Electric Vehicle Fast Charging Technologies and Grid Integration - A Comprehensive Review

The rapid advancement in electric vehicle (EV) technology stimulated the development of fast chargers, with innovative solutions in power electronics (PEs), communication, protection, and control. This literature review explores the evolving landscape of fast EV charging infrastructures, and focuses on their topologies, advanced PEs solutions, and associated challenges. In addition, this article explores the multifaceted aspects of fast charging systems. In addition, the article discusses the protection systems, communication systems, and control techniques for facilitating seamless, safe, and reliable interaction between the grid, fast EV chargers (FEVCs), and the EV. Furthermore, the review investigates the interaction between the grid and FEVCs through ancillary services, and highlights their potential to enhance grid stability and reliability. Although a significant research is conducted in the literature and a significant progress is achieved, a notable gap persists between the available academic literature and commercially deployed solutions. Investigating this gap is crucial for accelerating the adoption of FEVC technologies and maximizing their benefits for both consumers and grid operators. Therefore, a reference design is synthesized that combines the recommended elements identified throughout the literature.