The BMWi8 and i3 parked next to the Light and Charge lamppost. The Light and Charge system looks like the average streetlight, but is a charging post for electric cars. (via BMW)
Electric cars are more friendly to the environment since they don't depend on harmful chemicals and gas. Though it sounds good, it brings along different problems, such as making sure the car keeps its charge. Garages can be outfitted with an outlet, but what about if the car needs quick juice while on the go? The BMW group may have found a viable solution. The MINI Coup plant in Oxford, UK is currently showcasing the Light and Charge system, an LED street light that doubles as a charging station for electric cars as part of its Low Carbon Oxford week. It combines energy efficient lighting and cost effective EV charging.
The Light and Charge has an adaptable modular design, can be installed anywhere as long as there's suitable parking, and can be easily integrated into existing local authority infrastructure. They can replace conventional street lights since up to four LED modules can provide night lighting on main roads, while one or two can be used for side streets in residential areas. Streets lights can be adjusted according to the area thanks to control electronics which can save energy by reducing output late at night. When it comes to charging your car the process is simple: just swipe a card and the car will begin powering regardless of the model.
With technology like this, it'll be easier for people to get behind electric cars. Hopefully, with further development the Light and Charge system will ship outside of the UK and be in most American cities sometime in the future.
C
See more news at:
http://twitter.com/Cabe_Atwell