Toyota has begun a five-month test of public EV chargers in Aichi Prefecture, Japan. In addition to targeting commercial, tourist, and accommodation facilities as in past tests, this year’s tests will also involve cultural and social service facilities. The aim is to ascertain the optimal number and location of charging stations and their ease of use.

A total of 147 standard chargers will be used in the upcoming tests, 43 of which are newly installed.

The tests will focus on:

• Identifying ideal charger locations and operating methods by monitoring charging frequency and duration at each facility
• Determining whether installing chargers at city-owned facilities in hilly and mountainous areas will allay user concerns about running out of charge
• Installing multiple chargers at commercial facilities where usage is heavy and monitoring changes in usage to ascertain the need for energy management measures, such as peak shaving

Source: Toyota