Rising Cable Theft Challenges in the EV Sector
The growth of electric vehicle charging infrastructure brings new challenges, notably the increasing theft of charging cables. Cable theft is a fast-growing problem in the UK, doubling in 2024, mainly due to criminals targeting the valuable copper wiring inside EV charger cables. This criminal activity causes significant disruption for drivers, downtime for charging stations, and economic losses for charge point operators. These issues threaten user confidence and the return on investments in expanding EV networks, necessitating advanced technological and security responses to safeguard charging infrastructure.
InstaVolt’s Innovative GPS Tracking Solution
To address this escalating threat, InstaVolt, a leading public ultra-rapid EV charging network in the UK, has launched a pioneering solution involving live GPS tracking for its charging cables. In partnership with Trackit247, InstaVolt installs GPS devices inside cables to enable real-time tracking of any stolen cables nationwide. Each GPS device sends location updates every three seconds and is geo-fenced to its designated charger site. If a cable moves outside a pre-set perimeter, an instant alert is sent to InstaVolt’s 24/7 security control center. This enables rapid intervention and support for law enforcement efforts.
Complementary Security Measures and Industry Context
InstaVolt’s GPS system complements other innovative anti-theft technologies already deployed across its network. Notably, InstaVolt introduced CableGuard™, a tough and flexible cable sheath embedded with forensic technology that releases a unique traceable liquid if tampered with, linking perpetrators and crime scenes through a police-accessible database. Additionally, AI-powered CCTV and on-site security patrols contribute to a multi-layered defense strategy against cable theft. Industry peers are also responding to this rising concern. Companies like Evolt Charging and Kempower integrating cable alarms and distinct deterrents to protect EV infrastructure.
Delvin Lane, CEO of InstaVolt, emphasized the importance of advanced technologies in protecting EV charging assets and maintaining driver trust. By adopting live GPS tracking and other innovations, InstaVolt aims to set a new industry benchmark for deterring cable theft, securing infrastructure, and assisting law enforcement in investigations. Lane highlighted that protecting EV charging networks is critical to maintaining accessibility and reliability, ensuring drivers can depend on charging facilities whenever and wherever needed.
