Masdar City is testing its first rapid charger technology to assess its efficiency in extreme desert conditions. The new CHAdeMO-certified rapid chargers reduce EV charging time from six hours to just 30 minutes…
Masdar City has launched a pilot project to test the efficiency of rapid charger technology in harsh desert conditions. The CHAdeMO-certified charger, provided by Efacec, a leader in AC and DC chargers, will power 12 Mitsubishi Motors Electric Vehicles (i-MiEV) currently operating in the city.
Previously, these EVs required six hours of charging using standard outlets. With the new rapid technology charger, the batteries can reach 80% capacity in just 30 minutes.
Naser Al Marzouqi, Head of Facilities Management at Masdar City, highlighted that faster charging means more EVs can operate throughout the day. He emphasized that the rapid charger pilot project reflects the city’s commitment to sustainable transportation and collaboration with clean technology providers.
Pedro Silva, Electric Mobility Director at Efacec, expressed pride in contributing to the city’s innovative initiative. He stressed that widespread acceptance of electric mobility is key to achieving large-scale sustainable transportation. Efacec’s rapid chargers are designed for high efficiency and quality to support this goal.
The chargers are connected to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ EV control center in Masdar City. This project, which started in January 2011, aims to address concerns about battery life and prove the reliability of electric vehicles in extreme climates.
The i-MiEVs, which are five-door hatchbacks with a range of 150 km, have already defied expectations by performing well in the desert heat.
Since the project’s launch, the 100% electric vehicles have transported over 35,000 passengers and reduced carbon dioxide emissions by 33,000 tons. As the first mass-produced electric vehicles used in the UAE EV market, these EVs play a crucial role in Masdar City’s vision for a sustainable future.
The pilot project of rapid charger technology is an important step toward promoting electric mobility and reducing environmental impact.
Also Read: DEWA’s EV Green Chargers Initiative
