Global automaker rating 2023: Tesla leads in BEV charging speed

Charging speed remains a crucial factor for consumers considering BEV purchases, particularly for long-distance travel. The ICCT report highlights that while some direct current (DC) fast chargers can deliver up to 350 kW, the average rate accepted by vehicles varies widely. The Hyundai IONIQ 5, for instance, supports 350 kW DC charging but averages 169.4 kW, enabling its 72.6 kWh battery to charge from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes. In stark contrast, the Citroën Ami, equipped with a modest 3.6 kW onboard charger, requires four hours to fully charge its 5.5 kWh battery.

The methodology behind the ICCT’s rating involves calculating the sales-weighted average charging speed for BEV models from each manufacturer, focusing on both normal (Level 2) and fast (DC) charging capabilities. The analysis considers net battery capacity and charging times, with normal charging speeds derived from the time taken to charge from 0% to 100% and fast charging speeds calculated based on charging from 10% to 80%, reflecting real-world usage patterns.

The results indicate a stark variation in charging speeds across manufacturers. Hyundai-Kia follows Tesla with an average fast charging speed of 139 kW, driven by popular models like the Hyundai IONIQ 5 and Kia EV6. Conversely, manufacturers like SAIC, Chang’an, Tata Motors, and Chery lag significantly behind. For example, Tata Motors’ Xpres-T BEV, with an average speed of 21 kW, and Chery’s QQ Ice Cream, which takes 75 minutes to charge its 17-kWh battery to 80%, underscore the disparity.

The report also highlights trends in the industry. In 2023, the introduction of fast charging capability in SAIC’s Wuling Hongguang Mini notably improved its average charging speed. Nissan saw a rise in its rating due to increased sales of the fast-charging Nissan Ariya, while BYD experienced a decline with the slow-charging BYD Seagull capturing a significant market share.

Despite these advancements, the overall market share of battery swap-capable BEVs remains low, primarily designed for taxi services in China. These models were excluded from the primary analysis to maintain a focus on conventional charging technologies.

As BEV adoption continues to grow, the ICCT’s findings underline the importance of improving charging infrastructure and technology. With Tesla setting the benchmark, other manufacturers are encouraged to enhance their charging capabilities to remain competitive in the evolving automotive landscape.

Key Highlights:

• Tesla: Leads with an average fast charging speed of 172 kW.
• Hyundai-Kia: Second place with an average speed of 139 kW.
• SAIC and Nissan: Notable improvements in average charging speeds.
• BYD: Decline due to the introduction of slower-charging models.
• Battery Swap BEVs: Represent less than 1% of the market, primarily used in China.

The ICCT’s Global Automaker Rating 2023 serves as a crucial benchmark for manufacturers and consumers alike, providing valuable insights into the performance and progress of BEV charging technologies.

Source: The ICCT