Electric vehicles (EVs) have transformed daily commutes with convenient home charging. For most, a Level 2 charger at home is sufficient, allowing overnight recharges every few days. However, long road trips require careful planning, as charging times at highway stations become critical.
Most public chargers are Level 3 DC fast chargers, capable of refueling an EV rapidly. While frequent fast charging can degrade battery health, it remains a crucial option for long-distance travel. In this comparison, we examine different EVs based on their ability to charge from 10% to 80% at a highway pit stop.
DC fast chargers deliver high power, significantly reducing charging times. However, various factors influence the actual speed, including an EV’s capability, station power availability, and environmental conditions.
While convenient, fast charging is not ideal for daily use due to its impact on battery longevity. Despite this, it is a game-changer for road trips, offering drivers a chance to rest while their vehicle recharges. In our rankings, we rely on manufacturers’ best-case estimates for fast charging times, providing a reliable reference for potential EV buyers.
1. BMW i7: Luxury Meets Fast Charging
The 2025 BMW i7 exemplifies luxury and efficiency, reaching 80% charge in approximately 34 minutes. Its 314-mile range ensures minimal stops during long journeys.
The i7 offers premium features such as heated armrests, ventilated seats, and an advanced sound system. It also includes a spacious and elegantly designed interior.
Despite its high price, this model caters to those who value both comfort and performance. With additional high-tech features like a 31-inch rear-seat entertainment system, the i7 sets a high standard in the luxury EV market.
2. Tesla Model Y: A Balanced Performer
Tesla’s 2025 Model Y remains a strong contender, charging up to 80% in 27 minutes. While once the leader in range, it now faces increasing competition. With a 337-mile maximum range, it offers impressive efficiency.
Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network provides an added advantage, ensuring easy access to charging stations.
The Model Y’s interior features minimalist styling, ample cargo space, and advanced driver-assistance technology. Though competitors have caught up, Tesla continues to hold a competitive edge in charging infrastructure and reliability.
3. Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV: Spacious and Fast-Charging
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV charges to 80% in just 31 minutes. Its 323-mile range places it among the best for long-distance travel. The luxurious cabin features soft-close doors, quad-zone climate control, and an optional 56-inch Hyperscreen dashboard.
The SUV’s silent ride and spacious interior make it a top choice for premium EV buyers. Mercedes has also expanded its list of standard features for 2025, making the EQS SUV an even more compelling option.
4. Mercedes-Benz EQS Sedan: High-Range Luxury
Similar to its SUV counterpart, the EQS Sedan charges to 80% in 30 minutes but boasts a longer 352-mile range. The standard 56-inch Hyperscreen, ambient lighting, and premium materials create a top-tier driving experience.
The sedan’s nearly silent ride enhances its luxurious appeal, offering more cargo space than most EVs.
As an S-Class equivalent, the EQS Sedan delivers an exceptional balance of technology, comfort, and performance, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize range and refinement.
5. BMW i4: Compact Luxury with Quick Charging
The 2025 BMW i4 offers fast charging in 30 minutes and a solid 318-mile range. The performance-oriented M50 variant trades range for increased power. Inside, the i4 features a 14.9-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, and premium materials.
Standard features include wireless smartphone connectivity and ambient LED lighting. While it may not be as spacious as larger models, the i4’s balance of performance and efficiency makes it a compelling choice among compact luxury EVs.
6. BMW i5: A Practical Luxury EV
The BMW i5, smaller and more affordable than the i7, charges to 80% in 30 minutes. Its 295-mile range falls slightly short compared to rivals. It features a sleek digital display combining a 14.9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch instrument cluster.
The newly introduced xDrive40 trim adds all-wheel drive and increased horsepower. Despite its slightly lower range, the i5 remains a well-rounded option for luxury EV buyers seeking a balance of affordability, features, and fast-charging capability.
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7. Polestar 2: Quick Charging, Moderate Range
The 2025 Polestar 2 achieves an impressive 28-minute charge time but has a modest 254-mile range. It now comes exclusively with all-wheel drive and a single trim level packed with standard features.
Pilot Assist, Volvo’s advanced driver-assistance system, is included. While its range is lower than competitors, the Polestar 2 remains a strong choice for those prioritizing fast charging and premium features.
8. Kia EV9: A Family-Friendly Electric SUV
The 2025 Kia EV9 is a spacious three-row SUV with an outstanding 20-minute charging time. Its 304-mile range is competitive, and its interior is comfortable, with adult-friendly third-row seating.
The EV9 offers a large cargo area and a front trunk for additional storage. As one of the most practical family-friendly EVs, it provides an excellent balance of range, space, and charging speed.
9. Audi e-Tron GT: Performance-Oriented Efficiency
The Audi e-Tron GT combines sporty performance with a rapid 23-minute charge time. However, its 249-mile range is relatively short. The luxurious interior includes wireless smartphone connectivity and ambient lighting.
Though cargo space is limited, its handling and acceleration make it a great choice for performance-focused drivers. The e-Tron GT proves that EVs can be both fast and efficient.
10. Porsche Taycan: Unmatched Speed and Performance
The Porsche Taycan boasts an industry-leading 20-minute charge time, with some configurations charging even faster. The base trim offers a 318-mile range, but high-performance versions exceed 1,000 horsepower.
While expensive, the Taycan delivers Porsche’s signature driving experience. Its cutting-edge technology and top-tier performance make it a leader in the luxury EV segment.
11. Hyundai Ioniq 6: Affordable and Efficient
Breaking the 20-minute barrier, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 charges in just 18 minutes and offers a 342-mile range. Its sub-$ 40,000 starting price makes it an excellent value.
The interior includes a digital instrument cluster, a user-friendly infotainment system, and multiple USB ports. A head-up display is now an optional feature. Despite its small trunk, the Ioniq 6 remains one of the most compelling budget-friendly EVs.
12. Genesis Electrified GV70: Quick Charging, Limited Range
The Genesis Electrified GV70 charges in 18 minutes but has a lower 236-mile range. However, it offers bidirectional charging, allowing it to power a home if needed.
Its interior exceeds expectations for a luxury SUV, featuring wireless connectivity, a digital key, and heated seats. Though its range is limited, the GV70’s fast-charging and upscale design make it a strong contender.
13. Hyundai Ioniq 5: The Top Performer
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 leads the pack with a 20-minute charge time and the fastest Level 2 charging at just 5.5 hours. It offers a 318-mile range, a tech-focused design, and a spacious interior.
Despite its minimalist styling, the Ioniq 5’s efficiency and practicality make it the best choice for EV buyers who are prioritizing both affordability and performance.
EV fast-charging capabilities vary widely, with some models offering exceptional speed and range. While luxury models like the BMW i7 and Mercedes EQS impress with their high-end features, budget-friendly options such as the Hyundai Ioniq 6 prove that rapid charging is accessible at lower price points.
Whether seeking luxury, performance, or practicality, today’s EV market provides a wide range of choices to suit different driving needs.
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