![Prototype Megawatt Charging System [MCS] from Siemens successfully delivered a 1MW charge.](/images/siemenstrucks.png#joomlaImage://local-images/siemenstrucks.png?width=786&height=488 "Prototype Megawatt Charging System [MCS] from Siemens successfully delivered a 1MW charge. (Image source: Siemens)")
Siemens Smart Infrastructure has accomplished the inaugural triumphant 1MW charge, within a trial that amalgamated a prototype MCS charging station from Siemens and a long-haul prototype eTruck from a reputable OEM.
The surge in the battery electric truck sector is impelled by advancements in battery and charger technologies. The escalating need for zero emission transport solutions remains crucial for extensive haulage, presenting myriad prospects for fleet operators.
Coupled with the prevailing Combined Charging System (CCS), the Megawatt Charging System (MCS) is poised to revolutionise heavy-duty electrification. MCS charging holds the potential to significantly contribute to sustainable long-haul transportation for heavy-duty vehicles.
To propel further advancements in the eco-friendly metamorphosis of this highly polluting transport domain, Siemens has unveiled a prototype of the SICHARGE Megawatt Charging System.
Constructed upon the current lineup, the MCS comprises multiple SICHARGE UC150 power cabinets, a switching matrix, and a tailored MCS dispenser. The pivotal component in the MCS is the switching matrix, consolidating the charging stations' power output and, as needed, channelling the power to the MCS dispenser.
Typically, batteries found in eTrucks could be replenished from 20% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes at a suitable charging station boasting an output of roughly one megawatt.
The path forward
Heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs) account for over a quarter of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from road transportation in the European Union (EU). Mitigating these emissions is paramount to the EU's aims of attaining climate neutrality by 2050 and diminishing reliance on imported fossil fuels.
To fulfil climate objectives and enhance EU air quality, the European Parliament has recently endorsed fresh measures to fortify CO2 emission reduction goals for new HDVs. CO2 emissions from sizable trucks and buses must undergo a 90% reduction by 2040. By 2030, novel urban buses must curtail their emissions by 90% and transition into zero-emission vehicles by 2035.
The electrification of long-haul trucking will revolutionise the operational framework of transportation firms and open avenues for competitive edge across various fronts. An increasing number of transport company clients prioritise CO2-neutral conveyance of their merchandise – entities unable to fulfil this criterion will be at a disadvantage.
Markus Mildner, CEO eMobility, Siemens Smart Infrastructure, said, “Especially in long-distance transport, electric trucks and coaches will need fast MCS during the legally prescribed driving time break. To ensure nationwide distribution of this, various requirements must be met including on the governmental side. However, the successful test brings us a big step forward on the technology side and underlines our ambition to actively make transport more sustainable.”
