Nissan, General Electric agree to research vehicle charging stations

Fans of electric vehicles can breathe a sigh of relief, as General Electric and Nissan have entered into an agreement that promises to make EV charging stations practical and accessible. The all-electric Nissan Leaf, set to debut in Japan, the United States, and Europe, possess a battery that gives it a 100-mile range on a fully-charged battery.

The joint-project will focus on “˜smart” charging stations, that aim to ease strain on electric-power grids. Manufacturers and utility companies hope to see EV”s with a power storage source. Right now, utility companies around the country are working with homeowners to install 220-volt charging stations that charge cars much more quickly than traditional 110-volt household outlets.

More is needed however; “Together with Nissan, we will take a comprehensive look at what technologies will be needed in the car, on the grid, and at home or work to make smart charging a reality,” said Mark Little, director of GE Global Research.

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– By: Stephen Calogera

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)