Electric Vehicle Charging

The e-mobility technology team in Amsterdam focuses on designing an electric vehicle charging infrastructure that ensures that the EV drivers lives as simple and stress-free as possible. The researchers are also looking at solutions that relieve the power grid. For example, when a fleet of buses or taxis charges simultaneously, the pressure on the power grid can be very high. Batteries, solar energy, or a combination of both can offer a solution in this case.

The charging ecosystem can be divided into three different charging systems: home charging, charging on the go and destination charging at a hub or depot (for example at work). For private use, charging at home is often the easiest and most economical way of charging. After all, most cars are parked in front of your home at night. Shell researchers support Shell Group member companies such as Amsterdam-based New Motion. New Motion is one of Europe’s largest charging providers, operating more than 40,000 private electric charging points in the Netherlands, Germany, France and the United Kingdom.

The researchers are also constantly looking at improving the charging time of electric vehicles. Shell Recharge is Shell's fast charging service and is increasingly found at Shell retail locations throughout the Netherlands. In the Amsterdam region, several Shell Recharge fast chargers points can now also be found at Shell retail stations, such as Schiphol and Amsterdam Westpoort. The charging stations have a capacity of 175 kW, that can charge an electric vehicle within 15-20 minutes, with renewable energy sources.

Shell is also working with IONITY – a joint venture of BMW Group, Daimler AG, Ford Motor Company and the Volkswagen Group (including Audi and Porsche) – to build a network of super-fast chargers with a loading capacity of 350 kW along the most important European motorways. The newer models of electric vehicles can charge in an average of five to eight minutes.

Charging while your car is parked at work or during leisure activities is also a convenient way to recharge. For companies, having a charge point at the workplace will become increasingly important as a facility for employees and visitors. Companies that use a fleet of electric vehicles also need a reliable charging service at their base. Shell experts design and build customised solutions for companies. ETCA operates its own hub with 14 NewMotion chargers and 1 Shell Recharge fast charger.