AAA to launch roadside charging for stranded EV drivers

A new contribution to the development of infrastructure for the electric vehicle market is being introduced by AAA. A mobile emergency recharging service is being launched in the Raleigh, North Carolina market. The mobile electric vehicle charging solution is powered by Green Charge Networks.

The unique solution will be available for stranded drivers of electric cars. The lithium ion battery onboard vehicle system provides a quick charge with enough battery power for the driver to go three to fifteen miles to get a complete charge.

The new service should give EV drivers an added sense of security knowing that someone can help them when their cars run low on charge. It builds on the growing network of fixed-location stations to extend the range of EV drivers and support them around the country.

The AAA mobile unit features a weatherproof and secure metal enclosure mounted in the bed of road rescue vehicles. The power management of the system is computer controlled and developed by Green Charge Networks.

AAA roadside assistance trucks will be equipped with Level 2 (240 volts of alternating current) and Level 3 (up to 500 volts of direct current) chargers. Following the successful completion of the pilot program, AAA plans to expand distribution of the EV charging trucks to other areas of the country. AAA will initiate a pilot program in August with six mobile charging units, utilizing various technologies, in Portland, Seattle, San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles, Knoxville, and Tampa/St. Petersburg.