Embracing the Future: EV Charging at New Condominiums
Ubiden Corporation, headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, has recently announced an exciting development in the realm of sustainable living. Their EV charging service, WeCharge, has been incorporated into the new condominium complex, Sapas Okayama Minamigata Grand Oasis, developed by Anabuki Corporation. Located in the northern district of Okayama City, this initiative marks a significant step towards facilitating electric vehicle (EV) ownership and usage in residential areas.
Growth of the EV Market
In recent years, the number of electric vehicles (EVs) on the roads has skyrocketed, increasing by 2.2 times over the last five years. As per reports, this year, the number of EVs has reached approximately 550,000 units in Japan. The demand for home charging solutions, especially in condominium settings, has become more pressing than ever. The Sapas Okayama Minamigata Grand Oasis addresses this need directly by installing individual 200V smart sockets for EV charging in its parking lot, offering residents the convenience and comfort of charging their vehicles at any time—just like in single-family homes.
Key Features of WeCharge Installation
1. Flexible Charging Access
Each parking spot in the condominium will feature a dedicated charging socket, allowing residents to charge their vehicles 24/7 without needing to visit gas stations or public charging areas. This provides a seamless, hassle-free experience.
2. No Cost to Management Associations
Electricity consumed for charging will not incur any costs to the condominium management association. Ubiden manages the power supply directly with energy providers, thus eliminating additional burdens for residents.
3. Reduced Energy Expenses
By utilizing WeCharge services, residents can expect to significantly lower their energy costs compared to traditional gasoline expenses.
4. Cost-Effective Infrastructure
The design of the WeCharge sockets enables a reduction in initial costs. These smart charging solutions are managed collectively to optimize energy distribution, minimizing overall setup and electricity expenses.
5. Future-Proof Energy Services
The integration with the energy grid supports the potential use of renewable energy sources, allowing the project to remain adaptable to future energy innovations.
6. Pay-as-You-Use Model
Utilizing a metered billing system based on kilowatt-hours, residents can choose an energy plan that best fits their lifestyle and usage needs.
7. Comprehensive Customer Support
Ubiden offers 24/7 support via the WeCharge app and website, ensuring that residents can get assistance regarding EV charging any time of the day.
Overview of the Property and EV Charging Facilities
- - Property Name: Sapas Okayama Minamigata Grand Oasis
- - Location: 3-260-5 Minamigata, Kita Ward, Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture
- - Total Units: 48
- - Parking Spaces: 48
- - Completion Date: Scheduled for early November 2025
- - Hand Over Date: Scheduled for mid-January 2026
- - EV Charging Facilities: 5 charging points (3kW output, rated at 200V/20A)
- - Seller: Anabuki Corporation
- - Property Website: Sapas Okayama
Trends in the EV Market and Condominium Charging Needs
The Japanese government's goal to have 100% of new car sales as electric vehicles by 2035 underlines the importance of developing adequate EV charging infrastructure. Research conducted by Nissan has revealed that 74.4% of survey participants indicated that having an EV charger installed in their condominium would increase their willingness to purchase an EV. Moreover, 52.2% stated that they had given up on buying an EV due to a lack of home charging options. This highlights the necessity for effective charging solutions in urban living environments.
In light of this escalating demand, the government has revised its charging infrastructure targets from 150,000 to 300,000 charging points by 2030, with a focus on enhancing installations in multifamily housing units. With WeCharge at the forefront of this initiative, condominium residents will finally enjoy the same freedom of EV choice that homeowners have.
Company Overview
- - Company Name: Ubiden Corporation
- - CEO: Norio Yamaguchi
- - Established: April 19, 2019
- - Headquarters: 1-14 Mita, Minato, Tokyo, Bizflex Azabu Juban, 4th Floor
- - Core Business: Management and operation of the electric vehicle charging service