The escalating issue of electric vehicle (EV) charging cable theft, driven by the high value of copper, is imposing significant costs on charging operators. Repairing damaged infrastructure can run into thousands of dollars, with downtime often lasting weeks, leading to substantial revenue loss.
Innovative Solutions to Deter and Trace Cable Thieves
In response to this growing problem, DeterTech, known for its SmartWater forensic marking technology, has joined forces with Formula Space. The collaboration aims to integrate SmartWater’s capabilities into Formula Space’s CableGuard system, creating a dual-layer defense against EV cable theft. This partnership focuses on both deterring criminals and ensuring they can be traced and prosecuted.
CableGuard: A Physical Deterrent
Formula Space’s patented CableGuard system is designed to make EV charging cables considerably more difficult to cut than standard alternatives. Engineered for straightforward installation on both new and existing charging points, CableGuard functions as a visible deterrent and a robust physical barrier without compromising charger performance.
SmartWater: The Forensic Traceability Layer
Should thieves manage to overcome the physical protection offered by CableGuard, SmartWater provides a secondary layer of security. Upon the cutting of a marked cable, the system releases a powerful jet of SmartWater onto the perpetrators and their tools. This forensic liquid allows law enforcement to identify the offenders and link them directly to the crime scene. The system is already being deployed by EV charge point operators.
Proven Track Record in Crime Prevention
SmartWater technology has a history spanning over three decades. Formula Space highlights its effectiveness, citing a past application where Toyota utilized the technology to achieve a 57% reduction in catalytic converter thefts, accompanied by a 100% conviction rate in court cases where the defense was contested.
Industry Expert Commentary
Gary Higgins, DeterTech’s Director of Security & Risk, stated, “Our crime intelligence analysts have identified a sharp rise in EV cable theft, and we expect this trend to accelerate as charging networks expand globally. By integrating SmartWater with CableGuard, we’re giving operators a highly effective solution to protect critical assets.”
Vern Pollard, Director of Client Relations at Formula Space, added, “CableGuard was developed to address the growing issue of cable theft. Combining it with SmartWater takes protection to the next level.”
The partnership between DeterTech and Formula Space signals a significant advancement in safeguarding EV charging infrastructure against theft.