XCharge launches C7 charger with EnBW as first customer

Chinese charging infrastructure manufacturer XCharge has unveiled the latest generation of its C7 fast-charging station. The new system delivers up to 480 kW and marks a further step in the company's expansion in Europe. In Germany, EnBW recently added XCharge to its list of approved suppliers and has already begun deploying the C7 across its charging network.

Xcharge hpc ladestation c7 — Image: XCharge

At Power2Drive Europe, taking place in Munich from 23 to 25 June, XCharge is presenting its new C7 charging station. The system builds on an earlier version of the product that the Chinese charging infrastructure manufacturer unveiled at the EV Nordic Summit in Oslo in 2023 with a charging capacity of 420 kW. The new C7 increases output by 60 kW to 480 kW. According to XCharge, the upgrade is designed to meet ‘the growing demand in Europe for high-performance, operator-friendly, and scalable charging infrastructure.’

XCharge adds: “The market relevance of this solution is further underscored by our collaboration with EnBW. The operator of Germany’s largest public fast-charging network is already deploying the C7 within its infrastructure and has recently officially listed XCharge as a supplier.”

The company confirmed the partnership in a press release sent to electrive. Earlier this week, EnBW announced its first German charging site offering up to 480 kW charging capacity in Karlsruhe. It is now clear that XCharge is supplying the hardware. Until now, EnBW’s charging infrastructure had been limited to 400 kW, matching the maximum output of the Alpitronic chargers widely deployed across its network.

Ahead of Power2Drive Europe, XCharge has disclosed only limited technical information about the C7. What is known is that the charging station can charge two vehicles simultaneously. However, the company has not specified how the available power is distributed between the two charging points. Instead, XCharge states that ‘in this performance class, reliability depends on the fully coordinated interaction of all components – from power delivery and thermal management to electromagnetic robustness, control logic, internal architecture, and serviceability.’

The only aspect XCharge elaborates on is the C7’s new adaptive thermal management system. This system dynamically adjusts fan speed based on module temperatures, ambient conditions, and current power demand. “This supports the system’s thermal stability across various operating states. Temperature fluctuations can be compensated for early, ensuring consistently reliable performance.”

Furthermore, the new C7 features ‘scalable power modules,’ though XCharge has not provided further details at this stage. Additional features include integrated cable management and the option for air- or liquid-cooled HPC charging cables. The charging station also supports the protocols OCPP 2.0.1, ISO 15118 Plug & Charge, and VDV 261.

XCharge positions the C7 as a high-performance all-rounder for public charging hubs, fleet depots, or retail parking areas. “With the new generation of the C7, we are consistently advancing an established fast-charging solution,” explains Albina Iljasov, Co-CEO of XCharge. “In Europe, we are observing strong demand for high-performance DC charging infrastructure that is efficient to operate, easy to integrate, and comfortable to use. The increased charging power and enhanced features of the C7 are specifically designed to meet these requirements.”

Source: Information provided via email, enbw.com (Karlsruhe)