The Centre for Engineering and Manufacturing Excellence (CEME) launched yet another innovative piece of manufacturing today (6 July) as the Rainham based education and business campus welcomed transport minister Norman Baker to unveil a new solar assisted electric vehicle charging facility. 

The system, which is known as eTap, will allow users of electric vehicles who visit CEME to charge their vehicles at convenient locations on site, with plans to install further charging points at suitable locations across Rainham. 

eTap was developed and installed by Essex based company Use the Sun.  It provides a mix of solar and mains electric power to charge up to six electric vehicles.  It has 45 solar panels, which supply electricity to a central distribution point where it is routed to the car chargers with excess demand being met through the national grid.  The Ford Transit Connect Electric, Ford's first electric vehicle to be made available in Europe is to be the first car to use the eTap technology

Speaking at the launch Bill Williams, Chief Executive of CEME said;

"We are delighted to be hosting the launch of the eTap, another 'UK first' at CEME's campus demonstrating our role at the heart of the innovative manufacturing sector. The eTap is further evidence of the continuing growth and development of high-tech industries which CEME supports through our apprenticeships programme and provision of dedicated, high quality space to pioneering businesses."

For more information please contact either Alistair Scott, Head of Sales and Marketing - CEME or Charles Montlake - Use the Sun.