The maximum power of domestically produced charging piles in China has reached 600kW.

Currently, the maximum power of a single charging gun in a dc fast charging station can technically reach 1500 kilowatts (1.5 megawatts) or even higher, representing the current industry-leading level. For a clearer understanding of the power rating classifications, please refer to the following diagram:

1. Liquid-cooled supercharger (Huawei/high-speed scenario): 600kW (e.g., Shenzhen Lianhuashan charging station, supporting “one kilometer per second” charging);

2. Li Auto 5C supercharger: 520kW (supports 800V high-voltage platform, 5 minutes of charging provides over 200 kilometers of range);

3. Tesla V4 supercharger: 500kW (deployed in North America, peak performance for passenger vehicles).

The key behind the power of charging piles

1. Charging Station Itself (Energy Provider)

• Current and Voltage: Power (kW) = Voltage (V) x Current (A). Increasing power simply means increasing voltage or current, or both simultaneously.
• Liquid Cooling Technology: This is key to achieving megawatt-level charging. When the current exceeds 600A, traditional cables become very heavy and generate significant heat. Liquid-cooled charging cables have circulating coolant inside, which carries away heat, making the cables lighter and thinner, yet able to withstand currents exceeding 1000A.

2. Electric Vehicles (Energy Receivers)

• The amount of power a vehicle can accept is ultimately determined by its battery management system and battery pack technology.
• 800V High-Voltage Platform: This is the mainstream technology direction for current high-end electric vehicles. It increases the system voltage from the common 400V to around 800V, allowing the charging power to double under the same current, which is the foundation for achieving ultra-fast charging.

3. Power Grid and Site (Energy Guarantee Provider)

A megawatt-level ev charging station is equivalent to the electricity load of a large shopping mall. It places extremely high demands on grid capacity, site transformers, and cable laying, resulting in enormous construction and operating costs. Currently, it can only be deployed gradually in specific scenarios.

Future prospects and current choices regarding charging piles

The industry is exploring charging technologies with power outputs of 2000kW (2 MW) and even higher, primarily targeting commercial applications such as electric heavy-duty trucks and aviation.

For ordinary private car owners, the maximum charging power of your vehicle is typically between 180kW and 600kW. Choosing a 120kW or 180kW public fast charging station can achieve efficient charging in 20-30 minutes.

If your vehicle supports an 800V high-voltage platform, you can prioritize finding supercharging stations with 300kW or higher to maximize its potential.