BMW And EV Connection Unveils Prototype Mobile EV Charging Vehicle

BMW Group Malaysia and EV charging solutions provider EV Connection Sdn Bhd have teamed up to showcase Malaysia's first mobile EV charging vehicle. The unique prototype was showcased today at the Malaysia Autoshow 2023, and it is employs recycled BMW and MINI electric vehicle (EV) batteries.

A first-of-its-kind initiative by BMW Malaysia, the prototype is also the result of a second-life battery programme that repurposes batteries from existing electrified BMW and MINI vehicles which have reached the end of their lifecycle and converted mobile EV chargers.

The second-life battery programme is part of BMW Malaysia's RE:GENERATE initiative, which aims to redirect all retired EV batteries here to further expand their electrification possibilities.

From data centre backup support to mobile EV charging solutions, the second-life battery programme aims to shift the mindset of recycling automotive waste to repurposing, giving Malaysian batteries a more meaningful second life while also encouraging the development of sustainable innovation and sharing of tech know-how.

This prototype is powered by 16 repurposed BMW battery modules, each with a State of Health (SoH) of roughly 70%.

The system is designed with a capacity of 20 kWh and can provide up to 30 kVA three-phase AC power on demand. Combined with a 30 kW DC charger located at the back of the vehicle, it can rescue up to two EVs by providing  enough charge and range to reach the nearest charging station.

Furthermore, at full capacity, the mobile charging vehicle can power up to eight homes in disaster zones.

Mounted at the back of this prototype vehicle is a 30 KW DC charger. Additionally, it can also dispense 30 kVA three-phase AC power on demand.

Sashi Ambi, BMW Malaysia's Head of Corporate Communications and Sustainability, states that repurposing the end-of-life batteries from its electrified vehicles effectively put these vehicles back into the loop to continue serving the EV ecosystem even after completing their lifecycle.

"The closing of this loop recognises the significant value of the precious metals that are in our batteries, which are finite resources on this planet, and prolongs their use as much as possible before they are eventually retired," added Sashi.

This unique prototype is on display at the Malaysia Autoshow 2023 this week at MAEPS, Serdang until May 8.

Dr. Che Hang Seng, technical director at EV Connection, expressed his gratitude for being a part of the unprecedented innovative initiative with a trusted automotive brand like BMW in the development of this mobile charger.

"It is our hope that we will be able to elevate the range anxiety of EV drivers and contribute towards driving the Electrified Mobility revolution in Malaysia," continued Dr. Chee further.