The electric vehicle (EV) charging landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, with three key trends emerging as driving forces in this rapidly evolving market, according to a new report by IDTechEx Research.
800V Batteries and Traction-Integrated Onboard Chargers (iOBCs): Traditionally, many EVs have employed 400V battery architecture, but the future is set to embrace 800V and higher voltage systems. This shift promises significantly faster charging times for EVs. One innovative approach involves using the high-powered electronics of the EV’s traction system to double as a high-power onboard DC charger while the vehicle is stationary. By incorporating the traction power electronics into the charging circuit, each vehicle can operate at the maximum C rate of the battery, enabling faster charging times. Some commercial vehicles have already demonstrated this concept successfully, and the passenger EV industry is witnessing a transition to 800V platforms and traction iOBCs. This transition is expected to continue, potentially leading to cost savings and optimized charging infrastructure.
Off-Grid Solar Charging Infrastructure: In certain environments where digging or grid-tied infrastructure is not feasible or timely, off-grid solar charging solutions are gaining traction. These solutions are particularly suitable for brownfield sites, nuclear waste sites, airports, and other locations with grid limitations. Off-grid solar charging infrastructure combines sun-tracking solar canopies with onsite battery storage, offering a portable and flexible solution that doesn’t require extensive groundwork.
National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program in the US: The US Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Biden Administration introduced standards for EV chargers funded through the NEVI program. These standards encompass predictable charging features, reliability requirements (97 percent uptime minimum), accessibility, and Plug & Charge capability. Additionally, chargers must adhere to Buy America standards, promoting local manufacturing of components over time. NEVI is driving the expansion of EV charging infrastructure in the US, with states gradually initiating their programs. The deployment of NEVI chargers is expected to accelerate in 2024. As a result, EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) manufacturers are establishing domestic manufacturing facilities to meet Buy America standards and streamline their entry into the growing US public charging market.
The report from IDTechEx Research emphasizes that DC fast charger installations (in the 24-350 kW range) are surpassing the growth of level 1 and 2 AC charger installations in the US. The rise in higher-power fast charging infrastructure is attributed to the addition of new Tesla Supercharger installations, Electrify America, EVgo, and Rivian Adventure Network installations. Although AC chargers still dominate public charger installations in the US, the share of DC chargers is expected to gradually increase to cater to the needs of interstate travelers.
In conclusion, these trends in the EV charging market are reshaping the future of electric mobility, ushering in faster and more efficient charging solutions and supporting regulatory initiatives to facilitate the deployment of fast chargers. These developments are vital for the broader adoption of electric vehicles on a global scale, promising enhanced performance and reduced charging times. The full IDTechEx report, titled “Charging Infrastructure for Electric Vehicles and Fleets 2024-2034,” includes 10-year granular forecasts by technology (AC/DC split), power class, and key regions.