Summary
- Tesla’s latest Supercharger update introduces the V4 Cabinet that supports vehicles with battery packs rated between 400V and 1,000V
- The V4 Cabinet can power up to eight stalls at once, with a smaller footprint and less complexity
- The V4 Cabinet results in faster charging speeds, up to 30% faster for the Cybertruck
- The new cabinet version has a 2% efficiency improvement compared to the previous model, resulting in 100 gigawatt-hours/year in waste heat saved
- The first Tesla Supercharger sites with V4 Cabinets are currently in the permitting process and will open next year
Article
Tesla Rolls Out V4 Cabinet for Faster Supercharger Speeds
Tesla’s latest update to its Supercharger network comes in the form of the V4 Cabinet, promising faster charging speeds for some vehicles. This new cabinet can power up to eight stalls at once, supporting vehicles with battery packs rated between 400V and 1,000V. The previous version, V3 Cabinet, was limiting the charging speeds, especially for EVs with higher voltage architectures. With the V4 Cabinet, vehicles like the Tesla Cybertruck and Lucid Air can see a significant increase in charging speeds.
Improving the Supercharger Network
The Tesla Supercharger network has always been a standout in the DC fast charging world due to its widespread availability and ease of use. However, charging speeds have been a concern for some users as other networks like Electrify America offer higher power outputs. With the introduction of the V4 Cabinet, Tesla is aiming to address this issue by delivering faster charging speeds. The V4 Cabinet has a smaller footprint, less complexity, and can power up to eight stalls simultaneously, doubling its capacity compared to the previous version.
Elevating Charging Speeds with V4 Cabinet
The updated power delivery box not only improves efficiency but also allows for 30% faster charging speeds for vehicles like the Tesla Cybertruck. In a promotional video released by Tesla, the Cybertruck was shown charging at up to 500 kW, a significant upgrade from the previous limitations. The V4 Cabinet supports battery packs rated between 400V and 1,000V, making it compatible with a wide range of electric vehicles, including the Tesla Semi which can achieve a power output of up to 1.2 Megawatts.
Efficiency and Reliability
According to Max de Zegher, Director of Charging in North America at Tesla, the new Supercharger Cabinet eliminates the need for DC busbars between cabinets, streamlining the charging process. The V4 Cabinet boasts a 2% efficiency improvement over its predecessor, resulting in significant energy savings. With Tesla Superchargers delivering over 5 terawatt-hours of energy per year, this efficiency improvement translates to 100 gigawatt-hours/year in waste heat saved. Tesla claims that the electronics in the V4 Cabinet are designed to be the most reliable on the planet, ensuring high throughput with lower costs.
Future of Supercharging
The first Tesla Supercharger sites equipped with V4 Cabinets are currently in the permitting process and are expected to open next year. With the new cabinets in place, Tesla aims to further solidify its position as a leader in the electric vehicle charging infrastructure. The faster charging speeds provided by the V4 Cabinet will not only benefit existing Tesla owners but also attract potential customers looking for convenient, high-speed charging solutions. As electric vehicles continue to gain popularity, improvements in charging infrastructure will be essential to support the growing EV market.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Tesla’s introduction of the V4 Cabinet marks a significant step forward in the world of electric vehicle charging. The improved charging speeds, efficiency, and reliability of the V4 Cabinet highlight Tesla’s commitment to enhancing the Supercharger network for its customers. With the ability to power up to eight stalls simultaneously and support a wide range of battery pack voltages, the V4 Cabinet sets a new standard for fast and efficient charging. As Tesla continues to expand its Supercharger network with V4 Cabinets, electric vehicle owners can look forward to faster, more reliable charging experiences on the go.
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