As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular, one of the most frequently asked questions is about the speed of EV charging stations. Understanding how fast these stations charge your vehicle is crucial for convenience and planning.

The charging speed of EV stations depends on several factors, including the type of charger, the battery size, and how much charge is already in the battery.

When I first started thinking about electric cars, one of my main concerns was how long it would take to charge. It’s essential to understand the different types of chargers and their speeds. Let’s break down the details of EV charging speeds¹ and what affects them.

How to understand EV charging speeds?

What do we need to know about EV charging speeds?

EV charging speed depends on the type of charger, the battery capacity, and the state of the battery when charging begins.

There are three main types of EV chargers: Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast chargers². Level 1 chargers are the slowest and typically use a standard home outlet. Level 2 chargers³ are faster and are commonly found at public charging stations. DC fast chargers are the fastest and can significantly reduce charging time. Understanding these speeds will help you decide which charger is best for your needs. Additionally, the battery size and its current state (how full it is) also affect how fast your EV can charge.

Types of EV Chargers and Their Speeds

How fast are EV fast charging stations?

What is the charging speed of fast charging stations?

Fast charging stations (DC fast chargers) are significantly faster than regular chargers, providing up to 100 miles of range in just 20-30 minutes.

DC fast chargers are designed to charge your EV quickly. These chargers use direct current (DC) to bypass the vehicle's onboard charger, providing a faster charge. Depending on the charging station and your vehicle’s battery, a DC fast charger can add about 60 to 100 miles of range in just 20 to 30 minutes. These chargers are ideal for long road trips or when you’re in a hurry and need to get back on the road quickly.

What is the 80% rule for EV charging?

What does the 80% rule⁴ mean when charging an electric vehicle?

The 80% rule refers to the idea that most EV owners charge their vehicles to about 80% of the battery’s capacity, as the last 20% of charging takes longer.

Most EVs charge quickly up to about 80%, but charging the remaining 20% takes longer due to the way batteries work. As the battery fills up, the charging process slows down to prevent overcharging and damage to the battery. This is why the 80% rule is common in EV charging. Many drivers choose to stop charging at 80%, especially when using fast chargers, to save time and preserve battery health.

Charging Efficiency

How fast is a 150kW charging station?

What is the charging speed of a 150kW charging station⁵?

A 150kW charger is a type of DC fast charger that can provide up to 150kW of power, allowing it to charge an EV much faster than slower chargers.

A 150kW charging station is capable of adding up to 150 kilometers of range in just 15-20 minutes. This type of charger is suitable for high-performance vehicles or longer road trips, where quick charging is essential. The charging time will vary depending on the vehicle's battery capacity and state of charge, but a 150kW charger is one of the fastest options available today.

150kW Charging Speed

Conclusion

Understanding the speed of EV charging stations is key to managing your time and planning trips. With fast chargers, like the 150kW stations, you can significantly reduce charging time, but knowing when to stop at 80% and understanding different charger types will help you make the most of your EV's charging experience.