Time:
Although most DC fast charging stations come with two ports, only one port can be used to charge at a time. This is because the charger allocates all available power to the charging handle that is currently in use. However, advanced chargers such as Grasen DC fast charging stations offer true simultaneous charging, meaning both ports can be used at the same time.
Simultaneous EV charging is a new technology that allows multiple vehicles to charge at the same time while optimizing the energy transfer between them. It enables the charging of multiple EVs using a single charging station, thus reducing installation costs and crowded charging facilities.
A simultaneous charger allows two EVs to share a charger’s power between two connectors on the same charging dispenser. If only one connector is in use on the simultaneous charger, the electric vehicle connected to it can access the entire power of the charger. When both connectors are in use, the two EVs share the full power of the charger.
To understand how simultaneous charging works further, we will need to know a key component of EV chargers - the power modules.
The power module or EV charger module can convert AC energy into DC in order to charge vehicles.
EV chargers equipped with a single module are incapable of supporting simultaneous charging. These chargers contain a singular power module that disseminates power output to a sole charging port. Although some may contain two ports, the single module restricts the distribution of power to one charging connector. Moreover, such models possess two charging ports with the intention of accommodating multiple EV brands but not allowing them to charge simultaneously.
Simultaneous charging EV charger contains several modules. For instance, a 120kW DC fast charger includes four 30kW power modules. Each module is designated for a specific charging port. If only one electric vehicle is plugged in, it will receive the full 120kW charge. If a second car connects, the power is divided equally between the two ports, providing each EV with up to a 60kW charge.
In other cases: One 150kW EV charging station can offer 150kW to a single vehicle, or two vehicles (60kW for one port and 90kW for the other).
Simultaneous charging is becoming a necessary feature for DC fast charging stations. As EVs gain popularity, the number of charging stations is increasing; however, demand is also growing, leading to long queues at charging stations. Simultaneous EV charging can help reduce the waiting time, increasing the convenience of owning an EV.
Besides, it’s space and cost-efficient – one charger takes us less space than two, and it’s economical because you’re really getting two chargers for the price of one.
Submit Request
