Porsche opened its first state-of-the-art ‘Porsche Charging Lounge’ in Bingen, Germany, on the 26th (local time) to provide premium charging experiences.
The Porsche Charging Lounge is located just 2 minutes away from the busy A60/A61 freeway interchange, catering specifically to drivers embarking on long trips. Open year-round, it features six 300kW DC charging stations and four 22kW AC charging stations, offering high-performance charging services, a comfortable environment, and straightforward central billing services.
All of Porsche’s electrified models can be charged using powerful chargers manufactured by South Tyrol electronics specialist Alpitronic. The pilot project, which will operate the first Porsche Charging Lounge, provides up to 300kW of power. Upgrades are expected to enhance charging speed to 400kW per station by early next year. Certified renewable energy sources will be used for charging.
Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Board of Management of Porsche AG, stated that “Porsche is working to establish a high-performance, high-density fast charging network to achieve its electrification goal of delivering more than 80% of its vehicles as pure electric cars by 2030” and emphasized that “the exclusive Porsche Charging Lounge will serve as a state-of-the-art charging hub without constraints, playing a significant role in the Ionity network as well as Porsche’s electrification efforts.”
Porsche’s dedicated fast charging stations showcase unique designs that point towards future design directions. A slender roof that appears to float connects the charging station to the building, and the lounge is made entirely of glass from floor to ceiling, creating a seamless connection between the interior and exterior of the building. Bright colors and wooden materials enhance the pleasant atmosphere.
The heating and cooling system operates with a heat pump that does not use fossil fuels, and part of the electricity is sourced from photovoltaic systems installed on the roof. The digital building management system automatically dims the lights when there are no customers, optimizing power consumption.
To ensure a comfortable visit, modern sanitary facilities are available, as well as a variety of snacks and beverages. Payment can be made via debit and credit cards, as well as Apple or Google Pay. Both analog and digital media and high-speed Wi-Fi are accessible. Additionally, after charging, drivers can work out in front of a smart mirror to manage their condition and experience interactive Porsche content.
The Porsche Charging Lounge will be integrated into the Porsche Charging Service and displayed on navigation systems, supporting central billing services. The fee is 33 cents per kWh, which is as reasonable as other Porsche network fast charging stations. A Porsche ID connected to the vehicle is required to use the charging station and lounge space. Vehicle registration numbers can be easily saved in the My Porsche app; if the license plate is stored in the Porsche ID, the barrier will automatically open upon license plate recognition. Alternately, users can access the charging station and lounge using a Porsche charging card or the QR code from the My Porsche app.
Alexander Pollich, Chairman of the Board of Management of Porsche Deutschland GmbH, said, “We plan to extend positive brand experiences for customers’ journeys through the Porsche Charging Lounge” and expressed anticipation for feedback from customers regarding the new format.
The Porsche Charging Lounge is set to expand to Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr