ZipCharge launches suitcase-sized powerbank for EVs

ZipCharge introduced a new charging product designed for electric vehicles that can help convince people with range anxiety about switching from gas to electric cars. The British startup debuted the ZipCharge Go at the Cop26 climate summit. It looks like it's the size of a carry-on suitcase and weighs around 50 pounds. It has wheels and a retractable handle, allowing you to put it in your trunk.

The ZipCharge Go can provide up to 20 miles of range after plugging into the car for 30 minutes. There's a higher-capacity version that gets up to 40 miles of range. It works with any plug-in hybrid or EV with a Type 2 socket. It can charge a vehicle to its total capacity between 30 minutes to an hour.

To charge the Go, you just need to plug it into a socket. You can control and monitor it through an app. You can also schedule future charges during off-peak hours for cheaper costs.

ZipCharge isn't selling the Go yet, but the startup plans to release a 4kWh and 8kWh version. It plans to begin deliveries in the fourth quarter of 2022. It can be leased for at least £49 per month, but there are also options to purchase it. ZipCharge hasn't released pricing yet. According to The Sunday Times Driving, the company plans to sell it for around the same cost as a 7.2kW home charging port installation.

Source: Engadget