DC Fast Charging Explained

AC charging is the simplest way to charge - outlets are everywhere, and almost all EV chargers you encounter at home, in shopping malls, and at work are Level 2 AC chargers. The AC charger feeds the vehicle's onboard charger, which converts the AC power to DC to go into the battery. Acceptance of onboard chargers varies by brand, but is limited by cost, space, and weight. This means that, depending on your vehicle, a full charge at Level 2 charging can take anywhere from four or five hours to over twelve hours.

DC fast charging bypasses all the limitations of the onboard charger and the required conversion, and instead delivers DC power directly to the battery, with the potential to charge much faster. Charging time depends on battery size and the output of the dispenser, among other factors, but many vehicles are able to charge 80% in about an hour or less using most current DC fast chargers.

Currently, there are three types of DC fast charging in North America: CHAdeMO, Combined Charging System (CCS), and Tesla Superchargers.

All major DC charger manufacturers offer multi-standard devices and EV DC charging module that are capable of charging from the same device via CCS or CHAdeMO. Tesla Superchargers can only service Tesla vehicles, but Tesla vehicles are able to use other chargers, specifically CHAdeMO for DC fast charging, via an adapter.

COMBINED CHARGING SYSTEM (CCS)

The Combined Charging System (CCS) is based on an open and universal standard for electric vehicles. CCS combines European and American single-phase AC, three-phase AC and DC high-speed charging capabilities, all in one easy-to-use system.

CCS includes the connector and inlet combination as well as all control functions. It also manages the communication between the electric vehicle and the infrastructure. Therefore, it provides a solution for all charging needs.

CHAdeMO

CHAdeMO is the DC charging standard for electric vehicles. It enables seamless communication between the car and the charger. It was developed by the CHAdeMO Association, which is also responsible for certification, ensuring compatibility between the car and the charger.

The association is open to all organizations working to enable electric vehicles. The association was founded in Japan and currently has hundreds of members from all over the world. In Europe, CHAdeMO members based in the Paris, France chapter actively connect and collaborate with European members.

Tesla Supercharger

Tesla has installed its own dedicated chargers across the country (and the world) to give Tesla cars long-range driving capabilities. They also install chargers in urban areas for drivers to use in their daily lives. Tesla currently has more than 1,600 Supercharger stations in North America.