Plug In Carolina Selects AeroVironment to Supply, Install and Support Electric Car Charging Stations Throughout South Carolina

Plug In Carolina has selected AeroVironment, Inc. (AV) to supply, install and support a network of public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in seven South Carolina cities. The charging network is expected to be operational by 1 December 2010 to support the variety of new EVs entering the roadways.

The project, funded largely by two state grants secured through the South Carolina Energy Office and scheduled to launch 15 June 2010, features a family of charging stations with one, two, or four charge points each. The multi-port configuration is user friendly and lends itself to cost-effective electrical installation. The stations will be located in key re-fueling hubs in each city.

The program will provide publicly accessible EV charging stations at locations such as municipal parking garages, public streets and retailers. Depending on host city requirements, the stations will offer smart communications and payment system options now or in the future.

AeroVironment has been developing, manufacturing and supporting EV charging products for more than a decade. AV offers a range of products and services, such as Level 2 charging stations for the home, and public and Level 3 fast charge public stations that can recharge a car battery in as little as 10 minutes. AV also offers robust, multi-modal communication, networking and payment systems that support the evolving needs of public charging infrastructure.

Founded in 2006, Plug In Carolina is a non-profit organization sponsored by the state’s major utilities: South Carolina Electric & Gas Co., Duke Energy, Santee Cooper and Lockhart Power. Its stated mission is to educate and promote the environmental, economic and national security benefits of plug-in vehicles.