Trojan Energy | Flat-and-Flush EV Charger

We partnered with Trojan Energy to develop an innovative on-street electric vehicle (EV) charging system designed to support increased access to EVs in urban environments and promote a greener future.

Designed to serve the needs of city dwellers in densely populated areas, the system is optimised to withstand the challenges of urban life – from vandalism to crowded pavements – and does so in an understated way, maintaining the character of the streets and neighbourhoods.

The flat-and-flush system designed by PDD in partnership with Trojan Energy integrates robust, weather and vandal-proof mechanisms that ensure safe and effective charging at 22kW from the on-street 3-phase power supply. Customers use an attachable lance which connects their vehicle to a flat-and-flush charge point in the street, allowing discreet charging at the roadside. The system is controlled via an app which also notifies users when charging points become available in their area.

Importantly, the system incorporates input from Disability Rights UK to improve safety for all street users. It underwent rigorous testing during the design process to ensure it could withstand all weather conditions and the wear and tear of being on heavily pedestrianised streets.

The project presented an exciting challenge from a design and technical perspective. Right from the start, the team at PDD had to address seemingly conflicting needs and develop a solution that is strong and sturdy but light; and discreet and compact when not in use, yet easily visible when charging.

The team at PDD worked in close collaboration with Trojan throughout the development process, from the review of regulatory requirements, development of concepts and testing of prototypes to specification for manufacture, tooling liaison and production support. The project required multidisciplinary collaboration to ensure an effective balance of usability, functionality and aesthetic appeal.

The first roll-out of the EV charge points was completed in 2021, with residents of select streets across the London boroughs of Camden and Brent accessing the charging systems. In addition to expanding into new cities across the UK, Trojan Energy has also developed the AON system which allows homeowners to access an EV charge point on their doorstep powered by their domestic electricity supply.

To find out more about the charging system, please visit Trojan Energy.

In the media: 

Engineering Magazine: Streets Ahead.

Design Week: PDD collaborates with Trojan Energy to create hidden EV charging points

The Engineer: Power Surge.