Volvo introduces portable battery system with built-in DC fast charger

Volvo Energy has unveiled a new mobile battery energy storage system (BESS) that it says can be connected to the grid or used in island mode, and which comes with an integrated 240kW DC fast charger that can charge heavy-duty trucks, electric vehicles (EVs), and tools.

The Volvo PU500 BESS is described as a “new mobile power unit designed to meet the growing demand for flexible, reliable power in the Scandinavian market.”

Whether used in grid-connected mode or in island mode as a single battery, the PU500 is equipped with a battery capacity of between 450 to 540kWh and can be customised to meet the needs of each specific customer – whether that be powering a remote construction site, temporary event, or any other location that needs reliable energy.

Importantly, however, the PU500 also comes with an integrated 240kW DC fast charger that can recharge a heavy-duty truck in only 1.5 hours.

When fully charged, the battery can charge up to 3 electric heavy-duty trucks, or 20 EVs each day.

“With an integrated CCS2 charger, the PU500 is designed to work with all brands of electric equipment, trucks, and passenger cars,” said Niklas Thulin, head of BESS product offer at Volvo Energy.

“This ensures that no matter what type of electric vehicle or machinery you rely on, the PU500 can provide the power you need, making it a truly flexible solution for any grid constrained site or location.”

The PU500 also features a power boosting feature, which allows the unit to continue charging itself even with low power form the grid, while also charging vehicles or machinery when needed.

Volvo expects this particular power boost feature will be particularly useful for remote locations or situations where grid power is intermittent.

“The PU500 is a reliable, adaptable, and efficient solution designed to meet the needs of businesses and industries that require flexible power options,” said Elisabeth Larsson, head of sales and services at Volvo Energy.

“Whether for remote sites, electric vehicle fleets, or construction projects, the PU500 ensures you have the power you need, when you need it.”

Volvo also revealed that it is planning to expand the PU500’s capabilities with the introduction of digital services that will allow customers and users to monitor and schedule the unit’s operations.