An AI-enabled micro-grid supercharging station, the first of its kind in China, begins trial operations in Taizhou, Zhejiang province, on Jan 28. [Photo/taizhou.com.cn]

An AI-enabled micro-grid supercharging station, the first of its kind in China, commenced trial operations in Taizhou, Zhejiang province, on Jan 28.

Distinguished by its intelligent charging management system, the station can tailor its charging process to suit the specific battery capacity and requirements of electric vehicles. Its liquid-cooled supercharging technology can deliver a maximum power of 600 kilowatts, allowing for an 80 percent charge in just 5 minutes — a substantial advancement compared to traditional charging methods.

"The speed is remarkable. It used to take me 30 to 40 minutes to fully charge my car, but now 20 minutes is sufficient," exclaimed a local car owner surnamed Zhou.

Beyond its intelligent supercharging capabilities, the station integrates photovoltaic power generation, energy storage, AI unmanned operation, and reverse discharging functionalities.

With the capacity to generate up to 40,000 kilowatt-hours annually through photovoltaic panels, the station ensures uninterrupted power supply during nighttime and in conditions without sunlight, guaranteeing convenient charging for electric vehicle users at all times.

"At this station, we have also implemented an AI unmanned operation system, which provides 24-hour monitoring and early warnings based on the real-time status of charging equipment, fire-fighting facilities, and more," explained Song Xi, manager of Jiaojiang City Development Public Parking Management Co Ltd. "Additionally, we are planning to enable the reverse charging function, enabling car owners to earn fees by supplying power to the station."

In addition, the charging station offers personalized services. An adjacent rest station is equipped with air conditioning, hot and cold drinking water, sofas, smart TVs, and free WiFi. Vehicle owners can relax and wait inside the station while their cars are being charged.

This year, multiple similar charging stations will be constructed in the urban area of Jiaojiang, as well as in towns and sub-districts such as Xiachen and Zhang'an, alleviating the range anxiety of citizens with new energy vehicles.