DC Fast Charging

DC fast charging, also called Level 3, sends direct current from a station straight to an EV battery, bypassing the car's onboard charger. Stations run at up to 500 kW.

The Department of Energy says it adds about 100 to 200+ miles of range per 30 minutes, and that a DC fast charge can take less than 20 minutes. Power drops as the battery fills, so times are usually quoted from 10% or 20% to 80%. The guide to the EV charging curve explains the slowdown.

US stations use CCS, CHAdeMO or J3400 (NACS) connectors. The FAQ on how long DC fast charging takes has more, and the guide to EV charging levels compares all three levels.