What's Broken in EV Charging And How to Fix It

When we talk about the electric vehicle (EV) revolution, the focus is usually on:

· Battery range

· Autonomous driving

· Tech-savvy software

But one major pain point often gets ignored: installing EV chargers

The process involves:

· Digging trenches

· Avoiding underground utilities

· Pouring concrete

· Managing weather delays

These challenges slow down the rollout of charging infrastructure.

The Solution: EV Blocks

In a recent episode of Auto Futurecast, Chris interviews Trevor Palmer, founder of EV Blocks, to uncover how a pre-cast concrete foundation innovation is simplifying EV charger installations.

Meet Trevor Palmer

Started as an electrician in London, running a contracting business

Transitioned to EV installations for Volkswagen showrooms

Faced constant delays due to on-site concrete pouring, weather issues, and underground complications

The Breakthrough Idea

Trevor realized the bottleneck: wet concrete setting on-site.His solution: a pre-made foundation that eliminates drying time and weather delays, transforming a slow process into an efficient one.

Why EV Blocks Work

Key Benefits:

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Pre-cast foundation: Saves time and eliminates weather-related delays

Universal adapter plate: Future-proofs installations, allowing easy charger upgrades (e.g., from Tesla to Kempower)

Modular design: Simplifies cable installation and upgrades

Built-in security: Protects cables from theft before chargers are installed

Smart Manufacturing for Global Scale

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Scaling a heavy product like a 180kg concrete block is challenging. Trevor’s solution?

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· License designs: Partner with local pre-cast producers to reduce shipping costs

· Adapt to local needs: Example: U.S. blocks are designed for deeper frost lines

Today, EV Blocks operates in the U.K., U.S., France, Belgium, and Australia.

The Shift to Modular EV Charging

The future of EV infrastructure is moving away from bulky “all-in-one” chargers to modular systems

· A central power cabinet feeds smaller, cheaper satellite units

· Benefits:

· Lower repair costs for damaged satellites

· Scalability as site owners add chargers over time

· With EV Blocks, adding or upgrading satellite units is fast and cost-effective.

Trevor Palmer’s Journey

Trevor’s story is a testament to resilience:

Launched EV Blocks two days before COVID lockdowns

· Worked full-time while running EV Blocks at night to support his family

· Scaled production from small runs to 80 blocks per truckload

EV Blocks and the Future of EV Charging

Trevor’s approach to simplifying infrastructure with smart engineering highlights how practical solutions can drive the EV revolution.

The Road Ahead:

· U.S. expansion: Launching a DC-specific foundation at the EV Summit in Las Vegas

· Federal funding for EV corridors makes pre-cast solutions more critical than ever

Key Takeaways for EV Enthusiasts and Developers

· Speed up installations: Pre-cast foundations save time and reduce costs

· Future-proof infrastructure: Universal designs make upgrading chargers easy

· Embrace modular systems: Scalable setups lower repair expenses and expand with demand

The EV revolution isn’t just about cars—it’s about the foundations that support them. With EV Blocks, charging infrastructure is faster, smarter, and built for the future.

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