Volkswagen has provided the first glimpse of a mobile charging robot, designed to provide autonomous vehicle charging.

One of the biggest challenges to the wide-scale adoption of fully electric vehicles is a charging infrastructure. With multiple automakers committed to transitioning to electric vehicles within the next two decades, the race is on to provide the charging infrastructure that will be needed.

“A ubiquitous charging infrastructure is, and remains, a key factor in the success of electric mobility. Our charging robot is just one of several approaches, but is undoubtedly one of the most visionary,” explains Thomas Schmall, CEO of Volkswagen Group Components.

Volkswagen’s mobile charging robot, complete with blinking eyes, is designed to charge vehicles in close-quarters areas where a traditional charging station is not an option. The robots may be used in underground garages, restricted parking areas, or other places where space is at a premium.

Users will be able to use to app or Car-to-X communication to summon the robot for charging. Once summoned, the robot will autonomously take over the entire process, including communicating with the vehicle, opening the charging port, plugging in, charging and disconnecting.

“Setting up an efficient charging infrastructure for the future is a central task that challenges the entire sector,” says Schmall. “We are developing solutions to help avoid costly stand-alone measures. The mobile charging robot and our flexible quick-charging station are just two of these solutions.”