EV charging specialist Solus Power and global defence and security company QinetiQ are collaborating to support the electrification of the defence and security sector by developing mobile battery packs.
Dubbed ‘Jerry Cans of electricity’, the rugged packs are the size of an attaché case, and provide the military with the mobilisation of energy, solving the challenges of powering an electrified fleet in diverse locations and off-grid infrastructure.
Solus Power and QinetiQ have just signed an MOU to explore how to further innovate charging solutions as military fleets race to reduce environmental impact by transitioning to more sustainable energy sources for vehicles and equipment. The strategic partnership aims to research and develop advanced EV charging solutions, appropriate to fleet charging and infrastructure, as well as to the specific needs of the Ministry of Defence (MOD), by leveraging the respective expertise of the two organisations.
Solus Power has developed a cutting-edge mobile charging solution centred around its ‘Kratos’ technology – modular, stackable and easily transported power units, which can be both easily deployed and shared between users. The Lithium-ion power units can deliver ultrafast charging to the likes of EVs, drones, or equipment. Through its innovative and simple modular design, users can scale the number of packs to increase capacity depending on their energy needs.
The collaboration between the two companies sees QinetiQ supporting Solus Power to understand the needs of defence and security customers globally, in addition to providing their expertise in power sources and electrification. QinetiQ has been working with customers in the defence and security industry to understand the challenges, threats and opportunities posed. One such challenge is how to flexibly charge EVs across diverse locations and infrastructural settings, which in some ways mirror the challenges experienced in high demand civilian applications such as airport parking, car hire management and the general operation of car parks.
The focus on mobile EV charging highlights the evolving landscape of defence and security infrastructure, recognising the importance of sustainable and adaptable energy solutions.
