A California-based startup has unveiled a new electric vehicle (EV) charger designed to significantly accelerate the expansion of charging infrastructure by circumventing the need for expensive and time-consuming grid upgrades.
Innovative Solution Addresses Bottlenecks in EV Charging Deployment
ElectricFish has introduced its 400squared DC fast charger, a product that aims to overcome a major hurdle in deploying more EV charging stations across the United States. While the nation’s EV charging network is growing, with over 14,000 DC fast charging stations and more than 67,000 ports, the process of installing new stations can be lengthy, often taking months or even years due to the requirement for substantial grid enhancements.
Battery Integration Eliminates Need for Extensive Infrastructure
The key innovation behind the 400squared lies in its integrated battery system. Unlike conventional charging stations that often require separate, costly power distribution cabinets, ElectricFish’s unit houses 400-kilowatt-hours of energy storage within the charger itself. This design allows the charger to deliver up to 400 kilowatts of power, with potential for 200 kW per port if two EVs are connected simultaneously.
By intelligently managing the charging and discharging of its internal batteries, the 400squared significantly reduces the minimum grid connection requirements. The batteries can be replenished during off-peak times, ensuring that power is readily available when EVs need a charge, without overwhelming local power grids.
Flexible Power Requirements for Diverse Installations
The ElectricFish 400squared can operate with a range of power inputs. It is compatible with split-phase 120- or 240-volt connections requiring a minimum of 55 amps. A three-phase 208-volt option necessitates 83 amps, and the top-tier configuration can accept three-phase 480V with a 115A draw.
Rapid Installation and High Uptime
ElectricFish claims an impressive 99% uptime for its solution. Crucially, the plug-and-play nature of the 400squared allows for installations to be completed in as little as a few hours. The company cited the example of its recent deployment at Hyundai’s California Proving Ground, where the charger was operational in just two hours.
Target Markets and Potential Applications
The company suggests its integrated DC fast charger is particularly well-suited for conventional gas stations, commercial centers, and fleet operators. However, the 400squared also presents a valuable option for emergency situations, enabling authorities to quickly establish EV power sources where traditional charging infrastructure is unavailable.
This battery-integrated approach is not unique to ElectricFish, with other companies like XCharge and Electric Era also developing similar solutions. These innovations signal a growing trend towards more flexible and rapidly deployable EV charging technologies to meet increasing demand.