Ultra-Fast Charging Stations for Electric Cars

Odense, Køge and other locations across Denmark

GOAL no. 9, 11, 12

With more electric cars on the roads, we need more and faster charging stations. However, a charging station can also be a place to recharge mentally.

The impact of electrified mobility will change how our cities look, feel and organize themselves. In a Danish context, electric vehicles are considered close to 100 per cent clean. An estimated 70 per cent of the energy production in Denmark is based on renewable sources, with 40 per cent from wind alone.

The traditional petrol station is dominated by hardscape asphalt surfaces. The clean charging technology offers an unprecedented potential for a much cleaner environment, as there are no toxic fumes or oil leaking onto the paving. Cobe and Clever have developed an ultra-fast charging station modular kit, including structural components and surface and landscape elements scalable for different contexts and conditions. The canopy is constructed for future disassembly to enable reuse and upcycling of materials.

The charging station is the first of its kind. So far, it has been installed at ten locations in Denmark, and multiple stations are being equipped. The long-term plan is the development of a Scandinavian network. The charging stations minimize charging time and offer a refreshing break for drivers and passengers.

Constructed primarily of FSC-certified wood with solar cells on top, the charging station consists of several structural ‘trees’ forming a ‘crown’. The large roof consists of open and closed panels and filter light and offer shade as ‘trees’ while the car battery recharges. The stations are surrounded by plant and tree species selected in cooperation with the Danish Society for Nature Conservation to promote local biodiversity.

This project demonstrates that it is possible to create a charging station that provides a meaningful break for EV drivers while also making a positive contribution to the environment and biodiversity.

Project details

Where: 11 locations in Denmark; Odense, Knudshoved, Køge, Frederiksberg, København, Esbjerg, Fredericia, Vejle, Århus, Thisted and Nørresundby see: cobe.dk/place/ultra-fast-charging-stations-for-electrical-cars

Completed: the first charging station was constructed in 2019

Client: Clever

Architects and advisors: Cobe, Arup (engineer) and AB Clausen (engineer)