As we’re quickly learning, the range of an EV is only as useful as the charging network it depends upon. Once the network is dense and widely distributed, an EV will be as versatile as a combustion engined car, and Porsche is spearheading this expansion.
This new Saxon facility features six internal quick-charging points, all of which contribute to a total capacity of seven megawatts. This amount of power makes it Europe’s most powerful rapid-charging park, and it’s operated entirely with renewable energy sources.
“The new charging park between the number 9, 14 and 38 motorways will significantly enrich the charging infrastructure in central Germany. Electric and hybrid vehicles of all brands are welcome”, says Gerd Rupp, Chairman of the Board of Management of Porsche Leipzig GmbH. “We are pleased that with the new charging park we can offer an attractive charging option for electric vehicle owners in Leipzig and the surrounding area, as well as transit passengers.”
During a pilot phase that is running until the end of March, rapid charging will be free of charge for all users. After that phase ends, payments will be made through the mobility provider’s charging cards. With service offered around the clock, seven days a week, for any type of electric vehicle, this park will serve as the practicality benchmark by which other charge parks must match if electric vehicles are to be truly as versatile as their gas-fed counterparts.
Twelve rapid charging points with 350 kW (direct current) and four charging points with 22 kW (alternating current) are now in operation at the customer center.
While their cars charge, customers can occupy themselves with the services of the Porsche Customer Center, including a historical vehicle exhibition and shop. Customers can also browse the driving experiences available at the Leipzig circuit; clearly, getting the EV market engaged with the sporting side of things is an aim. For example, the Panamera hybrid models are produced at Leipzig and Taycan customers can collect their car in person from the FIA-certified circuit, where they can enjoy tailored driving tutelage.”We will tailor these offers even more closely to our loading customers in future,” says Jens Walther, Head of Sales and Marketing at Porsche Leipzig.
Though the reality of pure practicality is far off, this station proves it possible. With promises of a reliable, stress-free and accommodating network, long-range journeys need not be plotted around the charge point grid. Additionally, tying the sporting side of electric vehicles with accessible charge parks will make the track day weekend a real possibility for many potential EV buyers. There’s a long way to go, but the future for the EV looks bright.