Ample, an EV battery swap specialist, has announced its partnership with ENEOS to introduce modular swap stations in Japan. The first swap stations will be established in Kyoto and utilized by various local fleets.
Ample is a California-based startup that focuses on modular battery stations known for their ease of installation, mobility, and minimal footprint. The company aims to facilitate the deployment of 1 billion electric vehicles globally in the future.
In 2021, Ample began deploying its first-generation autonomous battery-swapping stations in San Francisco, collaborating with rideshare companies like Uber and last-mile delivery startup Sally to collect valuable data.
By May 2023, the company introduced its second-generation swap station, reducing the swapping process from ten to five minutes and accommodating larger EV models. This led to collaborations with OEMs like Mitsubishi Fuso and Stellantis to integrate EV battery swap capabilities into their vehicles.
Ample is now expanding its technology internationally by introducing battery swap stations in Japan.
Ample secures battery swaps in Japan with several fleets
Ample is set to introduce its battery swap stations in Kyoto, Japan, in collaboration with ENEOS, a Japanese oil corporation known for service stations. The implementation aligns with ENEOS’ Japan Protocol, focusing on reducing CO2 emissions and decarbonizing Japan.
The initial rollout in Kyoto will include two drive-through swapping stations utilized by multiple fleet partners, such as Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, and other prominent organizations.
MK Taxi, the largest taxi fleet in Kyoto, will also benefit from Japan’s first battery swap stations, addressing issues with charge sessions and charging infrastructure. Ample’s technology promises quick battery swaps in just five minutes from modular stalls.
Japan’s commitment to banning new combustion vehicles by 2035 underscores the increasing demand for EV chargers and battery swap stations. Ample is proud to support Japan’s decarbonization goals through its innovative solutions.
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