JAF to Offer Roadside Assistance Charging for EVs

As it is about to become the electric vehicle nation-capital of the world, Japan is increasing its efforts to make EVs happen, stick, and eventually replace internal combustion engines altogether. The Japan Automobile Federation (JAF), with the help of manufacturer Nissan, is currently conducting a very interesting experiment on the roads of Japan, aimed at diminishing the dreaded range anxiety.

Since there is still a long time left until electric vehicle chargers become as common place as gas stations, Nissan and JAF are testing a concept of roadside electric vehicle charging. Meaning that a JAF assistance vehicle has been equipped with a charging station, ready to be deployed and help the stranded motorists.

For the remainder of the year, the assistance vehicle will be deployed and tested in the Kanagaw region, with plans being to make this kind of assistance vehicles a common sight on the roads of tomorrow. No details on how many such vehicles will be deployed have been given.

“As EVs gain wider consumer acceptance, it is important to create a roadside assistance system that can help motorists driving EVs which have run out of battery power, as well as to build a charging infrastructure,” said Hitoshi Kawaguchi, Nissan's senior vice president of External and Governmental Affairs.

“Nissan is leveraging the development and trial operation of this roadside service vehicle with charging equipment – and the accompanying staff training – to strengthen cooperation with JAF and to benefit customers. This will build confidence in EV use and contribute toward achieving a society with low carbon emissions."