ARE LIQUID COOLED CABLES THE BEST SOLUTION FOR HIGH POWER DC FAST CHARGING?

EV Channels Review

This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast delves into the complexities of liquid-cooled cables for DC fast charging. The hosts highlight that while liquid cooling enables higher power delivery and thinner cables, its current implementation in public charging networks is often unreliable, leading to poor charging experiences and significantly reduced speeds. Tesla is presented as a benchmark for successful liquid cooling, utilizing it extensively in their Supercharger network with fewer reported issues. However, even Tesla's system can thermal throttle under extreme loads. The discussion contrasts this with air-cooled cables, which are generally cheaper and less maintenance-intensive but have limitations in sustained high-current delivery and can be heavier. The episode touches on the high cost of these cables, their role as wear components, and the environmental challenges they face. Ultimately, the consensus leans towards the potential of improved air-cooled systems with boost functionality for a better balance of cost, reliability, and user experience for most passenger EVs.