The Future of EVs: China’s Battery Swapping Revolution
In a recent Twitter thread, JR Urbane Network (@JRUrbaneNetwork) shared a fascinating account of their experience with China’s innovative EV battery swapping technology.
This groundbreaking solution is transforming the way EV owners, particularly in the taxi industry, approach battery management and vehicle uptime.
A Chance Encounter with the Future
During a trip to Zhangjiajie, JR Urbane Network encountered a taxi driver who asked, “oh you’re early, can I change my taxi’s battery? it’s on the way, takes 10 mins?” Intrigued, they agreed, and the detour that followed opened their eyes to the future of EV charging.
Inside the Battery Swapping Station
Just five minutes later, they arrived at a lot housing two containers, each containing a battery swapping station. As they waited in line, JR Urbane Network watched in awe as the taxi in front of them was lifted, its battery automatically removed from underneath.
“Then the container automatically aligns and swaps in a new battery. The car is lowered and awaits payment to be released,” the driver explained.
The Simplicity of Battery Swapping Payments
The payment process is remarkably simple, calculated based on the difference in charge between the swapped batteries, with an estimated range.
During the swap, the taxi’s license plate is scanned, and both the old and new batteries are identified and checked for remaining range. The taxi driver then pays the difference, with the current rate being 28 RMB (~$3.87) per 100km of range, as of April 2024.
Advantages for the Taxi Industry
The driver informed JR Urbane Network that a fully charged battery for these EV taxis typically offers just over 200km of range. While this is sufficient for a normal day’s shift with one swap, busy days may require two swaps.
Despite the smaller battery size compared to non-swappable EVs, the driver believes this model is superior for the taxi industry.
“Yes the battery is smaller but swapping only takes 10 mins. If he plugged in (which he also could), the fleet and the company will have to manage a 1 hr charging “dead time”….. Maybe 2-3 hours if it was a bigger non-removable battery,” he remarked.
Moreover, the batteries and swapping stations are owned and maintained by a separate company, offering a service to the taxi company. This arrangement streamlines the process for taxi operators, as they can simply file a complaint with the battery company if any issues arise.
As the conversation continued, JR Urbane Network mentioned that battery swapping technology is virtually non-existent in other countries, with most relying on quick charging when in a hurry.
The driver’s response was thought-provoking: “But isn’t that hard on the battery?” Indeed, the potential impact on battery longevity is a concern that battery swapping could effectively address.
The battery swap for the taxi cost 45 RMB (~$6.22), as shown on the QR code payment screen at the side of the swapping station container.
With a fresh battery installed, they proceeded to the railway station, discussing the convenience and accessibility that China’s expansive high-speed rail network has brought to the region.
The Global Implications of Battery Swapping
Reflecting on this experience, it becomes clear that battery swapping technology holds immense potential for the future of EVs worldwide.
The convenience, efficiency, and reduced strain on batteries could revolutionize the way we approach EV charging and ownership.
While countries like the United States have yet to adopt this innovative solution, the success of China’s battery swapping model serves as a compelling example of what could be achieved.
As the global community continues to embrace EVs as a sustainable transportation solution, it is crucial that we explore and implement technologies that enhance the user experience and promote long-term battery health.
The battery swapping revolution in China, as documented by JR Urbane Network, offers a glimpse into a future where EV ownership is more convenient, efficient, and accessible than ever before.
It is time for the rest of the world to take notice and consider how this groundbreaking approach could transform our relationship with electric vehicles.