Fast Chargers vs. Standard Chargers: Best Practices for Airports Embracing EV Infrastructure

As electric vehicles (EVs) become increasingly prevalent, airports are facing the challenge of adapting their infrastructure to meet the growing demand for EV charging.

Portland International Airport (PDX) has emerged as a leader in this space, recently implementing fast-charging stations alongside its existing Level 2 chargers. This move highlights the importance of understanding the differences between fast and standard chargers, as well as the best practices for integrating these systems into airport operations.

Understanding the Basics: Fast Chargers vs. Level 2 Chargers

The primary distinction between fast chargers (DC fast chargers) and standard chargers (Level 2) lies in the speed at which they deliver power to an EV battery.

Level 2 chargers, commonly found in residential settings and public parking areas, provide a slower charge, typically delivering between 7 to 19 kilowatts (kW). These chargers are ideal for situations where vehicles can remain parked for extended periods, such as overnight or during a long flight.

In contrast, DC fast chargers deliver significantly higher power, often ranging from 50 kW to 350 kW, allowing EVs to charge much more quickly. For example, a DC fast charger can charge an EV battery to 80% in as little as 20 to 30 minutes, compared to several hours with a Level 2 charger.

This makes fast chargers particularly valuable in high-traffic areas like airports, where quick turnaround times are essential.

Why Fast Chargers Matter for Airports

At PDX, the decision to install fast chargers was driven by the needs of rental car companies, which require rapid charging to maintain fleet efficiency.

Jeremiah Hartley, Airport Rental Car Manager for Port of Portland, explained that the shift to fast charging was prompted by conversations with rental car brands like Hertz, which began incorporating EVs into their fleets but lacked the infrastructure to support them.

"Fast charging is the name of the game for rental cars," Hartley said. "They need to turn vehicles around quickly—get them cleaned, charged, and back on the line as fast as possible."

For airports, fast chargers can also enhance passenger satisfaction by reducing wait times for EV rentals and providing a convenient option for travelers who need a quick charge before hitting the road. Hartley noted that PDX’s fast chargers have already improved turnaround times for rental car companies, particularly for brands with plug-in hybrid vehicles.

Best Practices for Implementing EV Charging Infrastructure

1. Assess Power Availability and Plan for Future Demand

   One of the biggest challenges in installing fast chargers is the high-power demand they require. Hartley emphasized the importance of creative planning to identify underutilized power sources within existing infrastructure. At PDX, the team repurposed circuits originally intended for other uses, such as car wash blowers, to support the new charging stations.

Airports should also consider long-term power needs and work with utility providers to plan for future upgrades, such as new substations or feeders, to accommodate growing EV adoption.

2. Collaborate with Stakeholders

   Successful implementation of EV charging infrastructure requires collaboration with multiple stakeholders, including rental car companies, utilities, and third-party vendors. PDX partnered with Conrac Solutions, a facilities management company, and ENGIE, a consulting firm specializing in EV infrastructure, to manage the project. This collaborative approach ensured that the installation met the needs of all parties involved.

3. Consider a Hybrid Approach

   While fast chargers are essential for quick turnarounds, Level 2 chargers still have a role to play in airport settings. Hartley noted that PDX uses a combination of fast and Level 2 chargers to optimize efficiency. Vehicles are initially charged on fast chargers during cleaning and maintenance, then moved to Level 2 chargers to top off the battery while waiting for the next rental.

"A combination of Level 2 and DC fast charging might actually be the way to go," Hartley said. "It allows us to take advantage of dwell time and ensure vehicles are fully charged when they’re needed."

4. Prioritize Durability and Safety

   Airports are high-traffic environments, so charging equipment must be durable and safely installed. PDX opted for ceiling-mounted fast chargers from ChargePoint to minimize the risk of damage from vehicles. This innovative design also saved space in the rental car facility, which processes thousands of vehicles daily.

5. Plan for Future Growth

   As EV adoption continues to rise, airports must plan for the long term. Hartley predicts that fast charging will become the industry standard, driven by consumer demand for shorter charging times. Airports should consider future-proofing their infrastructure by designing flexible systems that can accommodate new technologies and higher power demands.

The Future of EV Charging at Airports

The shift toward electric transportation is not limited to passenger vehicles. PDX is also exploring electric ground service equipment, electric buses, and even electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. As Hartley noted, "Nearly everything at airports has the potential to move toward an electric space."

For airport managers, the key takeaway is clear: Investing in EV charging infrastructure is no longer optional — it’s essential. By understanding the differences between fast and standard chargers and adopting best practices for implementation, airports can position themselves as leaders in the transition to a more sustainable future.