Unlike the existing alternating-current charging stations capable of delivering 3,5 kW and thereby recharging the EVs in about 6 hours, the new direct-current charging points with a charging capacity of up to 50 kW will be able to completely recharge an electric car within 30 minutes.

E.ON intends to investigate further the possibilities of the direct-current charging stations, first of its kind in Germany, with plans for a second station to be installed later this year. The electricity used in the stations will be generated exclusively at E.ON’s hydroelectric plants.

The 30-minute charging stations are only a starting point for the development of even faster possibilities. The energy company plans to shorten the charging process in only few minutes making it comparable to the normal refueling time.

The new plug-in stations meet the requirements of the CHAdeMO protocol enabling a recharge of the following Electric Vehicles that are already available on German market: Mitsubishi iMiEV,Peugeot iOn, Citroën C-Zero and soon, the Nissan Leaf.

The rapid charging will enable EV drivers to use their vehicles for long-distance traveling and reach out to potential EV owners that do not have the possibility of garage charging. ‘Fast charging stations definitely make electric vehicles more versatile,’ emphasized Ruth Werhahn, head of Mobility at E.ON. The customers will be able to use the new stations for a fee of €5 ($7.25) in the initial period.