What does 400V Architecture mean?

Explanation

400V architecture refers to the electrical system voltage of the EV's drivetrain and battery. Most EVs on the road today use a 400V platform, which supports DC fast charging speeds typically ranging from 50 kW to about 200 kW, depending on the car's design and battery management.

The voltage platform determines the theoretical maximum charging speed because power equals voltage times current. At 400V, to deliver 200 kW, the charger needs to push about 500 amps, which is near the practical limit of today's cables and connectors without excessive heat.

A 400V car plugged into a 350 kW charger will not charge at 350 kW. The charger can deliver up to 350 kW, but the car's 400V architecture limits how much power it can accept. This is not a problem, just physics. The car charges at whatever speed its battery management system and voltage platform allow, regardless of the charger's maximum capability.

Learn more from CharIN e.V.

Where you'll see this

• In vehicle specifications

Common confusion

Drivers sometimes assume a charger labeled '350 kW' will charge any car at 350 kW. The car's voltage architecture and battery management determine actual speed. A 400V car will typically max out well below 350 kW.

Example

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