Huawei, renowned for its smartphones, is making significant strides in the electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure sector. According to a report by Nikkei Asia, the tech giant plans to deploy 100,000 fast charging stations across China this year in collaboration with partners, targeting locations such as shops and motorway service stations.
While Huawei’s entry into the EV business was announced in 2021, focusing on automated electric cars, the move into charging infrastructure marks a new chapter. Collaborations with Chinese OEMs like Changan and Chery have already been established, showcasing Huawei’s commitment to the electric mobility sector.
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The fast charging network, slated to reach 100,000 units by 2024, will include both 250 kW chargers and stations with up to 600 kW of power. These high-power chargers, developed by Huawei subsidiary Huawei Digital Power, are a shift from manufacturing individual charger components to producing complete stations, reflecting the company’s strategic pivot.
Huawei’s ambitious plans were highlighted in a report by Chinese news agency Yicai, indicating that the fast-charging stations will be rolled out in over 340 Chinese cities through collaborations with customers and business partners. Hou Jinlong, President of Huawei Digital Power, emphasized the scale and impact of the initiative.
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“We need 1 km-per-second charging in order to give drivers the same experience as refueling,” stated a high-ranking manager at Huawei Digital Power, as quoted by Nikkei Asia. The charging stations will be compatible with all electric vehicles, offering a high charging power of up to 600 kW with a cooling system based on a liquid coolant. While Huawei will initially focus on the domestic market, expansion abroad is not off the table.
In a recent press release, Huawei outlined its vision for a future charging network, anticipating a surge in demand for fast-charging vehicles. The company stated, “With the maturity of third-generation power semiconductors and high-C-rate traction batteries… EVs are steering toward the high-voltage ultra-fast charging domain.” Huawei predicts that high-voltage ultra-fast charging vehicle models will dominate the market by 2028, comprising over 60% of total vehicle models.
