On December 14, Hyundai Kefico commenced the operation of its self-developed EV charger after completing KC safety certification.
They supplied three 360kW-channel chargers to Hyundai Motor’s Seosan straight course and are considering expanding installations for Hyundai Motor Group and external charging operators. Currently, they have established a manufacturing line with an annual production capacity of up to 2,500 chargers and plan to promote substantial orders and charger supply starting next year.
Hyundai Kefico’s 360kW ultra-fast self-developed EV charger draws attention as it is produced by a company specializing in automotive electronic control systems.
Hyundai Kefico has enhanced the connectivity and compatibility between vehicles and chargers, ensuring differentiation and product reliability through: ▲ development history of Hyundai and Kia EV chargers/power controllers, ▲ over 35 years of accumulated control component development capabilities, and ▲ rigorous automotive-level testing validations. They have developed essential products influencing charging performance such as PLC communication controllers and power modules, and have completed durability tests considering harsh external environmental conditions.
They are building a product lineup centered on rapid and ultra-fast chargers, ranging from 120kW to 360kW, and have the advantage of split power bank configurations, facilitating future expansions and maintenance. Additionally, the separation of control (low voltage) and high voltage sections minimizes interference, ensuring safe charging. While charging times vary by vehicle, it can charge up to 80% in just 18 minutes based on a 20% battery level, contributing not only to the convenience of EV users but also to the expansion of electric vehicle adoption.
Hyundai Kefico’s solutions to chronic problems in the existing charger market, such as cable management difficulties, frequent malfunctions, and customer service delays, are noteworthy. Through collaboration with partners, they have localized the liquid-cooled cables and cooling systems, while their automatic cable management system, equipped with high-durability motors developed in-house, prevents cable dragging and minimizes damage. By monitoring the real-time status of the chargers through their own operational charging monitoring system, they have enhanced preventive maintenance and can predict the remaining lifespan of key components, allowing charging operators to secure optimal operating rates. Additionally, they expect an increase in operator satisfaction by providing emergency dispatch and after-service within 12 hours of a malfunction report.
A representative from Hyundai Kefico remarked, “It is very encouraging that we have directly developed and mass-produced an ultra-fast EV charger with core components integrated for the first time in the Hyundai Motor Group.” They plan to offer high-quality premium EV chargers based on a deep understanding as a vehicle integrated control and power/charging control specialist for EV vehicles.
Hyundai Kefico is independently developing various lineups to successfully promote its charger new business. They plan to utilize the HMG E-CTP charger platform to develop an integrated 200kW charger, aiming for mass production in the first half of next year while fully fulfilling its role as a charger manufacturer within the group by supplying to Korea Electric Vehicle Charging Service.
Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr