DC-America’s prefab charging platforms offer flexibility as well as savings

DC-America is addressing one of the most significant challenges in electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure deployment: the lengthy, costly, and inflexible process of charger installation. While hardware and software for EV charging have advanced considerably, the installation phase—requiring extensive site preparation, trenching, and commissioning—remains a major bottleneck. DC-America’s solution involves prefabricated, modular charging platforms mounted on metal skids, which integrate all necessary electrical components and can be connected to power at a single point, dramatically reducing installation time and complexity. Nathan Bowen, President of DC-America, explains that the company leverages its expertise in prefabricated infrastructure from the energy sector to create these turnkey charging stations. The skids are fully assembled, pre-wired, and commissioned at their facility before delivery, enabling deployment in under four hours in most cases. This approach not only accelerates installation but also offers flexibility for businesses facing evolving needs, such as fleet expansion or changes in site usage, by allowing the infrastructure to be relocated without the need for costly underground work. DC-America’s offering occupies a middle ground between permanent and mobile charging solutions. Some units are designed to be semi-permanent, remaining in place for years, while others are small enough to be transported easily on a pickup truck and intended for rapid redeployment. The company customises designs to suit a variety of power configurations, including single-phase sites lacking three-phase power, by incorporating necessary transformers and switchgear into the skid. This adaptability makes the system suitable for diverse applications, from private fleet yards to public charging operators. Looking ahead, DC-America is exploring integration with battery energy storage systems to help manage demand charges and optimise energy use, particularly in public charging contexts. Bowen highlights that the modular skid design also future-proofs installations by allowing hardware upgrades without the need for invasive infrastructure changes. Unlike traditional fixed conduit systems, the open, accessible design facilitates technology refreshes as charging standards and equipment evolve, ensuring long-term viability and cost-effectiveness for operators.