Electric Cars

EVgo, a prominent fast-charging network, is set to significantly enhance its infrastructure by incorporating Tesla's advanced V4 Supercharger technology. This strategic collaboration will see EVgo deploying hundreds of its own-branded V4 Superchargers across various US cities, marking a pivotal moment in the expansion of electric vehicle charging capabilities. The initiative aims to provide robust and accessible charging solutions for a wider range of EV users, including both Tesla and non-Tesla vehicles, by leveraging Tesla's cutting-edge hardware and EVgo's extensive network.

The partnership, formalized through Tesla's "Supercharger for Business" program, underscores a growing trend of interoperability within the EV charging ecosystem. EVgo plans to commence construction on these new charging sites in the upcoming fall season, with the initial stations anticipated to become operational by the latter half of 2026. While specific locations are yet to be disclosed, each site is projected to house up to 20 charging stalls, strategically placed near retail and dining establishments to maximize convenience for drivers. These chargers will be seamlessly integrated into Tesla's navigation and trip planning systems, directing millions of Tesla owners to EVgo's expanding network and significantly boosting its visibility.

A key feature of these new EVgo Superchargers will be the inclusion of Tesla's innovative Magic Dock. This technology enables both North American Charging Standard (NACS) and Combined Charging System (CCS) equipped vehicles to charge without the need for additional adapters, promoting universal access. Furthermore, the V4 hardware comes with extended cables, addressing the common challenge of varying charging port locations across different EV models. These state-of-the-art chargers are capable of delivering up to 500 kW of power and supporting vehicle architectures ranging from 400 to 1,000 volts, potentially adding up to 200 miles of range in just 15 minutes, depending on the vehicle.

Badar Khan, CEO of EVgo, expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its role in simplifying fast charging access for EV drivers and bolstering America's public charging infrastructure. He emphasized that this deployment would welcome more Tesla and NACS-equipped vehicle owners to the EVgo network, which has witnessed a remarkable surge in demand—over 700%—in the past three years. As of July 31, EVgo already operates 240 NACS connectors, with expectations that more than 35 NACS-compatible EV models will be available in the US by the close of 2026, further solidifying the need for such expansive charging solutions.

Beyond this collaboration, EVgo is also dedicated to developing its proprietary next-generation charging system at its Innovation Lab in El Segundo, California, with the first units slated for installation by the end of 2026. This dual approach of integrating Tesla's proven technology while simultaneously innovating its own solutions positions EVgo at the forefront of the evolving EV charging landscape. The initiative not only expands charging options but also contributes to a more integrated and user-friendly experience for the rapidly growing community of electric vehicle drivers across the nation.

Unleashing Speed: The Ultimate Test for Electric Vehicle Range

Understanding High-Speed Range Depletion in Electric Vehicles

It's widely acknowledged that rapid driving significantly diminishes an electric vehicle's range. While most assessments are performed at speeds between 70 and 80 mph, a recent comprehensive evaluation on a segment of Germany's Autobahn, devoid of speed limits, sheds light on the range performance at speeds exceeding 100 mph.

The Audi Q6 E-Tron's Performance on the Autobahn

During this rigorous test, YouTuber Bjørn Nyland piloted an Audi Q6 E-Tron, a Quattro dual-motor variant capable of up to 455 horsepower with launch control and equipped with a 100 kWh battery (94.9 kWh usable capacity), at sustained high velocities. His objective was to quantify the reduction in range under extreme driving conditions.

Comparative Range Analysis: Standard vs. High-Speed Driving

Previous tests by Car & Driver indicated that a Q6 E-Tron Quattro could achieve approximately 250 miles (400 km) on a full charge at a steady 75 mph (120 km/h) on the highway. Bjorn's earlier findings mirrored this, contrasting sharply with the estimated EPA range of 307 miles (494 km). The Autobahn test aimed to push these boundaries further.

The High-Speed Test Commences: Initial Observations

Starting with a 92% battery charge, Bjorn immediately accelerated onto an unrestricted section of the Autobahn near Wittenberg. He maintained an average speed of approximately 124 mph (200 km/h) verified by GPS, with the speedometer indicating 206 to 210 km/h, nearing the vehicle's official top speed of 130 mph (210 km/h).

Energy Consumption and Thermal Management Under Pressure

Initially, electricity consumption soared to 1.1 miles/kWh (58.4 kWh/100 km) before stabilizing between 1.1 and 1.2 miles/kWh (50 to 55 kWh/100 km). Despite intermittent traffic and temporary speed restrictions, a substantial portion of the test was conducted at or close to 124 mph. The sustained high-speed operation led to an increase in battery temperature from approximately 102.2°F (39°C) to 120.2°F (49°C). Impressively, the Audi demonstrated robust thermal management, experiencing noticeable power limitations only when the charge level dropped to about 3%. Bjorn estimated that roughly 5% of the battery's energy was dissipated as heat during the entire run.

Reaching the Limits: Power Reduction and Final Stretch

The vehicle sustained 124 mph until the battery reached a critical 3% charge, at which point a reduction in available power became apparent. With the car forecasting 0% charge upon arrival at the designated charger at 2%, Bjorn prudently decreased his speed for the last 3 miles (5 km) to ensure a successful reach to the charging station.

Calculating the True Cost of Speed: Consumption and Estimated Range

After factoring in energy losses and a minor discrepancy in recorded distance, Bjorn determined the actual consumption to be around 1.17 miles/kWh (52.9 kWh/100 km). The vehicle traversed 96 miles (155 km) during the test. He further projected that a full battery would have allowed for an estimated 104 miles (168 km) under these demanding conditions.

High-Speed Driving: A Unique Challenge for Electric Vehicles

Sustained high-speed operation remains a critical area where electric vehicles exhibit a noticeable disadvantage compared to conventional internal combustion engine cars. Both vehicle types experience reduced efficiency as speed increases due to aerodynamic drag; however, an EV's comparatively smaller energy reserve and longer charging durations make the impact on range much more pronounced. This challenge is predominantly significant in environments like Germany's Autobahn, where drivers can maintain such speeds. In most other locations globally, strict speed limits mean that concerns about EV range at 124 mph are rarely a practical consideration for drivers.