BRICS Solution Awards

LEVITAN. EV Charging station

Problem and implemented solution

The trend towards electric vehicles is growing. Regulators around the world are setting stricter targets for CO₂ emissions, which is stimulating a shift to cleaner fuels. The widespread adoption of electric vehicles is impossible without the development of charging infrastructure. Most charging stations have similar technical characteristics and appearance. However, they often lack aesthetics (they don't blend into the urban environment, and don't look technological or eco-friendly) or user convenience (lack of comfort compared to gas stations, short, heavy, and dirty cables, inconvenient interfaces, incompatible connectors, lack of information on charging status). The LEVITAN line of charging stations addresses all of these issues. Its simple but modern appearance and sleek design give it a distinct identity, setting it apart from the bulky charging stations currently on the market. It integrates seamlessly into diverse urban environments while remaining easily visible to electric vehicle drivers.

Shortlist
Russia
Nomination

Cognitive technologies and Creative economy

Topic

Industrial design solution for a technological product

Estimated duration of implementation

1. Production: 3-4 months. This includes purchasing components, assembly, testing and preparation for shipping. 2. Implementation (installation and commissioning): 2-3 months. This time includes site preparation, obtaining necessary permits, installing equipment, connecting to the power grid and testing. Thus, the full cycle from the start of production to commissioning can take from 5 to 7 months.

Implementation geography

Russian Federation and other BRICS countries

Description of competitive advantages

FUNCTIONALITY AND AESTHETICS. The Levitan line of chargers has an instantly recognizable shape, materials and size. The simple but modern appearance and laconic form give the station individuality and distinguish it from the massive charging stations presented on the market. MODULARITY. The modular design allows for easy production of all product variants, from compact wall-mounted units to larger column-style charging stations. DIMENSIONS. The size of the stationary module is 50x50 cm, so the structure does not exceed 2-2.5 meters (in the case of a high flashlight). This makes the station visible from afar. The charging gun is conveniently located at the level of a person's hands, and the interface is at eye level. The home station is more compact - 40x40 cm. MATERIALS. Charging stations designed for use in public places are made of stainless steel and aluminum. This combination of different metals not only gives them a high-quality appearance, but also provides protection against vandalism and corrosion. The minimum number of decorative elements also increases durability in various weather conditions, such as snow, rain and dust. SEAMLESS USER EXPERIENCE. The principle of minimalism also affected the way you interact with the charging station. You can use it by performing a minimum number of actions. You just need to download the mobile application. Arrive, charge, leave. LANGUAGE OF LIGHT. The illumination of the upper translucent block creates a refreshing image of the energy of the future, additionally reminding about the eco-friendliness of the fuel used. In addition to the decorative effect, it also serves as a user interface that intuitively informs the driver of the charge stage. In the evening, the charging station also functions as a lantern. Various types of green plants inside create the atmosphere of a park area, pleasing to the eye in any weather and time of year. CABLE. Levitan is equipped with adjustable cables that are extended using a pulley system when the driver disconnects the gun from the charging station. After use, the cable automatically retracts, staying clean. The connectors are protected from moisture and other environmental influences due to the recessed holder of the charging gun, and the elegant illumination of the connectors creates a pleasant futuristic effect. In the case of the home compact station, a spiral cable is used, which provides the necessary length and stays clean. The color of the cable is deliberately chosen light to further mimic the material of the device itself, remain invisible and not draw attention to itself. PARKING ACCOMMODATION. Outdoor stations equipped with multiple connectors should be placed at the junction of parking spaces for convenient charging of several electric vehicles at once. Fast direct current (DC) stations allow charging up to 4 electric vehicles simultaneously.

List of awards and prizes, media articles about the organization/individual or the Practice

The LEVITAN project was shortlisted for the "Best Industrial Design of Russia 2024" award from the Moscow Department of Investment and Industrial Policy. Alexey Golovanov was awarded the New Blood D&AD 2014.

List of scientific works and IP connected with the Practice

N.A.

Contacts

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