Charging stations usually need a strong mains connection – or a strong diesel generator if they are to be mobile (as in Formula E). The mobile charging stations from VW should do without. Instead, the Wolfsburg kites fly.
Hiking charging stations for electric cars could close short-term gaps in the charging infrastructure in the future. VW’s charging solutions subsidiary, Volkswagen Charging, now wants to develop such flexible gas stations that can be set up independently of the existing infrastructure together with Enerkite, a manufacturer of airborne wind turbines. These flying turbines are intended to harvest wind energy at great heights and take over the power supply for the charging stations. The development is currently underway as part of a research project that is scheduled to run until the end of 2024. It is unclear when the technology will be ready for use. And this is how the fully automated operation works: everything runs automatically and is controlled by machines, no one has to fly a kite. EnerKites work in two phases. In the working phase, the wing flies in horizontal figure eights across the wind with maximum cable power. The rope is let out and drives a generator winch. In the return phase, the wing glides back to the starting point as quickly as possible. The generator works here in motor mode. Here the cycle closes. In the long work phase, the force is about ten times greater than in the short return phase. Each cycle thus delivers a positive energy contribution. The controller regulates the cyclical process, limits peak loads and optimally adapts the flight path to the changing wind conditions. All operating maneuvers are controlled fully automatically. From the parking position, the wing starts rotating on a rotating mast as soon as a wind of more than 2.5 m/s is expected at operating altitude, which allows energy generation. In calm weather, thunderstorms or when there is no need for electricity, the wing lands automatically and returns to the parking position. The nacelle is stable on the ground due to its weight. With twice the yield, 95% material savings, 75% better CO2 balance (each based on the annual yield) and fewer fluctuations in the electricity supply, EnerKite is setting new standards in terms of efficiency and 100% renewable energies.” Enerkites are basically available in three sizes: 100 watts, 0.5 megawatts, 2 megawatts.Volkswagen has been working on location-flexible charging station infrastructure for some time. As early as 2018, the car manufacturer presented a mobile quick charging station that draws power from a battery that is also mobile. Such systems are useful, for example, for major events or for rescue operations outside of cities.
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