ZipCharge’s ground-breaking portable EV charger on track for 2023 launch

A solution to electric vehicle charging for drivers without off-road parking has moved closer to production. ZipCharge’s potentially game-changing portable EV powerbank charger, the Go, is now advancing to the validation prototype (VP) stage.

In the UK alone, 8.5 million (or 40%) of car-owning households are without designated or off-street parking. This figure reaches 60% in other countries such as Italy and Spain.

The ZipCharge Go is a compact and lightweight bi-directional AC-DC converter. It can be charged at home, using a standard electricity supply, in just over an hour. It can then be connected to an EV wherever it is parked and deliver 20 to 40 miles of range in around 30-60 minutes, depending on model. The first models will be delivered to customers in early 2023.

ZipCharge is also developing bespoke control software and a dedicated mobile app that will allow users to optimise the operation of the portable EV powerbank. This incorporates security features including user authentication and the ability to remotely monitor, track and disable the Go charger from their mobile phone.

Fleet managers will be able to equip their vehicles with portable chargers, enabling them to charge wherever they park. The Go adds range and means drivers do not have to deviate their route to find the nearest charger.

ZipCharge Co-founder Jonathan Carrier said: “Since our launch at COP26 in November last year, ZipCharge has received an unprecedented level of interest from potential customers around the world.”

“We’re already in advanced discussions with a number of large corporate fleets and listening to their requirements, along with product suggestions from our enthusiastic prospective customer base.”

He added: “We expect to confirm final pricing later this year in Q4, 2022 as part of the pre-order process. Our mission is to democratise EV charging, which means the ZipCharge Go will be competitively priced and comparable to the purchase and full installation cost of a fixed home charger.”