Video: ABB opens fast charger factory

ABB E-mobility has opened its largest DC fast charger production facility, in Italy.

The 16,000m2 E-mobility Centre of Excellence represents an investment of US$30 million, the site in Valdarno, Tuscany, also featuring a 3200m2 development and prototyping space for research and development.

ABB E-mobility innovations include the Terra 360, which can deliver 100km of range in less than three minutes.

The full range of ABB DC charging solutions will be produced at the site, supporting the electrification of all transport sectors and exemplifying ABB E-mobility’s commitment to building a zero-emission future with smart, reliable charging solutions for EVs.

ABB E-mobility has already sole more than 680,000 EV chargers across at least 85 markets.

The new Valdarno facility means it has now more than doubled its production capacity over the last two years, the plant enabling the creation of more than 10,000 additional DC chargers annually.

“The opening of our new Valdarno facility demonstrates ABB E-mobility’s commitment to building a zero-emission future,” says ABB E-mobility chief executive Frank Mühlon.

“In addition to increased production capacity, the investment made in Valdarno helps to expand our innovative R&D activity, ensuring we can continue to cement our reputation as the world leader in electric vehicle charging solutions, delivering future proof e-mobility solutions for the vehicles of today and tomorrow.”

The new factory produces one DC fast charger every 20 minutes thanks to its seven production lines, while 15 testing facilities are able to simulate more than 400 charging sessions daily.

Integrated automation solutions connect the shopfloor to the innovative automatic warehouse, ensuring optimised stock control, full traceability and efficient operations, supported by AGVs and handling vehicles.

ABB E-mobility employs more than 350 R&D experts globally and has a portfolio with in excess of 350 granted patents.

The Valdarno facility also aims to achieve gold level LEED certification – the globally recognised independent standard for the design, construction and operation of eco-friendly buildings. Rainwater is collected for irrigation use, 100% of production waste is recycled, and the entirety of the energy needs are met by certified renewable sources – including a photovoltaic system delivering 720MWh of electricity.

The site’s electrical distribution is also optimised due to ABB Ability Energy and Asset Manager, a platform that monitors and efficiently manages more than 9000 devices throughout the facility – including thermal regulation, lighting and air handling units – resulting in a potential energy saving of 60% in comparison to traditional solutions.

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