An apparatus for energy storage device exchange includes a central pillar; a first carrier that is mounted on the central pillar for motion generally parallel to and around a generally vertical working axis, and that is configured to engage a lifting structure of an energy storage device; at least one motor; and a controller configured to operate with the at least one motor to: rotate the first carrier around the working axis to a removal position adjacent to the lifting structure of the energy storage device mounted on a vehicle; engage the first carrier with the lifting structure and lift the energy storage device generally along the working axis; rotate the first carrier around the working axis to a deposit position adjacent to an energy storage device receptacle; and lower the first carrier generally along the working axis to deposit the energy storage device at the energy storage device receptacle.