Hyundai Motor’s ultra fast ‘Hi-Charger.’ (image: Hyundai Motor)
SEOUL, April 9 (Korea Bizwire) — The government plans to install 32 350-kilowatt (kW) ultra-rapid electric vehicle (EV) chargers at rest areas along major highways where the demand for EV charging is high.
After conducting field investigations for major highways, the Ministry of Environment selected 16 rest areas on eight highways including the Gyeongbu Expressway as sites for the installation of the new EV chargers.
Among them, the Highway Highway Service Area already had two ultra-rapid EV chargers installed in January.
In addition, the government also plans to install 1,000 more units of 200 kW rapid chargers at public facilities and parking facilities by the end of this year.
For Hyundai Motor Co.’s IONIQ 5 all-electric model, which has a maximum charging output of 220-240 kW, it takes 18 minutes for the ultra-rapid charger to charge the battery to 80 percent, compared to 21 minutes for a rapid charger.
To improve access to the chargers, the government plans to expand the range of information it provides on their location, number and availability through its website.
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
