When you plug your electric vehicle (EV) into a fast charger, you expect maximum power. However, in practice, you’ll often notice the charging speed drops after a certain point. Experts describe this phenomenon as the EV charging curve.
As a forward-thinking charge point operator (CPO) for premium charging infrastructure, we know the tricks of the trade. We’re here to explain the physical reasons why charging power varies and how you can minimise your wait times.
The charging curve visualises the relationship between the battery’s current state of charge (SoC) and the charging power achieved (in kilowatts, kW). A battery cannot absorb power at the same maximum speed throughout the entire charging cycle. Consequently, it gradually tapers off.
Many EV drivers observe this phenomenon live on the charging station’s display: after a rapid initial phase, they suddenly notice the charging power dropping. This moment is no cause for concern; rather, it marks an important and completely normal transition in your EV’s charging cycle.
Up to a charge level of around 80%, the vehicle charges in constant current mode. During this phase, the maximum amount of energy flows quickly and freely into the battery cells. However, once the cells reach a specific voltage and fill level, the system switches to constant voltage mode. From this precise point, it is physically necessary for the charging power to decrease.
The battery management system (BMS) now actively throttles the current flow. This happens for a simple reason: to protect the sensitive lithium-ion cells from overheating, overcharging, and premature wear. Even though the charging power inevitably drops at the end of the charging cycle, ultra-fast charging technologies ensure you make the most of the initial phase of maximum power intake.
Alongside the current state of charge, other variables determine how quickly power actually flows into your vehicle:
To unlock the full potential of your EV charging curve, you need charging infrastructure that reliably and consistently provides high capacities. This is where JOLT Energy comes in. We aim to transform urban mobility with our innovative fast-charging network.
We offer cutting-edge high power charging (HPC) solutions like the MerlinOne, which delivers an impressive power output of 300 kW (2x 150 kW). Additionally, we use the compact ChargeBox, which can be charged with up to 320 kilowatts of power. Our charging infrastructure can power vehicles up to 200 km in just 10 minutes.
A revolutionary advantage: our charging stations feature integrated battery storage, enabling a seamless connection to the standard low-voltage grid without costly and time-consuming extensions. Acting as an intelligent energy storage system, our network can balance the supply and demand of electricity from renewable sources in real-time. Not only does this stabilize the grid, it also creates additional revenue streams.
By using the EV charging curve strategically, you’ll save valuable time in your everyday life:
For decision-makers in retail, at service stations, or at commercial properties, installing ultra-fast charging infrastructure offers enormous economic opportunities. When you collaborate with JOLT as a site partner , you enhance your property value and attract customer groups with disposable income who spend time on your premises.
We plan, finance, and operate premium chargers on your site. Since our systems, like the ChargeBox, are highly space-efficient and require no grid extension , zero investment is required from you. You provide the space, and we take care of the rest—allowing you to profit from additional income while focusing on your core business.
The flattening EV charging curve isn’t a technical flaw; it’s an essential and highly intelligent protection mechanism for your battery. With the right charging strategy and access to premium ultra-fast charging solutions from JOLT, you can seamlessly integrate the charging process into your journeys. Charging in urban areas made easy. It’s not only about ultra-fast charging. It’s about an all-electric future.
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