Fastned, a Dutch operator of EV charging stations, has chosen Switzerland-based ABB to build an extensive network of fast chargers in the Netherlands. Once completed, the 200+ station network will put all 16.7 million Dutch residents within 50 kilometers of a charging station.

Each station will feature a solar canopy, and will be equipped with several of ABB’s multi-standard fast chargers, such as the 50 kW Terra 52 and Terra 53 models, which allow EVs to be charged in as little as 15 to 30 minutes. The first chargers are due to be delivered in September, and construction of the stations is expected to be completed by 2015.

“Fastned chose ABB for its proven expertise in deploying and managing nationwide EV charging networks,” said ABB CEO Ulrich Spiesshofer. “ABB provides the chargers and industry-leading software solutions for remote servicing as well as connectivity to subscriber management and payment systems.”

ABB deployed a similar charging network in Estonia last year, which features an open standards-based cloud connectivity solution to handle payments and access.

The Netherlands’ plan to deploy fast charging stations started in 2011 when Fastned asked the Ministry of Infrastructure for permission to implement an EV charging network. The government announced a public-tender process to facilitate the deployment of chargers at 245 service stations along Dutch highways, and Fastned was awarded concessions for 201 locations.

Source: ABB