The Volkswagen ID.4 is one of the most anticipated electric vehicles (EVs) in recent years, offering a blend of practicality, range, and cutting-edge technology. As with any electric vehicle, one of the key factors that potential buyers consider is charging time—how quickly can the battery be replenished, especially on long trips? To address this, we conducted a DC fast charging (DCFC) test on the VW ID.4 to see how well it performs when plugged into a high-powered charger.
Understanding DC Fast Charging
DC fast charging is the quickest way to recharge an electric vehicle’s battery, utilizing direct current (DC) to charge the battery directly, bypassing the vehicle’s onboard charger. This method is significantly faster than Level 1 or Level 2 charging, which use alternating current (AC). For drivers planning long-distance travel or who frequently drive in areas with DC fast chargers, the ability to quickly recharge the battery is a critical feature.
The VW ID.4 comes equipped with an 82 kWh battery, of which 77 kWh is usable. According to Volkswagen, the ID.4 supports up to 125 kW of DC fast charging, which should allow the vehicle to recharge from 5% to 80% in approximately 38 minutes under optimal conditions. But how does it perform in the real world?
The DC Fast Charging Test
To put the ID.4’s charging capabilities to the test, we plugged the vehicle into a 150 kW DC fast charger and monitored its performance from a low state of charge (SOC) up to 80%. This range is crucial because DC fast charging typically slows down significantly once the battery reaches 80%, to protect the battery’s longevity and prevent overheating.
Charging Speed and Performance
During our test, the ID.4 started charging at a relatively high rate, quickly ramping up to its peak of around 125 kW as advertised. This peak rate was maintained for the initial portion of the charge cycle, allowing the battery to gain a substantial amount of energy in a short period of time.
As expected, the charging rate began to taper off as the battery approached 80% SOC. This gradual reduction in speed is a standard practice among EVs to ensure battery health and longevity. Despite this tapering, the ID.4 managed to reach 80% in just about 38 minutes, aligning closely with Volkswagen’s claims.
Real-World Considerations
While the test results are impressive, it’s important to consider a few real-world factors that could influence charging times. For instance, the charging speed can be affected by the temperature of the battery (cold weather can slow down the process), the specific charger being used, and how many vehicles are sharing the charger at the same time. Additionally, the state of the battery’s charge when you begin can also impact how quickly it recharges.
It’s also worth noting that charging beyond 80% using DC fast charging isn’t always the most efficient approach due to the significant reduction in charging speed after this point. For most drivers, charging up to 80% provides a good balance between range and time spent at the charger, especially during long trips.
Conclusion
The VW ID.4’s performance in our DC fast charging test shows that it is well-equipped for both daily driving and longer journeys, with the ability to recharge quickly when using a DC fast charger. Achieving an 80% charge in under 40 minutes makes the ID.4 a practical option for those who need to cover long distances or simply want the convenience of a quick recharge.
As Volkswagen continues to expand its electric vehicle lineup, the ID.4 stands out as a versatile and reliable option, especially with its solid performance in real-world charging scenarios. For prospective buyers, the ability to quickly recharge on the go adds significant value to what is already an attractive package.