Product testing: ZKTeco EV chargers CP8-DC060/120/160

Amid a rise in electric vehicles (EVs), demand for EV chargers has also increased. In this regard, ZKTeco has launched their CP8-DC060/120/160 EV chargers using direct current, which, as opposed to alternate current, can charge EVs faster, reducing the inconvenience of long waiting for charging. This article takes a closer look at the chargers (see picture on right, courtesy of a&s China), based on product testing by a&s China.
 

Modular design for easy maintenance

 
On the outside, the ZK EV chargers have dimensions of 725×290×1600mm, 725×420×1600mm and 700×522×1834mm, depending on the power output. The outer shell is constructed with high-strength sheet metal with sealed edges offering comprehensive protection against moisture, mildew, and salt spray. The IP54 rating makes the chargers suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments.
 
On the front of the charger is a 7-inch LCD touchscreen display with three LED indicators: "Power," "Charge A," and "Charge B." "Charge A" and "Charge B" correspond to the left and right charging guns, while "Power" indicates the power status of the charger.
 
Below the display is an NFC card reader for easy card reading. Below that is the emergency circuit breaker, covered by a breakable transparent plastic cover. Simply tapping the cover breaks the plastic cover, and the user can press the emergency button to cut off the power supply to the charger.
 
On both sides of the charger are charging guns, which utilize national standard fast-charging connectors that are compatible with over 99.9 percent of new national standard EVs available in China.
 
Inside the charger, ZKTeco employs a modular design, which allows for quick replacement of damaged parts. Users can also install and replace parts based on their needs, effectively reducing installation and maintenance costs. To ensure the safety and reliability of internal components, ZKTeco incorporates sponge filters into the built-in ventilation system to effectively block dust, particles and other disruptive objects.
 
Through product testing, it was found that the charger can work normally in a temperature range of -30 to 75℃, humidity of 5 to 95 percent, and in places below 2,000 meters above sea level. The input voltage is 380Vac±20 percent. The maximum output power is 60kW, 120kW and 160kW according to different models, effectively meeting charging needs in different scenarios. Furthermore, the chargers incorporate multiple protection mechanisms against overvoltage, undervoltage, overload, short-circuit, ground fault, high temperatures, low temperatures and lightning, ensuring safe and reliable operation.
 

Ensuring user safety

 
Consumer-oriented, the EV chargers are simple to use. The driver simply removes the charging gun, inserts it into the EV’s charging port, scans the QR code, pays and begins charging. When the vehicle is fully charged, the charger automatically shuts off and notifies the user via the front display or app.
 
The charger can achieve a maximum fast-charging power of 160kW. Even with some power loss, the final output efficiency remains at ≥94.5 percent, ensuring stable power input.
 
The chargers have various safety features. For example, when the charger detects power saturation, it automatically shuts off and sends a notification to the user, preventing overcharging and damaging the battery's health.
 
Meanwhile, the charging gun features a snap-on latch. During charging, the latch remains locked, preventing it from falling out or being accidentally removed.
 
To ensure power safety, the charger is in use only when the charging gun is plugged into the vehicle. The charger automatically disconnects power when the charging gun is detached, ensuring safe operation.
 
The charger also features a door-opening protection mechanism. Once the front cover is opened, the charger automatically shuts off power. Closing the cover automatically restores the device to normal operation.
 

Embracing a new era of smart charging

 
To make life easier for parking operators, the chargers can be integrated into their parking management system. Such integration allows operators to offer discounts, meet certain regulatory requirements, and monitor for fuel vehicles parked in EV spaces. Further, with the integration, parking operators can view charging orders, retrieve vehicle entry and exit images, handle abnormal orders, remotely open gates, and conduct online intercom communications at anytime from anywhere, making parking management easier than ever.
 

Product advantages

 
Use of DC charging: Unlike conventional AC charging, the CP8-DC060/120/160 chargers offer faster charging speeds, significantly reducing waiting times for drivers;
 
Compliance with national and industry standards: Capable of charging 99.9 percent of China-made pure EVs and suitable for parking lots in shopping malls, communities, parks, and scenic spots;
 
Excellent safety features: Featuring multiple protection mechanisms against overvoltage, undervoltage, overload, short-circuit, ground fault, high temperatures, low temperatures and lightning.
 

a&s comments

 
Amid the rapid development of the electric vehicle industry, more charging stations have been constructed, and the problem of “charging is insufficient” has been largely addressed. Yet the challenge of "charging is slow” remains. ZKTeco’s new-generation DC chargers, CP8-DC060/120/160, uses direct current, which can charge EVs faster, reducing the inconvenience of long waiting for charging.
 
Further, unlike other brands, ZKTeco’s chargers allow EV users to easily charge their vehicles without downloading any apps. Using a WeChat mini-program, users can also quickly search for nearby charging stations, reducing the time it takes to find available chargers. Last but not least, the chargers can be integrated into the operator’s parking management system. With the chargers, parking lot operation and management will be significantly improved, while a greener earth will also become a reality.