DTE Names SPX Charging Installation Partner For Plug-In Hybrids
Detroit-based DTE Energy announced that it has selected Warren-based SPX Service Solutions as the exclusive provider of turnkey electric vehicle home charging installation services for residential customers participating in the utility's electric vehicle rate program.
SPX Service Solutions will offer home charging installation services for up to 2,500 DTE Energy electric customers in a pilot program offered by the utility. The program offers lower rates for customers to charge electric vehicles, as well as company-provided charging stations and funding towards installation.
"We want to jump-start the plug-in electric vehicle market in Southeastern Michigan," said Trevor Lauer, DTE Energy vice president for marketing and renewables. "DTE Energy is working closely with all the automakers to understand their models and how we can integrate with them to make the PEV experience seamless to our customers."
SPX will provide DTE Energy electric customers with a one-stop shop to select and install the proper equipment to charge their plug-in electric vehicle. As the exclusive provider on the program, the SPX electric vehicle team will manage all aspects of home charging, including home surveys, 240-volt charging stations that reduce the time required to charge electric vehicles, installations, permitting, inspections, coordination with the utility, and post installation services.
"DTE Energy is taking the lead among utility companies preparing themselves for new infrastructure and service requirements in the emerging environment for electric vehicles," said Tanvir Arfi, president of SPX Service Solutions. "SPX is working with utility companies, car manufacturers and other partners worldwide to provide innovative home-charging solutions to meet the needs of this new industry."
Most DTE Energy customers enrolled for service under the reduced rates will receive a separate meter capable of recording the energy used to charge the electric vehicles and the time of day when charging occurs. Eligible customers will be provided two rate options: one with a lower rate for charging during off-peak hours (11 p.m. to 9 a.m. Monday through Friday and around the clock on weekends) and another that provides for a monthly flat fee of $40 per vehicle. DTE Energy can fund up to $2,500 toward a company-provided charging station and separately metered installation.
SPX Service Solutions was also recently selected by GM as the exclusive provider of home-charging services for the Chevrolet Volt, and offers a dedicated customer-service team for electric vehicle programs. SPX Service Solutions has almost 100 years of automotive industry experience and supports car companies and dealerships worldwide with diagnostic equipment, tools and services. With offices around the world, SPX designs, manufactures and markets a fully integrated family of global brands providing special service tools, advanced diagnostic and shop equipment and technical information for vehicle servicing and maintenance.
To learn more about the DTE Energy home charging program, please visit http://dteenergy.com/pev page.
To learn more about SPX Service Solutions, visit www.servicesolutions.spx.com.
