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How to Charge at a DC Fast Charging Station
With the popularity of electric vehicles, the demand for fast charging will only increase in the coming years. Although this may be a new and unfamiliar experience, we hope the following guide can help you know how to charge at a DC fast charging station.
1. Locate a Fast Charging Station
The first step is to find a fast charging station. Unlike fuel stations, EV chargers are often less visible and might be tucked away in parking lots or behind buildings. The easiest way to find one is by using an app designed for EV charging.Various charging apps can help depending on your region and EV model, providing details such as the charger’s speed, availability, and location to assist with planning. Alternatively, mainstream apps like Google Maps or Apple Maps also show EV charging locations.
Keep in mind that no matter how powerful a charging station may be, the maximum charge rate is limited by your vehicle’s capacity. For instance, while many chargers can deliver 400 kW, most EVs can only take 125-150 kW.
2. Get the Charging Cable
After reaching the charging station, locate the built-in cable. Unlike home or public AC chargers, fast chargers come with heavy-duty, non-removable cables designed for higher power loads. High power rapid charging cables are thicker due to the need for active cooling.
Ensure that the plug on the cable fits your EV’s charging port. Though standardized across regions, it’s good practice to double-check your connector compatibility.
3. Connect Your Vehicle
Once you’ve confirmed the plug and socket match, connect your car to the charger. Some fast charging ports may have a protective flap you’ll need to lift to expose the larger connector, different from the AC port. The location of the charging port can vary between vehicles, so make sure your car is parked correctly to reach the cable.
4. Authenticate and Start Charging
After connecting your EV, you’ll need to start the charging session. This often involves authenticating yourself via an app or fob, enabling the station to process payment and initiate charging. Some fast chargers also have built-in card readers for direct payments without needing an app.
Keep in mind, fast charging typically costs more than home or AC public charging due to its convenience and speed. Fast charging stations often charge a premium to cover the cost of their equipment and infrastructure.
5. End the Charging Session
Once your battery reaches the desired level, you’ll need to end the charging session. How you do this will depend on how you started the session. If you used an app, you can stop charging through the app. If you used a fob, you might need to tap it again to stop the session.
Most stations have interactive displays that allow you to stop charging directly at the unit. Remember, the charging cable will be locked to your car until you end the session. Afterward, replace the cable in its holder, and you're all set to continue your journey.
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