A New Street Style Icon Launched in Milan
GE Energy Introduces the Iconic WattStation Electric Vehicle Charging System to Europe
MILAN, ITALY- GE (NYSE: GE) chose Milan, the style capital of Italy, for the European launch of its stunning WattStation electric vehicle charger.
Combining functionality with a beautiful form by renowned industrial designer Yves Behar, the GE WattStation significantly decreases time needed for vehicle charging and is an important step towards making electric vehicle ownership a viable option.
Designer Yves Behar says, "Good design is when a new technology enters our life and makes it simpler, beautiful and healthy."
The WattStation was officially launched in Europe at the 'Power-Gen Europe' exhibition at Fiera Milano City, Tuesday, June 7. Todd Johnstone, chief executive officer of GE Energy's Industrial Solutions business in Europe, says, "Major manufacturers are now launching electric cars into the mainstream market, however if they are to find widespread consumer acceptance the power grid must be modernized and charging stations must be accessible, quick and easy.
"GE Energy is bringing a family of charging stations to the European market, offering domestic and commercial users a range of easy to use, flexible and stylish systems to make electric vehicles a practical everyday reality," Johnstone added.
A WattStation greatly increases the efficiency of electric vehicle charging, potentially decreasing the time required from around eight hours, using standard charging systems, to potentially under one hour, assuming a 24 kWh battery and a full-cycle charge. The WattStation supports faster charging by integrating higher voltages and currents that require specialized equipment and connectors.
The WattStation is available in two versions, a free-standing version for use in cities and by businesses and a wall-mounted system for domestic use. The user-friendly design also will accommodate future upgrades as more smart technology such as communication and billing options become available.
GE is a keen supporter of electric vehicles. Last year the company announced plans to purchase 25,000 electric vehicles by 2015 for use as company cars and to lease to corporate customers through its Fleet Services business.
GE's Chief Executive Officer Jeff Immelt said he hoped the purchase would "move electric vehicles from anticipation to action." The WattStation is another important step towards making that vision a reality.
In addition to its growing range of chargers, GE provides the full range of electrical systems and smart grid technology necessary to develop and manage a complete electric vehicle infrastructure. Through its Capital and Fleet Services businesses, GE also is able to provide the financing, vehicles and fleet management knowhow to support the widespread adoption of EV technology.
More information about the GE WattStation is available at:
Global site (English) http://www.ecomagination.com/wattstation
Germany www.ge.com/de/industrialsolutions
France www.ge.com/fr/industrialsolutions
UK www.ge.com/uk/industrialsolutions
Spain www.ge.com/es/industrialsolutions
Italy www.ge.com/it/industrialsolutions
MEA www.ge.com/ex/industrialsolutions
Belgium French www.ge.com/be/fr/industrialsolutions
Belgium Dutch www.ge.com/be/nl/industrialsolutions
Netherlands www.ge.com/nl/industrialsolutions
For trade sales enquires contact Joerg Platzer at GE Energy joerg.platzer@ge.com
Notes
o GE WattStation was recently named PC World's "2011 Best of Innovations Honoree," Electrical Contractor magazine's "NECA Showstopper 2010" and was named one of The Huffington Post's "2011: 15 Awesome Products from the Future." These recognitions are based on revolutionary design and functionality.
o GE WattStation commercial unit stands 120.5cm tall, features a 20 cm diameter cylinder and has a 35.6 cm diameter face.
About GE
GE (NYSE: GE) is an advanced technology, services and finance company taking on the world's toughest challenges. Dedicated to innovation in energy, health, transportation and infrastructure, GE operates in more than 100 countries and employs about 300,000 people worldwide. For more information, visit the company's Web site at www.ge.com.
GE also serves the energy sector by providing technology and service solutions that are based on a commitment to quality and innovation. The company continues to invest in new technology solutions and grow through strategic acquisitions to strengthen its local presence and better serve customers around the world. The businesses that comprise GE Energy ge.com/energy-GE Power & Water, GE Energy Services and GE Oil & Gas-work together with more than 90,000 global employees and 2010 revenues of $38 billion, to provide integrated product and service solutions in all areas of the energy industry including coal, oil, natural gas and nuclear energy; renewable resources such as water, wind, solar and biogas; as well as other alternative fuels and new grid modernization technologies to meet 21st century energy needs.
Media contacts:
GE news
Masto Public Relations
Email: information@mastopr.com
Robin Greer
Communications Manager, GE Energy Industrial Solutions
Phone: + 349331278334
Email: robin.greer@ge.com
