Can portable power stations jump-charge a flat EV?
QUESTION
Hi John,
Thanks for the great info on the Bluetti EB150.
Can it charge an EV or at least be used in one if the EV ran out of power on the road?
My knowledge on electrics is dismal.
Cheers,
Russ
AutoExpert DISCOUNT ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE PACKAGE
If you’re sick of paying through the neck for roadside assistance I’ve teamed up with 24/7 to offer AutoExpert readers nationwide roadside assistance from just $69 annually.
Plus there’s NO JOINING FEE. Full details >>
AutoExpert DISCOUNT OLIGHT TORCHES
These flashlights are awesome. I carry the Olight Warrior Mini 2 every day - it’s tiny, robust, and super useful in the field or in the workshop. Olight is a terrific supporter of AutoExpert.
Use the code AEJC for a 12% discount >>
ANSWER
Hi Russ,
In theory you could plug in the Bluetti EB55 unit to the charger that comes with the EV, and run the Bluetti until it goes flat.
But (using the Kona EV as an example, ballpark) the battery in many EVs is about 64 kilowatt-hours (of energy). The EB55 in today’s report is only about half a kilowatt-hour, so only about 1/128th of a recharge, or enough for only 2-3km of additional driving.
But the charger that comes with the EV might attempt to draw 2.4kW from the EB55, and the Bluetti is only rated to 700W, so it might shut itself down (overload protection).
Even the Bluetti AC200P, which has 2kW-hr of energy - enough for about 12-15km of driving, ballpark - is only rated to 2000W, so it might shut itself down, too.
Running out of power in an EV means getting towed, in practice.
JC
More reports
Pajero Sport is an excellent value off-roader if you need a 4WD with a reliable diesel engine, good fuel economy and enough towing power. This tough 7-seater is a wise choice for adventurous families.