Porsche Launches Ultra-Fast EV Chargers in Berlin

Porsche AG has installed its first batch of 350-kW charging stations at a dealership in Berlin as part of previously announced effort to roll out the ultra-fast systems across Europe and the U.S.

The 800-volt chargers can replenish plug-in hybrid and electric vehicle batteries to 80% capacity in less than 20 minutes, providing an estimated 250-mile range. The stations use liquid cooling to help prevent the charging pins from overheating.

The Berlin station, which also has two 220-volt chargers, initially will be available at no cost for any vehicle, including other brands. But only those outfitted to handle such high-power levels will be able to use the 350-kW unit. Porsche’s upcoming Taycan electric sedan is expected to be one of the first vehicles with such capabilities when it launches next year.

Porsche already has installed 350-kW public chargers in other retail locations in Germany and at its U.S. headquarters in Atlanta. The carmaker expects to have as many as 500 of the super-fast chargers in place across North America by the end of 2019.