EV charging powerhouse ChargePoint has developed a new DC fast charging platform that can deliver charging speeds up to 500 kW. In the first large-scale deployment of the new Express Plus Power Link 2000 system, it will power Mercedes-Benz’s new HPC NA charging network, which the automaker is touting as a premium network commensurate with its luxury vehicles.
“With the deployment of Express Plus Power Link 2000, ChargePoint is setting a new standard by offering sustained, ultra-high-speed charging for all EV drivers,” said Rick Wilmer, COO of ChargePoint. “We congratulate Mercedes-Benz on the launch of their HPC NA network, and we look forward to boosting the availability of fast, reliable public DC charging on North American roads.”
Express Plus is a modular DC fast charging platform. The architecture is based upon Power Blocks, each of which can house up to five Power Modules to reach a desired charging specification. The Power Blocks deliver power that can be dynamically shared amongst Power Link charging stations, which feature liquid-cooled cables. Each station can simultaneously charge two vehicles at once, at sustained high speeds of up to 500 kW. The Power Blocks intelligently and dynamically allocate power based on what specific vehicles can accommodate as they charge.
The ChargePoint software behind the plugs includes a couple of new features, including preferential charger access via a reservation system, and automatic payment functionality via Plug & Charge. (Authentication via card, app or user interface is still possible, but not required for Plug & Charge-capable vehicles.)
Source: ChargePoint
