Finnish charger manufacturer Kempower has launched forensic countermeasures designed to deter vandalism and theft targeting public charging cables. The company partnered with Formula Space to deploy “CableGuard” systems across its charging infrastructure.
Cable thefts around Europe have doubled since 2023, according to Kempower officials. Thieves target public EV chargers to steal valuable copper from the cables.
The thefts create safety risks for drivers while imposing significant costs on chargepoint operators.
Kempower has become the first charger manufacturer to approve Formula Space’s CableGuard system. The technology uses forensic traceability to identify anyone who tampers with charging cables.
How the System Works
The CableGuard features a cut-resistant sleeve made without steel components. When someone tampers with a cable, the device releases a uniquely identifiable fluid at high pressure.
The fluid coats the perpetrator and their belongings. It’s invisible to the naked eye but becomes visible under UV light.
Each device contains fluid with a unique chemical signature. Police can access information through a shared database that links criminals to specific charge points.
Kempower already uses other anti-theft measures including cut-proof cable surrounds and on-device alarms. The company supplies chargers to operators like Osprey in the UK.
“A key element to driving forward the EV transition is instilling in people a feeling of trust and confidence in available charging infrastructure,” said Lee Barnett, Kempower’s solutions and service manager for the UK and Ireland.
Rising crime involving charging cables damages both EV charging businesses and public perceptions, according to Barnett.
“We chose to lead the way and become Formula Space’s testing partner for CableGuard so we could offer our customers and partners a solution we truly believe in,” he added.
Testing and Development
Formula Space conducted extensive testing with Kempower before launching the system. The testing phase ensured compatibility with various charging infrastructure types.
Vern Pollard, director of Formula Space, said the company needed a testing partner with significant experience in physical charging infrastructure.
“We’re proud to say that, after extensive trialling and research, CableGuard has had Kempower’s seal of approval and will provide an extra layer of security to its customers,” Pollard stated.
The system has been successfully tested on Kempower-supplied Osprey chargers in the UK. The forensic technology represents a new approach to combating the growing problem of cable theft at public charging stations.
