Germany’s largest fast-charging network operator EnBW has expanded field testing of fast-charging hardware and software from XCharge, extending trials to three additional locations in Baden-Württemberg as it looks to diversify its supplier base.
EnBW said the expanded test will include sites in Rutesheim, Karlsruhe’s Durlach Centre and Karlsruhe Railway Station, in addition to its EnBW City location in Stuttgart, where an initial XCharge charging station was installed in August 2025. In total, ten XCharge charging stations are now available within EnBW’s fast-charging network, known as HyperNetz.
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Until now, EnBW has relied almost exclusively on DC fast chargers from Alpitronic, whose Hypercharger models form the backbone of its infrastructure. While Alpitronic will remain EnBW’s primary supplier following a recent extension of their partnership, the utility said it is testing alternative providers to reduce dependency risks.
“Reliance on a single supplier carries risks, particularly in times of global uncertainties and supply chain challenges,” said Volker Rimpler, Chief Technology Officer for E-Mobility at EnBW. “That is why we continuously monitor supplier markets and test promising technologies to ensure our supply chains remain resilient and economically viable.”
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The utility is testing the XCharge C7 Ultra-Fast Charger, which delivers up to 400 kilowatts of power, matching the output of EnBW’s existing Hypercharger HYC400 units. XCharge said the system supports up to 600 amps, features dual CCS connectors, and offers a modular design intended to simplify installation and maintenance while complying with German metering and billing regulations.
For more than two years, EnBW has evaluated XCharge’s hardware and software, initially in laboratory conditions and later in live operation in Stuttgart. “XCharge has so far met all requirements in terms of technology, service, data protection, and software,” Rimpler said, adding that thousands of charging sessions have been analysed to refine system performance.
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The expanded trial, including EnBW’s flagship charging hub in Rutesheim, is aimed at collecting additional operational data before any supply agreement is considered. EnBW said the results will determine whether cooperation with XCharge can be developed further, underscoring the strategic importance of supplier diversification for long-term network security and technical advancement.
For XCharge, which manages its international operations from Hamburg and Austin, a potential deal with EnBW would represent a significant step into a European market dominated by established players such as Alpitronic, Siemens, ABB E-Mobility, and Ekoenergetyka.
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“This project is particularly important for us because the fast-charging infrastructure in Germany sets high technical and regulatory standards,” said Albina Iljasov, Head of Europe at XCharge. “This expanded test is therefore an important milestone for us and supports the further expansion of fast-charging in Germany.”