EV Charging: Is 450kW Supercharging Really Needed?

With advancements in electric vehicle (EV) technology, the conversation around the necessity of 450kW supercharging is increasingly relevant. In this article, we explore the current state of EV charging, the benefits and implications of supercharging, and whether it truly serves the needs of most EV owners.

Personal Experiences with EVs and Supercharging

My recent experience driving over 11,000 miles in an electric vehicle (EV) with a range under 150 miles in just 7 months has led me to reflect on the use of supercharging. Out of those 7 months, I only utilized a supercharger three times. This experience prompted me to ask the question: Is 450kW charging truly necessary?

For drivers with EVs like the Chevrolet Bolt or Tesla Model 3, which have ranges under 150 miles, a supercharger might seem like an unnecessary expense. My own EV has a relatively slow Level 3 charging capability, but it was more than adequate during a recent trip. Connecting to the charger, using the restroom, stretching my legs, and then getting back on the road within 20 minutes was a breeze.

The Impact on Battery Technology

A critical question to consider is how supercharging affects battery longevity. As Lance mentioned, there are two facets to charging: how quickly you can deliver charge and how much the battery can withstand. With improvements in battery technology, supercharging can be advantageous for those without dedicated home charging stations. However, the current performance of supercharging is still a point of discussion.

Examples of Current Supercharging Capabilities

The Porsche Taycan, which was supposed to handle 800V battery packs and 350kW charging, could only achieve 250kW. Similarly, Tesla's V3 Superchargers can deliver 250kW, but only for a limited time before the charge rate dips. During peak charging periods, Tesla can provide approximately 1,000 miles of range per hour, effectively adding 3 hours of driving in 20 minutes for a car with about 10% battery charge.

Overkill or Necessity?

With the availability of 250kW charging, the question arises: Is there a real need for 450kW charging? Even if vehicles can accept this higher charging rate, the infrastructure required for 450kW charging stations is substantial. For example, 8 450kW charging stations would require a feed of 3.6 MW. On-site battery storage could mitigate this, but the idea of 3-minute fill-ups every 4 hours is arguably excessive for most EV drivers.

Commercial and Economic Considerations

From a commercial and economic standpoint, the question of whether 450kW charging stations should be built also comes into play. If a 450kW charging station is placed next to a 150kW charging station and charges three times as much for the same amount of driving in 5 minutes versus 15 minutes, the market response might be minimal. Most consumers are unlikely to opt for the 5-minute charger when the longer charging time provides the same benefits at a potentially lower cost.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while 450kW supercharging might seem like a futuristic necessity, its practicality is questionable. The current capabilities of supercharging, which are already impressive, provide sufficient range gains within a reasonable timeframe. As battery technology continues to evolve, the need for supercharging may become more apparent, but for now, the infrastructure and economic factors make it an overkill for the majority of EV owners.