August 31, 2011 – In Oshawa, Ont., SPX and Chevrolet launched SPX Home Charging Installation services for Chevrolet Volt customers in Canada, providing an option that can cut charging times for electric vehicle batteries by more than half.

“SPX has worked closely with Chevrolet throughout the launch of the Volt, both in Canada and the U.S., and we have developed robust processes to ensure customer satisfaction with their home charging purchases and installations,” said Tanvir Arfi, president of SPX Service Solutions. “With the majority of a vehicle’s stationary time spent at home, it’s essential that we develop a strong foundation for home charging infrastructure, and we’re happy to deliver that for Volt customers.”

The Volt contains a 16 kWh Li-ion battery pack that takes about 10 hours for a full charge using a regular 120V outlet. By installing a 240V charging station through SPX Home Charging Installation, say the partners, the charge time is reduced to four hours, enabling customers “to take full advantage of the environmental and cost benefits, where applicable, of off-peak charging”.

“As an electric vehicle without compromise, the Chevrolet Volt is transforming the way we approach driving,” said Kevin Williams, president and managing director of General Motors of Canada. “For many customers, the need to use gasoline on a regular basis will be eliminated, and these home-charging services make it easy to enjoy the full benefits of vehicle electrification.”

SPX provides Chevrolet Volt customers with a one-stop, turnkey solution to select and install the proper equipment to charge their plug-in electric vehicle, and is the authorized retailer for Voltec electric vehicle supply equipment in Canada and the U.S. As the exclusive provider on the program, the SPX electric vehicle team will manage all aspects of home charging, including home surveys, installations, permitting, inspections, coordination with utilities and post-installation services.

The Voltec charging station has been designed for residential use with the Volt, and has an MSRP of $490. As an additional option, SPX will also offer its PowerXpress charge station to Volt owners. The PowerXpress has an MSRP of $749, and is available in both a plug-in and hardwired configurations. Installation costs will vary, with SPX offering a range of options depending on home and charging configurations starting at $300. The average installation is expected to cost $1100.

The Volt is currently available to retail customers in the marketing areas for Vancouver, Victoria, Toronto, Oshawa, Ottawa-Gatineau, Montreal and Quebec City, with deliveries starting soon. Within 12 months of the retail launch, Volt will be available at dealerships nation-wide.

CLICK HERE for more information on SPX Home Charging Installation services.