RCD helps the Mini E plug into the future of motoring
The Mini E is the first car to use latest generation lithium-ion technology and the result is a fully electric prototype. Forty drivers have been recruited for the first wave of UK field trials, which are now taking place in the Oxfordshire area, and BMW has worked with Scottish & Southern Energy and SEEDA (South East England Development Agency) to ensure the re-charging infrastructure is in place to support the trial.
Electrical contractor, SEC, was responsible for installing all the electrical re-charge points which are located at the homes and workplaces of the trial group, along with key locations, such as car parks and shopping centres, within the field trial area. These 32 amp charge points will re-charge the cars from zero in 4.5 hours but each driver has also been provided with the Powerbreaker in-line RCD unit from GreenBrook to allow them to plug the vehicle in to any 13amp socket, which will re-charge the vehicle in 10 hours.
Dave Edney from SEC explains: "Protecting the trial volunteers from any spikes in current when they are charging the vehicles using a 13amp socket was all part of the brief. The PowerBreaker J62 in-line RCD is a fully portable RCD that will protect both the volunteers and the cars from any current leakage and as the market leader it was the natural choice for the driver kit."
Suitable for use even in adverse weather conditions, the Powerbreaker J62 offers double pole protection and has separate test and reset buttons. As with all other RCDs in the PowerBreaker range, the J62 trips within 40 milliseconds of a current leakage of 30mA or greater.
Phil Hazleton, technical manager at GreenBrook, said: "The Mini E trial is a high profile project that could mark the beginning of a sea change in car design and lead the way for the future of electric vehicles. We are delighted that our PowerBreaker RCDs are playing such an important role in facilitating the trial and ensuring the safety of the trial volunteers."
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