Siemens Smart Infrastructure has completed its first successful 1MW charge in a pilot run, which brought together its prototype Megawatt Charging System (MCS) and a long-haul, prototype e-truck from a well-established manufacturer. 

Heavy-duty vehicles are responsible for more than 25% of greenhouse gas emissions from road transport in the EU. MCS charging can contribute towards sustainable, long-distance transport.

Siemens’ SICHARGE MCS prototype consists of multiple UC150 power cabinets, a switching matrix and a customised MCS dispenser. The switching matrix is the central element, bundling the output power of the charging stations and directing power to the MCS dispenser, depending on requirements.

Batteries commonly used in e-trucks can be charged from 20% to 80% in about 30 minutes at a suitable charging station with an output of around 1MW.

Markus Mildner, CEO of e-mobility at Siemens Smart Infrastructure, said: “Especially in long-distance transport, electric trucks and coaches will need fast MCS during the legally prescribed driving-time break. The successful test brings us a big step forward on the technology side and underlines our ambition to make transport more sustainable.”