Fast charging simplified—what it is and how it works

Fast charging is a way to quickly charge an electric vehicle (EV), reducing the hours it would take with a regular outlet. Traditional home chargers use alternating current (AC), which is slower. Fast charging, however, uses direct current (DC) to send electricity straight into the battery at a higher voltage, making the charging process quicker. This type of charging is usually done at public stations and, depending on the EV model and battery size, can bring an EV battery to 80% in about 30 minutes.

Here’s how it works: fast chargers use a DC power source and a thick, specially made cable to connect to the EV. The charger sends a strong current directly to the EV battery, bypassing the car’s onboard converter, which speeds up the charging process, which is different from Level 1 and Level 2 chargers, since they deliver power more slowly. Level 1 chargers, which plug into regular home outlets, can add only 3 to 5 miles of range per hour. Level 2 chargers, which require a special charging station, can add up to 25 miles of range per hour, making them suitable for overnight charging or workplaces. However, these levels can be limiting if you need a quick boost, and that’s where fast charging is much better.

The EV’s charging system monitors and controls the power flow during fast charging to keep the battery safe and prevent overcharging. The system balances how much electricity is going into the battery to avoid damage, and it will reduce power as the battery nears full capacity.

Fast charging can make a really big difference in EV convenience by drastically reducing charging times. However, its speed varies based on a few factors, mainly the power output of the charging station, the EV’s battery capacity, and how fast the car can handle the charge. Most fast-charging stations supply power between 50 kW and 350 kW. On a 150 kW charger, many EVs can go from 10% to 80% charge in around 30 minutes, although this depends on the vehicle. For instance, cars with larger battery packs, such as the Porsche Taycan, might take a bit longer, while smaller battery packs reach 80% quicker.

Some models are built specifically to handle high-speed charging. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6, for example, use an 800-volt system that can handle up to 350 kW. The system allows these vehicles to charge at higher speeds and reach that 80% threshold in as little as 18 minutes on the fastest stations. In comparison, most EVs operate on a 400-volt system and will typically charge more slowly even on powerful chargers. Temperature also affects charging speed—most EVs slow down the charge in extreme cold or heat to protect the battery, which could impact how quickly you get back on the road.

Fast charging is generally safe for both the user and the vehicle, thanks to strict safety measures built into charging stations and the vehicles themselves. Charging station operators and EV manufacturers develop their systems to monitor and control the current flow, making sure that the battery doesn’t overheat or overcharge. Certified charging stations are provided with temperature sensors and power control systems, and EVs have built-in safety checks to maintain stable conditions while charging, preventing potential hazards and protecting the battery.

However, frequent use of fast charging does raise concerns about battery health over time. High-speed charging generates more heat than slower Level 1 or Level 2 options, and this increased heat can put extra stress on the battery. Studies indicate that repeated exposure to high charging currents may contribute to gradual battery degradation, reducing its overall lifespan. For this reason, experts recommend reserving fast charging for situations where you need to charge quickly, such as during road trips or when you’re pressed for time. For everyday needs, Level 1 or Level 2 charging at home or work can help maintain battery health and prolong its lifespan.

In the Philippines, more electric vehicles (EVs) now come with fast charging, making them easier to use daily. Models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Porsche Taycan, BMW iX, Nissan Leaf, Audi e-tron lineup, and the recently launched Dongfeng Nammi all support this feature. Fast charging lets drivers power up quickly, usually reaching about 80% in 30 minutes, so they spend less time waiting to charge. For example, the Dongfeng Nammi can go up to 430 kilometers on a full charge and takes only about 30 minutes with a fast charger to fully recharge. These EVs show how owning an electric car in the Philippines is becoming more practical, with quick charging options now widely available.

Fast charging stations are becoming more common, with many countries investing in EV infrastructure to support the growing number of electric cars on the road. Here in the Philippines, EV charging stations from Unioil, Shell, and even major malls are starting to take point thanks to Electric Vehicle Development Act (EVIDA), and the National Economic Development Authority which help to reduce and eliminate tariffs on EVs as well as infrastructure and parts.

In conclusion, fast charging is a technology that has made EVs more practical and convenient for everyday use. With the increasing availability of fast charging stations and the growing number of EV models that support it here in the Philippines, fast charging and charging stations in general will soon be more commonplace in the country, with fast charging stations hopefully becoming a standard fare for Filipinos with EVs. 

Fast charging tech is making it easier than ever to own an EV. As more EV models support fast charging and new stations continue to open, fast charging could soon be as accessible as gas stations, giving drivers more options for eco-friendly transportation. If you’re curious about going electric, explore your options on Autodeal.com.ph. Find EVs available locally, check out their specs, and when you’re ready, click ‘Get Quote’ to receive quotes from local dealers quickly—all without leaving home.