30 Sep 09 11:21
Elektrobay charging point
Brighton is to play home to 20 roadside charging stations over the next 12 months as it bids to become the country's most electric-car-friendly city.
Councillors have given the go-ahead to install ten of the stations, called Elektrobays, in Brighton by the end of 2009, with a further ten planned for installation early next year.
Brighton-based company Elektromotive manufactures the charging points and will be responsible for the implementation of the project.
Since 2006, the company has established a network of more than 100 roadside charging stations in London, many of which are used around-the-clock by electric vehicle users.
Elektromotive has already completed installation of four Elektrobays at pilot sites - with two located at Bartholomews in the city centre, and another two in Ditchling Road near The Level.
The units will be in full working order in preparation for the official launch on Friday outside the Town Hall.
'We have installed the Elektrobay in locations across the country, as well as in Europe and even Saudi Arabia, but this project is especially exciting for us as it is taking place in our home town,' said Managing Director of Elektromotive, Calvey Taylor-Haw. 'By encouraging drivers to switch to electric, Brighton will benefit hugely. There will be less air pollution and local residents will appreciate the quiet of EVs. The installation of the Elektrobays will take place over a short period of time, providing EV users with rapid access to charging facilities.'
The Elektrobay can charge pure electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and features a single socket unit with a power supply of 13 amps - the same as a household plug.
Consumers access the Elektrobay's power supply using a personalised wireless key fob that opens the door at the front of the unit. To prevent interference from a third party, the door locks shut when charging is in progress.
To prevent a trip hazard for pedestrians, including the blind and partially sighted, a highly visible yellow coiled cable is provided to all Elektrobay consumers, which extends to 3.5 metres, sitting at waist height when charging is in progress.
