How do fast charging stations work?

Introduction to Fast and Ultra-Fast Charging Stations for Electric Vehicles

In recent years, electric cars have gained popularity due to increasing environmental awareness: electric driving contributes to more sustainable mobility by reducing emissions, especially when charging with energy produced from renewable sources. Besides the widespread expansion of the charging network, one of the key elements for enhancing electric mobility is the reduction of charging times. Compared to the few minutes needed to refuel a diesel or gasoline car, an electric car requires more time to be recharged.

Chargers of this type use advanced technologies to deliver a high amount of energy in a short period, often in less than an hour, compared to the several hours required by standard low-power charging stations, such as those used in domestic or business settings.

Electric fast chargers are specifically designed to reduce charging times, allowing for a drastic decrease in the time needed to recharge. When multiple chargers are installed at the same site, they create true fast charging stations.

How do they work?

• Power Converters: They use AC/DC converters to transform the alternating current (AC) from the electrical grid into direct current (DC) needed to directly charge the batteries of electric vehicles, bypassing the limited onboard charger.
• Power Output: They can offer variable power outputs, generally between 50 kW (fast charging) and 350 kW (ultra-fast charging), allowing a battery to be charged up to 100% in about 20-40 minutes (depending on the car model and the initial state of charge of the battery).
• Cooling System: They are equipped with air or liquid cooling systems that ensure better performance of the charging station even in extreme heat conditions.
• Charging Standards: They use protocols like CCS (Combined Charging System) and CHAdeMO to communicate with vehicles through a standardized language, ensuring greater interoperability and making it easier for users to find a fast charging station nearby.
• Load Management: They can limit the power drawn based on the demand of the grid, integrating with smart grids for efficient energy use.

Advantages of Fast and Ultra-Fast Charging Stations

Fast and Ultra-Fast Charging Stations for Electric Cars offer numerous advantages:

• Reduced Charging Time: They allow a battery to be fully charged in about 20-40 minutes, depending on the car model, battery capacity, and the power output of the charging station.
• Convenience and Practicality: Ideal for long-distance travelers, as they significantly reduce the time needed for charging. For example, Atlante’s fast and ultra-fast charging stations are typically located near major roads, highways, airports, commercial establishments, and other points of interest that offer useful services for those stopping to charge, making the stop even more comfortable.
• Optimal Charging Experience: By speeding up the process, they allow more vehicles to use the same charging point throughout the day, reducing wait times and ensuring an optimal charging experience.
• Accessibility: Generally located on public land and accessible to all models of electric cars through the mobility applications of e-Mobility Service Providers.

The Future of Fast Charging Stations

A few years ago, the availability of fast and ultra-fast charging stations was limited. Today, more and more stations are hosting fast charging points, reducing charging times for electric car drivers and allowing for worry-free long-distance travel. The future of fast charging is continuously evolving towards a simpler and more efficient charging experience. Here are some trends:

• Increased Power Output: Development of stations capable of delivering power outputs exceeding 350 kW, further reducing charging times.
• Integration with Smart Grids and Storage Systems: Increasingly connected stations to optimize energy consumption and integrate renewable sources. For instance, Atlante has already started using energy storage systems at some of its charging stations to store and make the best use of energy, offering a more efficient service.
• Network Expansion: Increasing the number of charging stations to cover rural and less densely populated areas. The use of new technologies such as storage systems and photovoltaic plants also helps bring fast and ultra-fast charging to areas where the electrical grid might not provide the necessary power.

With continuous technological evolution and infrastructure expansion, ultra-fast charging stations will play a crucial role in supporting the transition to more sustainable mobility.