Adrian J Cotterill, Editor-in-Chief
Swiftmile is set to debut e-bike charging stations throughout New York this week as part of the DOT Studio, a collaboration between the New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) and Newlab.
The effort is paramount to NYC DOT’s e-bike charging pilot program, an initiative that will explore implementation strategies to guide New York’s future for public e-bike charging. Additionally, the program will gather feedback from delivery workers. Developed through the DOT Studio, a collaborative effort involving a partnership with NYC DOT, the New York City Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and Newlab, a venture platform focused on climate and deep tech, the pilot has been refined over the past six months. After a global search, Newlab and NYC DOT, in partnership with its fire department and delivery workers, identified three companies to deploy unique, safe, and convenient e-battery charging options in the public right of way; Swiftmile was selected to focus on providing a solution for direct vehicle charging.
Over the past three years, New York has faced a significant challenge with over 220 fires caused by substandard lithium-ion battery chargers. NYC DOT is urgently seeking solutions to safeguard its constituents. Manufactured in the USA, Swiftmile’s technology ensures safe battery charging by detecting when a battery reaches full charge, then shutting off the power – preventing overcharging and associated hazards like overheating. This proactive approach results in a prolonged battery lifespan. Additionally, this method potentially enhances convenience for a select group of the City’s approximately 65,000 delivery workers, given the simplicity of the charging process.
“Combating battery charging hazards has always been our priority since we first developed our charging technology,” said Colin Roche, CEO of Swiftmile. “We’re glad to be working with similar minded folks like NYC DOT and Newlab who share our mission to help mitigate the risks that have been discouraging delivery workers from using electric bikes”.
Swiftmile’s participation in NYC DOT’s e-bike charging initiative marks a significant step forward in ensuring the safety of electric bicycle battery charging infrastructure. By collaborating with key stakeholders and leveraging innovative technology, Swiftmile is positioned to not only address pressing safety concerns but also implement the first direct micromobility charging ecosystem in the City. As the six month pilot program progresses and feedback is gathered, Swiftmile hopes to continue to advance sustainable transportation solutions that prioritize safety, efficiency, and accessibility for all.
#ff @NYCEDC @Newlab @goswiftmile
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