Free2move, a leading mobility solutions provider, has announced the rollout of its partnership with Ample, bringing modular battery swapping technology to the Madrid car-sharing market. 

This collaboration represents a significant step forward in offering a technical solution that further simplifies the use of electric vehicles. Under the programme, Free2move will provide a fleet of Fiat 500e vehicles that can accommodate swappable battery packs provided by Ample. These vehicles will interact with Ample's battery exchange system, enabling a full recharge in under five minutes. The solution offers a flexible and scalable alternative to traditional charging, maximizing fleet availability, reducing operational costs, and minimising reliance on charging infrastructure.

This solution works through integration of its modular batteries, designed as drop-in replacements for original EV batteries, enabling compatibility with various electric vehicle platforms, including other Stellantis models.  Ample-enabled EVs are automatically recognised at swapping stations and drivers can complete a battery swap via a mobile app in less than five minutes.

This initiative provides a good example of how battery swapping technology is likely to become more prevalent in the coming years, especially with car sharing fleets.