One of the most interesting stories in EV charging tech of late comes from a partnership between two US-based experts
One of the most interesting stories in EV charging tech of late comes from a partnership between two US-based experts who joined forces to launch ultrafast Direct Current (DC) vehicle-to-grid (V2G) chargers along with the associated power infrastructure
EV charging solutions provider ChargePoint worked with intelligent power management company Eaton to create the ultrafast charging architecture with end-to-end power infrastructure for public charging and fleets. ChargePoint Express Grid, powered by Eaton, is a vehicle-to-everything (V2X) capable solution that delivers up to 600kW of power for passenger EVs and can provide megawatt charging for heavy-duty commercial applications.
ChargePoint is clear that Express isn’t just proving a concept; it’s a full product line, with a range of chargers for a variety of applications in the pipeline. And Eduardo Guraieb, a senior manager at ChargePoint, explains that the company has big plans for this new tech: “Express will solve some of the most prevalent grid limitations, often circumventing the need to secure additional grid service by allowing site owners to integrate on-site energy storage (BESS) and solar energy production,” he explains.
Discussing the technology itself, Guraieb says the key innovation involved from the charger-side infrastructure is the ability of Express to receive direct DC input. “BESS supply DC output, and traditional charging infrastructure relies on AC/DC power conversion via standalone inverters. This generates two different conversion losses, at the standalone inverter and at the station’s rectifier, which are omitted by our capability to receive direct DC input,” the expert explains.
THE HOT TOPIC
Delivering up to 600kW raises challenges around heat, efficiency and connector durability. So, what specific advances in its charging hardware enable ChargePoint to safely and reliably operate at these power levels?
“Redesigned, proprietary ventilation systems not only keep the units in operating temperature but also do so quietly in any environment,” begins Guraieb. “Our liquid-cooled cable technology delivers superior performance because it leverages the high thermal efficiency of water glycol coolant to maintain stable temperatures. Water glycol solutions offer high specific heat capacity, enabling them to absorb and remove heat more effectively than air or less conductive coolants, which supports higher continuous current flow and prevents thermal throttling during fast charging sessions,” he adds.
Guraieb explains that this enhanced cooling allows the Express system to reliably deliver more than 1MW of sustained power, reducing charging times while protecting connectors, cables and internal power modules from heat-related degradation. “The result is a fast-charging experience that is consistent, durable and reliable across a wide range of operating conditions. The rated operating temperature of the system is from -40 to 55°C,” he details.
MODULAR APPROACH
The Express Grid solution integrates charging, storage and renewables. Guraieb describes the underlying charging architecture as “incredibly modular and adaptable” and says that it was built as a set of componentry that can be configured to a specific use case with ease. He comments: “We don’t build for a use case, we build the ‘Lego blocks’, help our customers by understanding their use case and then spec the solution they need based on those components.”
As well as prioritising customer relationships, it’s evident that ChargePoint is also highly focused on cross-industry partnerships. “Our Express solution is made even more compelling to customers thanks to its integration with Eaton’s power infrastructure and expertise. We see cross-industry partnerships as a key driver of progress towards the next chapter of broad-scale EV adoption,” explains Guraieb.
“When independent companies’ perfect technology and tailor it to match customer needs, cross-industry partnerships can drive mass adoption by lowering capital and operating expenses through efficiency gains. One example of this is how, by co-selling solutions integrated by Eaton hardware and ChargePoint equipment, we’re able to reduce the time-to-value for our customers via simplified ordering processes and streamlined deliveries that ensure every component is built to spec and delivered at the right time in a project’s construction,” he continues.
When asked what’s next for ChargePoint, Guraieb can’t discuss any specific products or developments on the horizon, but he does offer a hint as to the company’s next focus area. “We have some interesting AC-charging announcements coming later this year,” he reveals.
STRENGTH IN NUMBERS
The Eaton partnership is just one example of how ChargePoint is teaming up with other automotive manufacturers to drive progress in emobility. In 2024 it collaborated with General Motors (GM) to further accelerate EV infrastructure growth in the USA. Together, the companies installed hundreds of ultra-fast charging ports at strategic locations, featuring the latest innovations in EV charging to improve access to chargers and help drivers get back on the road quickly. Speaking at the time, Rick Wilmer, ChargePoint’s CEO, said: “The transition to electric mobility continues to be driven by leaders such as General Motors offering innovative EVs and committing to make chargers as ubiquitous as possible. Our collaboration with GM represents a significant investment in the infrastructure to enable fast and easy charging for all. Together, ChargePoint and GM will deliver a seamless fast charging experience via reliable charging hardware managed by our leading software platform.”
