ABB has been selected by the Estonian government to build a network of 200 electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging stations throughout the country. The order is Europe’s largest EV charging infrastructure contract to date and is intended to establish the world’s first fast-charging infrastructure with nationwide coverage. ABB is scheduled to have all Terra systems direct current (DC) chargers running by the end of 2012.

As part of the five-year contract, ABB will also deliver network operating support services for the chargers in the field and the backbone IT architecture. ABB bid on the project with partners G4S and NOW! Innovations. The former will provide customer support and the latter payment solutions.

Ulrich Spiesshofer, head of ABB’s Discrete Automation and Motion division says the deal shows that “the rollout of EV charging infrastructure solutions is gaining momentum, and complements the recent run of small orders we’ve taken in other European countries from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in the automotive industry and infrastructure customers. To be successful, this infrastructure needs to be open to any kind of electric car. Our connectivity solutions are designed to support all existing and future connection standards within the same network.”

The growing number of electric vehicles in the marketplace is driving a global demand for charging solutions including sophisticated monitoring systems and software to support the electric grid. ABB’s DC chargers reduce charging times from eight hours to as little as 15 to 30 minutes using regular alternating current (AC).

Jarmo Tuisk, Estonia’s director of the Innovation and Technology Division at the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications says his government “would like to ensure that driving an EV in Estonia is as comfortable and safe as driving any other car. The country-wide innovative fast charging network with high quality services from ABB and its partners is essential in accomplishing that task.”

The Estonian government plans to provide fast charging stations in all urbanized areas with more than 5,000 inhabitants. Main roads will have a fast charger installed every 31 miles (50 km), establishing the highest concentration of DC chargers in Europe. The project, financed by the Green Investment Scheme, is part of the national government’s plan to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. In addition, Estonia offers subsidies of up to 50 percent for private EV purchases.

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