Gravity Inc., an electric vehicle (EV) startup, has introduced a universal on-street mounting and cable system for fast charging of vehicles at 200 kW and 500 kW distributed energy access points (DEAPs).
Called DEAP Trees, Gravity is looking to make the curbside EV charging more expansive than Tesla’s Supercharger network as existing and expected public curbside charging has the potential to occupy tens of thousands of parking spaces.
The curbside system with its 200 kW and 500 kW capabilities has the capability to fully charge an EV in 5 to 13 minutes. Gravity claims this is faster than most chargers deployed currently including several times the capacity of Tesla’s common 72 kW or 150 kW superchargers.
"Right now, American cities are choosing the curbside charging that drivers will use for decades to come,” said Moshe Cohen, founder and CEO of Gravity Inc. “Unfortunately, many are looking to obsolete overnight Level 2 charging with cables that clutter sidewalks and that don't fit the needs of urban EV drivers.”
How it works
The DEAP Tree includes a hinged swing arm that holds a cable that pivots down when charging begins. This allows the EV charger to reach every EV model regardless of vendor or model.
When the charging is completed, the arm raises automatically, and the connector latches back onto the pole. Gravity said this method prevents the cable becoming twisted or in the street where it could become a tripping hazard or obstacle to accessibility.
Other features of the DEAP Tree include:
- Retractor-less cable management capable
- Bidirectional-ready
- No tripping hazards
- Reduces vandalism potential
- Minimal visual profile that won't clutter streets
- Suitable for both metered and residential parking areas
Additionally, Gravity said the DEAP Trees are smart city compatible so municipalities could port traffic safety cameras, LEDs and curbside lighting, 5G, public Wi-Fi, air quality sensors and integrated audio/video communication to the system.
