The demand for electric cars is considerable and so, consequently, is the need for fast-charging stations. SALTO Power saw that the fast chargers in the market were big, heavy and difficult to upgrade. Not only that, but they were not user-friendly and poorly protected from the elements. Some of them had a service life of only two years before they needed to be replaced. The goal of this DIP project was therefore to develop a better fast charger with an identity and functionality adapted to the electric cars of the future.
Challenge
SALTO Power wanted to be innovative in terms of interaction design, user interface and technical functions. They wanted to create a product that would make waves in the market. The challenge was that fast chargers are still a new concept for many people. There is no history or culture behind them in terms of their operation.
Process
In a DIP project, the users need to be involved in the development stage and designers need to be included from the very start. SALTO Power conducted user studies in which they engaged in dialogue with Elbilforum (platform for electric car discussions), owners and manufacturers. The Oslo School of Architecture and Design (AHO) contributed with project follow-up and workshops. Since fast chargers are a relatively new concept for many, future studies were carried out in which various scenarios for architecture and technology were presented. The combination of these studies opened up a whole new and innovative way of thinking for both SALTO and the designers.
During this process, the designers and SALTO arrived at the conclusion that fast chargers should require as few operations as possible. It should be clear to every user how the fast-charging station is to be used.
Result
The result was a new fast charger. This new fast charger has smart extra features that differ from competitive products and can be used by all electric car owners. The project resulted in a pilot station with six chargers and a mobile office made of environmentally friendly, renewable and recycled materials. The office is to serve as a test base where observations, dialogue with users and documentation will form the basis for further development. DIP funding made possible a very in-depth analysis that was absolutely decisive for the final product.
