- Patent enables high charging rates from low voltage DC chargers
- The solution is to add a series of relay switches and a capacitor
- It is a smart work of the Tesla V3 Supercharger, which can charge at 800 volts.
Stellantis is working on hardware to improve the output of low-power DC fast chargers for electric vehicles that can handle that extra power, while keeping additional weight and complexity to a minimum.
Between the lines, although the patent says nothing about Tesla, it can make a big difference in real-world charging. The concept could allow 800-volt EVs—big EVs like the upcoming Ram 1500 REV—to charge at a higher rate when plugged into less than 800-volt quick-charge connectors, like most those in the Tesla Supercharger network.
Stelantis confirmed the plans accepting a Tesla-based charging portotherwise called NACS and is now part of a standard called SAE J3400, in February.
Rivian NACS adapter
This proposed boost system is described by the auto maker in a patent filing published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) Oct. 31, 2024, but was originally filed April 25, 2023. In it, Stellantis says the system is designed to take full advantage of the charging power of an 800-volt vehicle's electrical system even when charging at 400 volts. DC fast charging stations.
Patent image of the Stellantis DC fast charging system
While dedicated DC enhancement modules exist, these add significant cost and weight, and can be difficult to package, Stellantis said in the paper. As an alternative, the automaker proposes to use a series of relay switches to increase the voltage. These changes, along with a small DC capacitor, will be the only additional components needed, according to Stellantis, who added that such hardware. can be used in plug-in hybrids and EVs.
When charging at a low-power station, relay switches will allow current to flow to the car's inverter and electric motor during charging, those components that produce two-phase AC currents can be converted into a third DC, with higher power. and then put into the battery.
Patent image of the Stellantis DC fast charging system
The feature may not work immediately on all so many models. Stellantis is attached to a The 400-volt architecture for many EVs is in the near future it's built on its STLA platform that's slated to underpin the 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona and 2024 Jeep Wagoneer S. But it's confirmed that those big Ram EVs will charge at 800 volts.
Simplifying hardware charging has been a major focus for Stellantis. By 2023 the automaker discussed plans to ditch chargers and inverters altogether in an effort to make future EVs lighter.