AeroVironment will install the fast charging stations along a 150-mile span of the I-5. The stations will be placed at convenient locations and will allow drivers to recharge their electric vehicles from a fully-discharged state in less than 30 minutes.

AeroVironment’s Level 3 fast charging stations are CHAdeMO compliant and so compatible with fast-charge capable EV models such as the Nissan LEAF.

AeroVironment will analyze driving distances, common destinations, vehicle range and other factors in its selection of the EV fast charging sites at eight interchanges identified by ODOT along a 150-mile segment of the I-5 in Southern Oregon. The company is also experienced in working with utilities and will collaborate with local utilities to prepare for the deployment. The company anticipates installing the fast charging stations along the highway by the end of this fall.

The project is funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) awarded through the State Energy Program (SEP). The US Department of Energy administers the funds, approves the projects and reviews the state’s progress.

Oregon was named in 2009 as one of seven test markets for the largest deployment of electric vehicles (EVs) and the associated charging infrastructure yet, the EV Project.

In addition to 480-volt fast charging stations AeroVironment also provides J-1772 compliant 240-volt Level 2 charging stations, installation and support services and data communications network services. More than 2,000 AeroVironment Level 2 charging stations have been installed in 21 US states since late 2010.