Fast charging: how it works

Fast charging is DC charging at 50 kW or more, the charger converts grid power itself, taking your battery from 10 to 80% in 20–40 minutes. Ultra-fast chargers of 150–400 kW cluster along motorways and major hubs.

What determines your real charging speed?

• Your car: your EV's peak charging rate is the ceiling, a 100 kW car charges at 100 kW even on a 300 kW unit.
• The charging curve: above 80% the rate drops sharply, which is why you typically charge to 80% en route.
• Temperature: a cold battery charges slower; many EVs precondition the battery if you set the charger as your navigation destination.
• Sharing: with shared-power units, speed can drop when the neighbouring stall is occupied.

Rule of thumb: fast charging costs €0.55–0.85 per kWh, 30–60% more than a regular charger. Use it on trips; charge at home or kerbside for daily use.

The most powerful fast-charging locations in our database

On every city page, fast-charging locations are marked with ⚡ and an amber accent in the street list.