The AeroVironment TurboCord Dual plug-in EV charger is one of the finalists for the 2016 Automotive News PACE Awards, according to a new press release.
The selection of the TurboCord Dual plug-in EV charger as a finalist was no doubt due to reasons similar to those that led Volvo to select the charger as standard equipment in the 2016 Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid (PHEV) — reasons such as: the charger’s versatility (dual voltage Level 1 and Level 2 compatibility; 120V and 240V), its build quality, and its light weight.
For some background here — the Automotive News PACE Awards is an awards competition that seeks to “honor superior innovation, technological achievement and business performance among automotive suppliers.” Those up for PACE Award consideration are required to possess a production commitment from an automotive original equipment manufacturer (OEM).
Here’s more via the press release:
The smallest and first UL-listed, charging cordset on the market, the innovative TurboCord Dual is an elegant fit with the luxurious Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine, which is powered by both a supercharged and turbocharged Drive-E engine and a rear axle electric motor. The Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine is the first plug-in hybrid to offer a UL listed 240-volt Level 2 charging as part of its standard package. With TurboCord inside, Volvo drivers can conveniently and easily maximize their electric driving range. At 240-volt Level 2 charging, TurboCord Dual can fully charge the Volvo XC90 in as little as 2.5 hours versus seven hours with a normal Level 1 cordset that comes with other EVs.
“More plug-in drivers are choosing TurboCord Dual for its convenience and versatility, and with its selection by Volvo and nomination for the PACE Award there is even more evidence that TurboCord Dual is making an impact,” stated Ken Karklin, general manager, efficient energy systems for AeroVironment. “TurboCord Dual is a remarkably flexible and powerful portable charging solution, and is setting a new standard for fast, dependable EV charging that is both convenient and easy for drivers.”
Winners are currently slated to be announced April 11th, at the Max M & Marjorie S Fisher Music Center in Detroit.
Good hardware, but still limited, primarily by the cars and infrastructure.
While i can see a small need for 110 charging in the short term, 6.6 KW should be the absolute minimum vehicle charging hardware. I hope that in a few years 10KW AC and DC charging will be standard options, if not the standard everywhere.