ChargePoint Unveils Cut-Resistant Cables to Combat EV Charger Theft

ChargePoint's Innovative Solutions Against EV Charger Vandalism

ChargePoint is tackling the growing issue of vandals stealing copper from EV charger cables. To counteract this, the company is introducing new cut-resistant cables and implementing alarm systems designed to deter such criminal activities.

Cut-Resistant Cables: A New Defense

Steve Farrell, ChargePoint's VP of Product Management, stated that the new cables utilize a patent-pending technology featuring strategically placed steel. This innovation aims to provide enhanced protection while maintaining usability, ensuring that most users "will not notice the difference" despite a slight increase in size and flexibility.

These advanced cables are compatible with both AC and DC models and can be retrofitted onto commercial and fleet charging stations. Tested against common cutting tools such as wirecutters and bolt cutters, ChargePoint is confident these cables will significantly increase the time and effort required to vandalize.

Licensing and Availability

ChargePoint plans to license its new cable design to select EV charger manufacturers looking to bolster their own infrastructure against theft. The new cables are anticipated to be available for licensing by mid-2025, enhancing the overall reliability of electric vehicle charging stations in the US.

ChargePoint Protect: Real-Time Security Software

In addition to stronger cables, ChargePoint is launching ChargePoint Protect, a security software solution that transforms EV stations into effective alarm systems. This software can detect cable tampering in real-time, triggering alarms that deter thieves and sending immediate text and email alerts to station owners.

ChargePoint Protect will be compatible with most existing commercial charging models, excluding some older ones, and will be offered as a free over-the-air update, available later this month.

Conclusion

ChargePoint’s innovations in cut-resistant cables and real-time security software are significant steps towards protecting EV infrastructure from vandalism and theft. With these advancements, ChargePoint is pushing to improve the reliability and safety of electric vehicle charging stations nationwide.