Curb-Mounted EV Chargers Roll Out After Successful Urban Trial

Pilot Phase Complete, Mass Rollout Begins

After a successful pilot program in Cologne, the technology is now set for large-scale deployment. The goal is to create additional charging points directly at the curb—particularly for drivers without private wallbox access.

Responsibilities are clearly divided between the two partners: Rheinmetall supplies the hardware, while TankE handles planning, installation, operation, and maintenance. This collaboration aims to enable widespread use in urban areas, though applications in corporate parking lots and rural regions are also planned.

Pilot Project Concludes, Standard Production Underway

The curb-mounted chargers have already undergone real-world testing in Cologne. The year-long field trial served as the basis for final approval, with both companies confirming the system's technical reliability.

The charging points are integrated directly into the curb edge, supporting AC charging at up to 22 kilowatts. Users connect their vehicles via a cable routed from the curb, with access managed through standard methods such as charging cards, apps, or ad-hoc payments.

Addressing Space Constraints and Urban Aesthetics

The core advantage of this technology lies in its use of existing infrastructure. Unlike traditional charging stations, curb chargers require no additional space on sidewalks or parking areas—a critical factor in densely built city centers where space is limited or design regulations apply.

Potential use cases include heritage-protected zones and narrow streets, as well as locations where conventional charging solutions were previously unfeasible.

Technical and Economic Benefits

According to the companies involved, the system offers several practical advantages over standard charging pillars:

• Seamless integration into existing curbs without additional structures
• Modular design with replaceable components
• Reduced maintenance due to easy access to internal parts
• Option to pre-install "dummy curbs" during construction projects
• Minimal visual impact on cityscapes

The charging capacity is deliberately lower than fast-charging systems, easing strain on power grids while aligning with typical multi-hour parking durations.

Everyday Use and Unresolved Questions

For drivers without private parking, this solution could provide a valuable alternative. So-called "streetlight parkers" (those relying on on-street parking) benefit from no longer needing to run cables across sidewalks—a fix for legal and safety concerns tied to makeshift setups.

However, practical questions remain: real-world availability, pricing models, and utilization rates are still unclear. The pilot phase also revealed critiques of the curb-level design, including the need to bend down to connect cables and potential issues with dirt or debris.

Role in Expanding Charging Infrastructure

The curb charger is positioned as a complement to existing systems. Fast chargers along highways and conventional AC stations will remain core components of the network, while this new solution targets space-constrained locations.

As the rollout progresses, its success will hinge on adoption rates, cost efficiency, and municipal implementation. Whether the concept gains traction will depend on how well it meets everyday needs in an evolving charging landscape.