EVgo, a network of public electric vehicle (EV) fast charging stations, in partnership with ABB announced it will deploy the nation’s first High-Power fast charging station in Fremont, Calif., capable of delivering incredibly fast charging speeds.
The High-Power fast charging system, manufactured by ABB, features a maximum charging rate of 150kW – providing a charge which is three times faster than what is available today.
The charger will assist with next generation electric vehicle charging research, and will allow testing of EV research platforms at 150kW initially, the company said.
The installed system has the potential to reach charging speeds of up to 350kW with an upgrade. As automakers align on future hardware and service standards, the station will enable industry coordination and testing.
EVgo is using the station to study utility impacts, installation standards, permitting, and building and safety requirements. It will also provide a demonstration platform for electrical certification committees and building code officials.
Both EVgo and ABB consider the implementation of High-Power fast charging as a critical next step in the evolution of EVs, as automakers are introducing new electric vehicles with increased battery capacities and longer ranges.
Already, two automakers have announced plans to sell vehicles in the U.S. that will charge at significantly higher rates in less than two years. Additionally, five automakers have announced a collaboration to build 400 High-Power charging stations (350kW) throughout Europe.
The fastest available public chargers currently in the market are 50kW, which can provide roughly three miles per minute of charge. A 150kW charger can provide nine miles per minute, and a 350kW charger will provide more than 20 miles per minute.
The new charging station will be available to automotive research vehicles on request, and is intended to help inform future advances in electric vehicle development, range, capacity and charging speed. The charger will not be open to the public, though it resides at the nation’s busiest public fast charging site in Fremont, California.
“EVgo has taken another first step in next generation High-Power fast charging that will advance the entire electric vehicle industry,” said Terry O’Day, vice president, Product Strategy and Market Development at EVgo. “Our goal is to enable improved fast charging service in the future, helping our automotive OEM partners provide even more convenient and appealing options to their customers.”
EVgo has partnered with Lucky Supermarkets to install the charger at its Mowry Avenue location in Fremont, where the High-Power fast charging station is now in service.