Most electric cars on European roads today still rely on 400-volt architecture, a system that works perfectly well for everyday driving but is slowly reaching its limits as battery sizes grow and charging speeds increase.
The new generation of EVs is moving toward 800‑volt (and even higher) platforms, which bring big perks: less heat buildup, more consistent performance, higher efficiency, and way faster DC charging. If you’re thinking about switching to an EV, it’s worth considering one of the current 800‑volt models or, if you’re not in a rush, waiting a year or two will give you way more options as this tech goes mainstream. Or you could just hang tight a few months for the BMW Neue Klasse to hit dealer lots.
To make things easier, I’ve put together a list of EVs with 800‑volt or higher battery systems that are actually available to buy in Europe right now. Below is a complete overview of the models, including battery sizes, ranges, and charging specs.
Note: I’ve also added real-world range for each EV in the tables, based on data from EV Database.
Table of Contents
- Hyundai Ioniq 5
- Hyundai Ioniq 6
- Kia EV6
- Kia EV9
- Porsche Taycan
- Porsche Macan Electric
- Porsche Cayenne Electric
- Audi e-tron GT
- Audi A6 e-tron
- Audi Q6 e-tron
- Lucid Air
- Zeekr 7X
- Lotus Eletre
- Mercedes-Benz CLA
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Hyundai Ioniq 5
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 really brought 800‑volt tech into the mainstream. Built on the E-GMP platform, it’s super quick to charge (up to 263 kW on DC) and stays efficient even on long motorway runs. The 84 kWh battery gives it a WLTP range of around 570 km. Throw in its futuristic looks and roomy interior, and it’s one of the most solid all-rounders in the EV market.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 84 kWh |
| WLTP range / Real-world range | 570 km (354 mi) / 450 km (280 mi) |
| Rated efficiency / Real-world efficiency | 160 Wh/km / 178 Wh/km |
| Max DC charging | 263 kW |
| Drivetrain | RWD or AWD |
| Platform voltage | 800 V |
Hyundai Ioniq 6
Using the same E-GMP platform as the Ioniq 5, the Ioniq 6 benefits from ultra-fast 800-volt charging but adds a much more aerodynamic shape. This results in excellent range of 614 km (WLTP standard) and some of the best real-world consumption figures in its class.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 77.4 kWh NCM |
| WLTP range / Real-world range | 614 km (354 mi) / 495 km (308 km) |
| Rated efficiency / Real-world efficiency | 143 Wh/km / 149 Wh/km |
| Max DC charging | 233 kW |
| Drivetrain | RWD or AWD |
| Platform voltage | 800 V |
Kia EV6
The Kia EV6 is a crossover with a dynamic, sporty character with 800-volt architecture. It comes with an 84 kWh battery, delivering a WLTP range of approximately 546 km (340 miles). Its fast-charging capability (DC charging peaks at 263 k) remains one of the best in its class, and higher-performance variants like the GT deliver remarkable acceleration without sacrificing charging performance.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 84 kWh |
| WLTP range / Real-world range | 546 km (340 mi) / 440 km (273 mi) |
| Rated efficiency / Real-world efficiency | 170 Wh/km / 182 Wh/km |
| Max DC charging | 263 kW |
| Drivetrain | RWD or AWD |
| Platform voltage | 800 V |
Kia EV9
As a large, three-row SUV, the Kia EV9 brings 800-volt charging to the family segment. It comes with a 99.8 kWh battery and delivers a WLTP range of about 579 km (360 miles). Despite its size, it can still recharge extremely quickly (209 kW) and offers excellent practicality with a high-quality cabin and generous equipment.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 99.8 kWh NCM |
| WLTP range / Real-world range | 579 km (360 mi) / 450 km (280 mi) |
| Rated efficiency / Real-world efficiency | 199 Wh/km / 213 Wh/km |
| Max DC charging | 209 kW |
| Drivetrain | RWD or AWD |
| Platform voltage | 800 V |
Porsche Taycan
I had no idea there were so many Porsche Taycan models until I started digging for this article. Honestly, lucky for me I’m not rich and can’t afford one. Otherwise, I’d be completely lost in all the different variants.
Back to the topic: The Porsche Taycan comes with a 105 kWh battery, giving it a WLTP range of around 678 km (about 421 miles). On compatible 800‑volt chargers, it can handle up to 322 kW DC, so you can get from 10–80% in roughly 20–25 minutes depending on conditions. It’s a high-performance EV that combines Porsche’s signature driving dynamics with fast charging and a very respectable range, making it one of the standout 800‑volt options currently available.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 105 kWh NCM |
| WLTP range / Real-world range | 678 km (421 mi) / 575 km (357 mi) |
| Rated efficiency / Real-world efficiency | 167 Wh/km / 169 Wh/km |
| Max DC charging | 322 kW |
| Drivetrain | RWD or AWD |
| Platform voltage | 800 V |
Porsche Macan Electric
The Macan Electric is one of the first models on VW Group’s new Premium Platform Electric (PPE), with 800‑volt architecture as standard. Its 100 kWh battery hits up to 641 km of range and can charge from 10‑80% in just 21 minutes at max power. Volkswagen knows how to optimize production, so don’t be surprised to see the same battery and charging setup in Audi models mentioned here.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 100 kWh NCM |
| WLTP range / Real-world range | 641 km (398 mi) / 495 km (308 mi) |
| Rated efficiency / Real-world efficiency | 167 Wh/km / 192 Wh/km |
| Max DC charging | 270 kW |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Platform voltage | 800 V |
Porsche Cayenne Electric
The Porsche Cayenne Electric comes with a 113 kWh battery, giving it a WLTP range of about 642 km (399 miles). It’s all-wheel drive and can handle up to 390 kW on compatible 800‑volt chargers, so you can top the battery from 10–80% really fast. Like, 16 minutes fast.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 113 kWh NCM |
| WLTP range / Real-world range | 642 km (399 mi) / 520 km (323 mi) |
| Rated efficiency / Real-world efficiency | 197 Wh/km / 208 Wh/km |
| Max DC charging | 390 kW |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Platform voltage | 800 V |
Audi e-tron GT
The e-tron GT was the first Audi model to feature this technology, which it shares with its platform sibling, the Porsche Taycan. Its battery has a capacity of 105 kWh, delivering a WLTP range of 487 km (303 miles). On compatible 800‑volt chargers, it can charge at up to 320 kW, enabling a 10–80% charge in roughly 18 minutes.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 105 kWh NCM |
| WLTP range / Real-world range | 609 km (378 mi) / 540 km (335 miles) |
| Rated efficiency / Real-world efficiency | 180 Wh/km / 180 Wh/km |
| Max DC charging | 322 kW |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Platform voltage | 800 V |
Audi A6 e-tron
With its latest A6 lineup built on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE), Audi is making a serious move into the 800‑volt world. Depending on the configuration, it delivers a WLTP range of up to 627 km (390 miles). On compatible 800‑volt chargers, it supports fast DC charging up to 270 kW.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 100 kWh NCM |
| WLTP range / Real-world range | 756 km (470 mi) / 600 km (373 mi) |
| Rated efficiency / Real-world efficiency | 140 Wh/km / 158 Wh/km |
| Max DC charging | 270 kW |
| Drivetrain | RWD or AWD |
| Platform voltage | 800 V |
Audi Q6 e-tron
Another Audi with the 800 V architecture and incredibly cheap and same-looking interior as other Audis is the Q6 e-tron. This mid-size SUV packs a 100 kWh NCM battery, giving up to 656 km WLTP range. Since it shares tech with the A6 e-tron, fast DC charging tops out at 270 kW.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 100 kWh NCM |
| WLTP range / Real-world range | 656 km (408 mi) / 510 km (317 mi) |
| Rated efficiency / Real-world efficiency | 161 Wh/km / 186 Wh/km |
| Max DC charging | 270 kW |
| Drivetrain | RWD or AWD |
| Platform voltage | 800 V |
Lucid Air
Lucid takes things even further with a 900‑volt battery setup. That means crazy-fast charging: up to 400 km in just 15 minutes, according to the manufacturer, and top-notch efficiency. The Air is also one of the longest-range EVs in Europe right now, hitting up to 960 km WLTP.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 117 kWh |
| WLTP range / Real-world range | 960 km (597 mi) / 720 km (447 mi) |
| Rated efficiency / Real-world efficiency | 135 Wh/km / 163 Wh/km |
| Max DC charging | 300 kW |
| Drivetrain | RWD or AWD |
| Platform voltage | 900 V |
Zeekr 7X
Now we’re talking: this is the car I’d love to own one day. Sleek, comfy, packed with features, and priced competitively. The Zeekr 7X comes with two battery options, and the bigger 100 kWh pack offers up to 615 km WLTP range while supporting a whopping 485 kW DC charge.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 100 kWh NCM |
| WLTP range / Real-world range | 615 km (382 mi) / 490 km (305 mi) |
| Rated efficiency / Real-world efficiency | 177 Wh/km / 192 Wh/km |
| Max DC charging | 485 kW |
| Drivetrain | RWD or AWD |
| Platform voltage | 800 V |
Lotus Eletre
The Lotus Eletre is an SUV with a 112 kWh battery, giving the Eletre a WLTP range of up to 600 km (373 miles). Plug it into a high-power DC fast charger, and it can gulp down 350 kW, adding around 400 km (250 miles) of range in just 20 minutes.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 112 kWh NCM |
| WLTP range / Real-world range | 600 km (373 miles) / 495 km (308 mi) |
| Rated efficiency / Real-world efficiency | 214 Wh/km / 220 Wh/km |
| Max DC charging | 350 kW |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Platform voltage | 800 V |
Mercedes-Benz CLA
The Mercedes CLA Electric is Mercedes’ first mainstream 800‑volt EV. Its nominal 90 kWh battery provides a WLTP range of 792 km, while real-world range is typically around 585 km, depending on driving conditions and variant.
Fun quirk: early units can’t handle legacy 400‑volt DC chargers without a voltage booster, so don’t expect full speed on older stations. Guess someone was in a hurry to get this to market, huh? On proper 800‑volt chargers, the CLA rips at up to 353 kW.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 90 kWh NCM |
| WLTP range / Real-world range | 792 km (484 mi) / 585 km (363 mi) |
| Rated efficiency / Real-world efficiency | 122 Wh/km / 145 Wh/km |
| Max DC charging | 353 kW |
| Drivetrain | RWD or AWD |
| Platform voltage | 800 V |
Conclusion
Notice there aren’t many Chinese EVs in the article? There’s a bunch of reasons for that, which I’ll cover in another post. But it looks like European brands are catching up, and the tide is turning.
The shift from 400‑volt to 800‑volt EVs is picking up speed, and the models already on sale in Europe show where the industry’s heading. Faster charging, better efficiency, and improved long-range performance make 800‑volt cars a solid pick if you plan to keep your EV for a few years. Whether you grab one of the options available now or wait for the next wave coming next year and beyond, the future of high-voltage EVs in Europe is looking bright.
FAQ
What is the advantage of 800‑volt EVs compared to 400‑volt EVs?
800‑volt systems allow much faster DC charging, reduce heat buildup in the battery, and improve overall efficiency. This is especially noticeable on long trips or when using high-power charging networks.
Are 800‑volt chargers widely available in Europe?
Yes, major fast-charging networks like Ionity, Fastned, and some manufacturer-specific networks support 800‑volt charging. Availability is increasing, especially along highways and main routes, but some remote locations may still only have 400‑volt chargers.
Do all 800‑volt EVs charge at the same speed?
No. Maximum DC charging depends on battery size, chemistry, and the vehicle’s onboard electronics. For example, the Porsche Cayenne Electric supports up to 390 kW, while the Kia EV9 peaks at 209 kW. Always check the specific model specs for accurate charging performance.
Which 800‑volt EVs are best for long-distance travel in Europe?
Models with large battery capacities and high max DC charging rates are ideal. Examples include the Porsche Taycan, Cayenne Electric, Mercedes CLA Electric, and Audi A6 e-tron. SUVs like the Kia EV9, Zeekr 7X, and Lotus Eletre also offer good range with rapid charging.
Should I buy an 800‑volt EV now or wait?
If you need an EV today, several models are already available and proven. Waiting could give you access to more models and possibly higher ranges or improved charging tech, but the current 800‑volt EVs already offer excellent range, performance, and charging convenience.
Does using a 400‑volt charger damage 800‑volt EVs?
No. 800‑volt EVs are fully compatible with 400‑volt chargers, though charging will be slower since the voltage is lower. Some early Mercedes CLA Electric units may experience reduced speed without a voltage booster on certain older chargers.
Are 800‑volt EVs more expensive to insure or maintain?
Insurance and maintenance costs are generally similar to other premium EVs in the same segment. The higher-voltage system doesn’t inherently make them more expensive, though battery replacement or repair can be costly if needed.
Featured Image Credit: Porsche
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