The latest move by the Busan government to sign a memorandum of understanding with local representatives of residential complexes comes after growing complaints over a lack of charging stations from electric car drivers, and the new facilities are expected to ease the burden for electric vehicle owners living in apartments. (Image: Kobiz Media)
SEOUL, Jun. 22 (Korea Bizwire) — Busan Metropolitan City is set to introduce a portable electric vehicle charging system at local apartment buildings and complexes as part of efforts to encourage the use of alternative fuel vehicles.
The latest move by the Busan government to sign a memorandum of understanding with local representatives of residential complexes comes after growing complaints over a lack of charging stations from electric car drivers, and the new facilities are expected to ease the burden for electric vehicle owners living in apartments.
According to Busan government officials, the new chargers will allow apartment residents to charge their electric vehicles with an RFID system that makes use of conventional power sockets located at apartment building parking lots.
After connecting a portable charger to a 220V socket, and the handle of the charger to an RFID tag, the electric vehicle will then begin charging.
Previously, residents in Busan who bought an electric vehicle were given government subsidies of up to 19 million won plus a charger, but the lack of charging stations at apartment blocks has made it difficult for car owners to charge their vehicles, possibly thwarting the prospect of electric vehicle ownership for potential buyers.
However, Busan’s move to introduce portable chargers, enabling drivers to charge their vehicles wherever there is a socket, is expected to stimulate greater interest in alternative fuel vehicles in the region.
Busan Metropolitan City is set to introduce a portable electric vehicle charging system at local apartment buildings and complexes as part of efforts to encourage the use of alternative fuel vehicles. (Image: Yonhap)
“Of households in Busan, 52 percent live in an apartment. Though it’s been difficult to build electric vehicle charging infrastructure due to technicalities regarding electricity bill payment, the new portable chargers will encourage the use of electric cars,” a Busan government official said.
In addition to the portable charger project, the Busan Metropolitan Government is also planning to introduce 500 charging stations across the city by 2020, with the aim of reaching 10,000 electric vehicles.
Hyunsu Yim (hyunsu@koreabizwire.com)
