Zenobe will test the latest EV charging solutions within a technology-agnostic setting to identify the most cost effective and optimal charging solutions for fleet operators.
The centre can simulate depot charging with the ability to charge multiple buses and electric cars at one time while connected to a Powerskid, a 100kW battery storage asset made from second-life batteries.
The Powerskid, a clean and portable temporary power source made from refurbished EV batteries, will enable Zenobe to assess how innovations such as V2G charging and grid enhancement services to support the additional power required for EV charging can be scaled up and implemented for the fleet operator.
The Innovation Centre will also trial and interface different models of charger and electric vehicles to provide valuable insight into the relationship between the charger and vehicle.
Zenobe has also integrated its fleet charging software into the testing, taking into account real-world, site-specific challenges such as grid limitations and battery degradation, and how these can be managed.
Steven Meersman, founder director at Zenobe, said: ‘The Innovation Centre is an evolution of our service offering and will ensure we give even better service to our customers in two ways - by testing components, chargers and other equipment continuously and by enabling us to commission and integrate equipment before anything arrives on site ensuring a smooth customer experience during this important but sometimes overwhelming transition to zero emission fleets.’
Speaking at the launch, Penny Mordaunt MP for Portsmouth North also welcomed the latest addition to Portsmouth’s growing expertise in enabling clean energy technologies.
She commented: ‘Zenobe’s new Innovation Centre facility and its commitment to continuously testing and researching new technology that supports the sustainable transition of the UK’s bus, truck and van fleets to electric will ensure that we meet our ambitious commitment to our net zero goals.’
