Fast charging simplified—what it is and how it works

Fast charging, as the name suggests, is a technology that allows electric vehicles (EVs) to be charged at a faster rate than traditional charging methods. It is a game-changing technology that has revolutionized or can revolutionize the way we think about EVs with how it has made them more practical and convenient for everyday use.

Fast charging works by increasing the amount of power that can be transferred to an EV's battery in a shorter period of time. It achieves this by using a high-power charging station, also known as a DC fast charger, that can deliver a much higher current than a regular charging station. "DC" stands for direct current and a high-power charging station can connect to the EV through a specialized charging cable that is designed to handle the type of current and the increased wattage. 

For added explanation and to compare against fast chargers, slow chargers which are also known as level one or level two chargers are charging methods for electric vehicles that are slower than fast charging but still effective for daily use. Unlike fast chargers, which can deliver a high amount of power in a short period of time, slow chargers are designed to deliver power at a lower rate over a longer period.

Level one chargers are the slowest charging method for electric vehicles and typically deliver around three to five miles of range per hour of charging. They are often used for home charging and are plugged into a standard household outlet, making them convenient for those who have access to an outlet near their parking spot. However, because of their slow charging speed, Level 1 chargers may not be ideal for drivers who need to charge their vehicles quickly.

Level two chargers, on the other hand, are faster than Level one chargers and can deliver up to 25 miles of range per hour of charging. They require a dedicated charging station that is usually installed in a home or public parking area and can be used to charge an EV overnight or during extended periods of time. Level 2 chargers are also often used in workplace charging stations and public charging networks, as they offer a reasonable balance between charging speed and affordability.

The fast charging process is controlled by the EV's onboard charging system, which communicates with the charging station to regulate the flow of power to the battery. This ensures that the battery is charged safely and efficiently, without overcharging or damaging the cells.

The capability of fast charging depends on a few factors, such as the charging station's power output, the capacity of the EV's battery, and the charging speed supported by the EV. Typically, fast charging can deliver up to 80% charge to an EV's battery in as little as 30 minutes, depending on the charging speed supported by the vehicle.

Fast charging is generally considered safe, as long as it is done using a certified charging station and the appropriate charging cable. EV manufacturers and charging station operators have safety measures to ensure that the charging process is safe for both the vehicle and the user.

However, it is important to note that fast charging can put extra stress on an EV's battery, which can lead to faster degradation over time. It is recommended that EV owners use fast charging only when necessary and avoid frequent use to prolong the battery's lifespan.

Fast charging is becoming increasingly common in newer EVs, and most electric car manufacturers now offer fast charging capabilities in their models. Some EV models that are available in the Philippines offer fast charging like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Porsche Taycan, Audi E-Tron lineup, BMW iX, Nissan Leaf and the Weltmeister W5.

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.