Elli combines wallbox with PV system and dynamic electricity tariff
VW announced the ‘Smart Charging’ initiative in June 2024, which is now being launched to market. The initiative includes, among other things, a new wallbox. The Elli Charger 2 is available in four versions across 28 European markets. “At Elli, we see smart charging as the interface between electric mobility and the energy transition at home. Our smart charging products, especially our new charger, represent a significant innovation step for our customers,” explains Giovanni Palazzo, CEO of Elli & SVP of Volkswagen Charging & Energy.
The wallbox is designed to be compatible with ‘any electric vehicle with a Type 2 charging connector.’ The two base models, ‘Connect 11’ and ‘Connect 22,’ allow for charging at a maximum of 11 or 22 kW, offer WiFi and ethernet as network interfaces, and are available with cables of either 4.5 or 7.5 meters in length. While an energy meter is integrated into this model, it is neither a MID nor a legally compliant meter. The two higher-end versions, ‘Pro 22’ and ‘Pro 22 (legally compliant),’ feature an LTE connection and a MID meter or a legally compliant meter, with the legally compliant variant aimed exclusively at the German market. Prices range from €759 to €1,499.
The new wallbox is distinguished by its ability to facilitate surplus charging from photovoltaic (PV) systems. When the electric vehicle is charged using excess PV electricity, customers could benefit from up to 40 per cent lower charging costs. For customers who want their wallbox to be connected with dynamic electricity tariffs, the Elli Charger 2 will be capable of automatically selecting the cheapest charging times.
The Elli Charger 2 helps make charging electric cars even more environmentally friendly by ensuring that EVs are charged when green electricity is readily available and, therefore, also generally cheaper. This, in turn, increases the efficiency of renewable energy use. “In addition, we are creating a framework for the future with our smart charging portfolio to use EVs as energy storage and help stabilize the power grid,” adds Giovanni Palazzo.
In the first step, Volkswagen is now offering a photovoltaic system from Otovo in addition to the wallbox. The partnership between Elli and the Norwegian PV retailer will initially be rolled out as a pilot project in Germany at selected Volkswagen dealers, including those in Hamburg, Ulm, and Augsburg, with the intention of establishing it across Europe in the long term.
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