introduction of new charging stations alongside upgrades
- Focus on improving coverage between major economic hubs
- Phased rollout communicated through apps and customer service channels
South Africa is taking significant steps to modernize its EV charging network, paving the way for a greener future.
