As electric vehicles continue their rapid adoption across Europe and beyond, businesses face a critical decision: what type of charging infrastructure should they invest in? Level 3 chargers, also known as DC fast chargers, represent the premium tier of EV charging technology—and for many businesses, they're becoming essential.
What Are Level 3 EV Chargers?
Level 3 chargers, or DC Fast Chargers (DCFC), bypass the vehicle's onboard charger to deliver power directly to the battery. This enables significantly faster charging speeds compared to Level 1 and Level 2 alternatives.
3-5 miles/hour
Standard outlet (120V)
12-80 miles/hour
240V AC charging
3-20 miles/minute
DC Fast Charging
Power Output & Charging Speed
Level 3 chargers typically range from 50kW to 350kW, with most commercial installations falling between 50kW and 150kW. At these power levels:
- 50kW charger: Adds approximately 180 miles of range per hour
- 150kW charger: Can charge most EVs from 10% to 80% in 20-30 minutes
- 350kW charger: Designed for next-generation EVs with 800V architecture
Why Businesses Should Consider Level 3 Chargers
Customer Attraction
Fast charging attracts EV drivers who need quick top-ups. Retail locations, restaurants, and service stations see increased foot traffic and customer dwell time.
Revenue Generation
Level 3 chargers can generate significant revenue through charging fees. Premium pricing for fast charging is widely accepted by EV drivers.
Brand Positioning
Installing DC fast chargers signals environmental commitment and positions your business as forward-thinking and customer-centric.
Future-Proofing
As EV adoption accelerates, businesses with charging infrastructure will have a competitive advantage over those without.
Cost Considerations
Level 3 chargers require significant investment, but the ROI can be substantial:
Initial Costs
- • Equipment: €30,000 - €150,000 per unit
- • Installation: €10,000 - €50,000
- • Grid connection upgrades: Variable
- • Permits and engineering: €5,000 - €15,000
Ongoing Revenue
- • Average session revenue: €15 - €40
- • Sessions per day: 5-20 (location dependent)
- • Annual revenue potential: €25,000 - €150,000
- • Payback period: 3-7 years typical
How Voltaage Can Help
Deciding where and how many Level 3 chargers to install requires careful analysis. Voltaage's AI-powered platform helps businesses and municipalities make data-driven decisions by analyzing:
- • Traffic patterns and EV adoption rates in your area
- • Grid capacity and connection costs
- • Competitive landscape and demand forecasting
- • Revenue projections and ROI modeling