Homepage / Chargers & Software / EV Charging Speeds: Fast, Rapid, & Ultra-Rapid Charging

What Are the Different Types of EV Chargers? 

In short, the different types of EV chargers are; slow, fast, and rapid & ultra-rapid chargers. Your business charging requirements will inform the best charge point infrastructure to ensure EV drivers have a quality experience. 

Learn more about EV charging speeds 

Charger TypeCharging SpeedCharging Time (80%)
Slow chargers3kW – 7kW6-12hrs
Fast chargers7kW – 25kW  3-6hrs
Rapid chargers50kW – 150kW  30mins-1hr
Ultra-rapid DC chargers150kW+10-20mins
Approximate to average EV battery capacity
Mer Workplace EV Chargers in Car Park

What is EV Fast Charging?

Stats from Zap-Map show most of the UK’s infrastructure is made of fast chargers. You will typically find fast chargers in the workplace and car parks throughout the UK, as they provide a more cost-effective way to charge if you have a bit more time. 

If you have a home EV charger installed, you will likely only be able to achieve a maximum of 7.4kW. 

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Alpitronic EV Charger

What is Rapid and Ultra-Rapid EV Charging? 

Next-level EV charging, rapid and ultra-rapid chargers are perfect for a quick turnaround and are usually found on major routes, at charging hubs, and on-the-go locations. 

With speeds of between 50-150kw (rapid) and 150-400kW (ultra-rapid), these chargers allow you to fully charge (80%) in 10 minutes – 1 hour. The share of EV rapid and ultra-rapid charge points in the UK is accelerating. This trend will vastly impact electric vehicle drivers, slashing recharging times and massively reducing range anxiety among electric vehicle motorists. 

Renewable Energy Integration EV Charging

Rapid vs Ultra-Rapid EV Chargers

Ultra-rapid EV charging points tend to be more costly to operate and install, as dedicated high-powered connections to the grid are often needed. 

The most common in this range is the EV rapid charging units, generally found in city car parks and retail parks, as the first generation of EVs typically had a 50kW maximum charging speed. 

However, with the new range of electric vehicles charging speeds have typically increased to around 100–150 kW, with some vehicles being capable of accepting charges up to 300kW. Hyper or ultra-rapid chargers are there to fulfil this need for the latest vehicles, as the fastest EV charger.

Girl Charging at Mer Public Charger Stations for EV

Why Install Rapid and Ultra-Rapid EV Chargers? 

Help EV drivers fill up quickly and efficiently. These super-fast chargers help lower charging times, and significantly reduces range anxiety, both of which are cited as main factors in hindering widespread EV adoption.  

Attract customers to your site. Drivers will often choose rapid charging stations over a fast charger, and will be more enticed to head to your premises for a convenient top-up while they shop. 

Future-proof EV charging infrastructure. As battery capacity improves, electric vehicles will become more efficient, able to take higher charging speeds and require a quicker charge. 

Electric car charging at EV charging hub

Installing Rapid and Ultra-Rapid EV Charging Hubs 

Local authorities and commercial landowners should consider where and how they can support the deployment of ultra-rapid charging hubs in their areas. It is important to position these charging hubs in the most optimal locations. 

Mer UK supports with surveys, and mapping out the best locations for EV charging infrastructure.

Learn about EV charging hubs