Short answer: A high-power DC fast charger delivering 150 kW or more, capable of adding 200+ km of range in 15-20 minutes.
Explanation
Ultra-rapid chargers represent the fastest publicly available charging speeds, typically 150 kW to 350 kW. At these speeds, a compatible car can add 200 km or more of range in 15-20 minutes, making long-distance EV travel competitive with refueling a petrol car in terms of overall trip time.
Networks like Ionity, Tesla Superchargers (V3 and V4), Fastned, and ARAL pulse deploy ultra-rapid chargers at motorway locations. The charger hardware is larger and more expensive than standard rapid chargers, which is reflected in the pricing. Ultra-rapid sessions tend to cost more per kWh than slower AC charging.
To benefit from ultra-rapid charging, your car needs to be able to accept high power. An 800V car like the Kia EV6 or Porsche Taycan can take full advantage of a 350 kW charger. A 400V car like the Volkswagen ID.4 maxes out at about 135 kW regardless of what the charger can deliver. The charger does not force more power than your car can handle.
Where you'll see this
- On the charger screen
- In charging network apps
Common confusion
Just because a charger is rated at 350 kW does not mean your car will charge at 350 kW. Your car's maximum charging speed, battery temperature, and state of charge determine the actual speed.
Example
A Hyundai Ioniq 5 at a 350 kW Ionity station charges from 10% to 80% in about 18 minutes, adding roughly 290 km of range.
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