800V vehicle architectures offer significant advantages, addressing one of the major challenges electric vehicles face: achieving faster charging without compromising battery longevity. However, Hyundai seems intent on exaggerating its advantages through somewhat misleading marketing tactics.
What Is Charging Speed, Anyway?
Before we delve into the specifics of charging, it's crucial to note that no electric vehicle consistently charges at its advertised maximum speed. Most vehicles reach their peak charging speed only when their battery is nearly depleted, maintaining that speed for the initial 20% charge—assuming optimal battery and charger temperatures.
For instance, when a vehicle claims to support 200kW DC charging, one shouldn't expect to charge a 100kWh battery from empty to full in just 30 minutes. In reality, average charging speeds will often be around half that rate, resulting in charging times exceeding an hour.
If Everyone Is Doing It, What’s the Issue?
While most vehicles may not sustain maximum charging speeds for long, they can reach these speeds when it matters most—at lower battery levels, when a quick top-up is required.
Hyundai and Kia vehicles, however, will not achieve 350kW charging even momentarily, peaking at just under 250kW—far from the figures the company suggests.
Are They Misleading Us?
Not in the strictest sense. Hyundai, as a prominent company, is unlikely to make outright false claims. Instead, they highlight the specifications of the chargers rather than the cars themselves. On Hyundai or Kia's website, you'll find charging times listed for “DC Fast Charge 50kW” and “DC Fast Charge 350kW.”
Thus, while they are not technically incorrect, these figures strongly imply that the car can utilize the full output of a 350kW charger. In reality, the charging rate wouldn't differ whether a 250kW charger or a 350kW charger is used, and it's hard to believe that a team of highly skilled engineers isn't aware of this fact.
Hyundai's unique phrasing sets it apart from other manufacturers, suggesting a degree of intentional misdirection. While not outright lying, the company appears to present inflated numbers, allowing media and potential customers to perpetuate the misconception.
Several reviewers have been taken in by this misleading information, as verifying peak charging speeds can be complex. Moreover, owner forums are filled with individuals convinced they can reach 350kW speeds if only certain charging networks weren't obstructing them.
So, Is 800V Architecture Truly Superior to 400V?
Yes, it is. Revisiting the initial point regarding peak versus average charging speeds, 800V vehicles can maintain their peak or near-peak rates much longer—sometimes even beyond a 50% state of charge (SoC). This results in significantly shorter total charging times for the common charging range of 10-80%, even if peak speeds are comparable to 400V rivals.
To obtain real-life charging data, we recommend utilizing our battery charging tool, which provides exact charging times for various cars, chargers, and charge percentages. This tool is invaluable for planning your next trip.
