In an effort to reduce charging time for its future electric models, Volvo had developed a fast charging system, that is intended for common use in the next few years. Volvo claims that its new fast-charger can shorten recharging time to just 1.5 hours, operating six times faster than today’s on-board devices.
To ensure its liability, Volvo will test the fast-charger unit in a number of Volvo C30 Electric cars. The new 22 kW fast-charger is the world’s first charger that operates on a three-phase supply and is small enough to be fitted in an electric car.
According to Volvo, the new fast-charger will allow clients to opt for a short or a long charging period. The short one, using a three-phase outlet with 32A, takes only 30 minutes and its enough to ensure a range of 80 kilometers. The second one takes 1.5 hours and can guarantee a full charging cycle.
When charging from a normal house socket of 230V, the cycle is completed in 8 to 10 hours, as it is found on lots of today’s electric cars.
Lennart Stegland, Vice President for Electric Propulsion Systems at Volvo stated: "We know that short recharging times and extensive operating range are a necessity for potential electric car consumers. But with the fast-charger, the user can top up the battery pack with electricity one or more times during the day. This means that the total daily range is significantly extended, yet with the same low operating cost compared to a car with a conventional power train. Giving customers more usable hours each day means that electric cars become more viable as a commercial proposition, in both the private and public sectors."
