EV charging performance: Why do vehicles charge differently?

EV charging power: why do some cars charge faster at JOLT stations than others?

At JOLT Energy, we know that charging time is a decisive factor in everyday life for electric vehicle drivers. That is why we provide ultra-fast charging infrastructure for EV drivers.

Our charging infrastructure can provide vehicles with enough electricity for up to 200 km of range in just 10 minutes, with a maximum output of 360 kW. Nevertheless, users often find that the charging power their EV actually receives varies in practice. Why is that?

Let's put the facts on the table!

The EV determines the maximum charging speed

In principle, JOLT always provides the most powerful technology available. Our MerlinOne charger, for example, is a high-power charger rated at 300 kW. Compared with standard AC chargers, the MerlinOne charges ten times faster.

Whether an electric vehicle can actually draw all of this immense power depends primarily on its battery management system (BMS). Each vehicle model has a maximum charging speed set by the manufacturer in its hardware and software to protect the battery's internal cell structures from overheating or premature wear. If a vehicle is technically limited to a maximum power intake of 100 kW, it will not charge any faster even at a 300 kW station.

Understanding the charging curve: why speed varies during a session

Even when a modern electric car supports exceptionally high charging power, its charging speed is not constant throughout a session. To understand these physical fluctuations, you need to understand the charging curve.

In short, when the battery is almost empty, it initially takes in power very quickly. But as it fills up, the BMS increasingly reduces the power supply.

For your everyday life, this means it is particularly efficient to quickly charge your electric car to 60–80% at our stations and then carry on with your day. You can top up the rest to 100% at home in the evening at your leisure. External factors such as extreme heat or cold also affect the charging curve, as batteries work best within certain comfortable temperature ranges.

You can find these and more tips in our charging guide!

HPC charging: ready for a quick top-up?

Want to learn more about our systems? JOLT provides the ideal infrastructure for state-of-the-art HPC (High Power Charging). Our systems, such as the ChargeBox from ADS-TEC Energy, enable ultra-fast charging at up to 320 kW. For you as a driver, that means one thing above all: saving valuable time.

As an EV driver, you want to find charging stations in convenient nearby locations so you can charge efficiently even with a busy schedule. That way, charging fits seamlessly into your daily routine!

Your benefits: relaxed charging without range anxiety

With the aim of transforming urban mobility through an innovative fast-charging network, we focus entirely on your needs as a consumer. With access to our reliable, fast charging infrastructure, range anxiety becomes a thing of the past. You can continue your journey with minimal interruption.

This gives you, as an electric car driver, tangible benefits at every JOLT station:

• Reliable, ultra-fast charging: So you can get back on the road quickly.
• Exactly where you need it: Strategically located in the heart of the city.
• Super easy to use: Plug in, charge and drive on.
• Available around the clock (24/7): complete flexibility for your schedule.
• Simple payment options: Transparent and without hidden obstacles.

Discover for yourself how easy charging in the city can be. Head to a JOLT station near you and benefit from the maximum EV charging power your vehicle can handle!