ChargePoint is taking action against criminals who cut electric vehicle charger cables.
ChargePoint proposes the idea: what if electric vehicle cables were more difficult to cut?
ChargePoint has decided to take action against theft at its electric vehicle charging stations, where thieves have been cutting cables to steal copper. To address this issue, the company is developing new cables that are cut-resistant and incorporate alarm systems.
Steve Farrell, Vice President of Product Management at ChargePoint, stated that these new cables utilize patented technology that includes strategically placed steel for added protection. Although this design might make the cables slightly larger and less flexible, Farrell assures that usability will not be compromised and that most users will not notice significant differences. Additionally, the new cables will be installable at commercial charging stations and fleet sites, including both AC and DC models manufactured by the company.
Farrell also mentioned that the cables were tested against tools commonly used for theft, such as wire cutters and power tools, and that ChargePoint was satisfied with the new cables' ability to significantly increase the time and effort required to cut them.
The company plans to license the new cable design to other select manufacturers of electric vehicle chargers that wish to implement this technology to combat copper theft. Vandalism at charging stations is on the rise, adding uncertainty to the already fragile electric vehicle infrastructure in the United States. The new cables are expected to be available for licensing by mid-2025.
In addition to the more robust cables, ChargePoint is launching security software called "ChargePoint Protect," which turns its charging stations into highly effective alarm systems. This software can detect in real-time any attempt to tamper with the cables, activating alarms to deter thieves and sending text and email alerts to station owners.
ChargePoint Protect will work on most of its commercial electric vehicle charger models, with the exception of some older models. This update will be free for station owners, will be delivered wirelessly, and will be available later this month.