I feel like I am definitely missing something here and I will likely make incorrect statements. If there are chargers that CAN support up to 350kW, but not many cars that can support it, why do they exist?
For example, I have an ID.4, and a quick Google search for “ID.4 charge speed” says it has a “170-kW DC fast-charging speed.” I can’t seem to find a car that can take full advantage of the 350kW chargers.
Is there a reason for these high-power chargers being available even though most EVs can’t utilize the full capacity? Are there any upcoming vehicles that will support this, or is there some other benefit I’m not seeing?
High-power chargers, like those capable of delivering up to 350 kW, exist primarily to future-proof the charging infrastructure and reduce charging times as technology advances. While many current EVs, like your ID.4, don’t yet support these high speeds, manufacturers are continually developing new models with higher charging capabilities. Having these high-power chargers in place ensures that the infrastructure can accommodate these upcoming vehicles, allowing them to charge faster and more efficiently. Additionally, even if an EV can’t utilize the full 350 kW, it can still benefit from faster charging speeds available from these chargers, as they tend to deliver a higher average power throughout the charging session. This helps reduce congestion at charging stations by getting more cars charged and back on the road quickly, improving the overall experience for all EV owners.
High-power chargers like the 350kW ones are becoming more common as the industry anticipates future EVs that will support such fast charging speeds. While your ID.4 can handle up to 170kW, these ultra-fast chargers are designed to accommodate upcoming models with higher charging capacities, making them future-proof investments. Having high-power chargers available now helps build the infrastructure needed for newer vehicles and ensures that charging networks can keep up with evolving technology. As battery technology advances, more EVs will be able to utilize these faster chargers, making the current investment a step towards supporting future needs.