The transition to electric mobility is accelerating, and as a business owner, fleet operator, or site host, installing a 120kW Dual-Port DC Fast Charger is a strategic investment. This charger type represents the sweet spot for public charging: powerful enough to deliver a significant charge in 15-30 minutes, yet more affordable and grid-friendly than ultra-rapid 350kW+ units.

However, not all 120kW chargers are created equal. Making the right choice is crucial for reliability, user satisfaction, and your return on investment. This guide will walk you through the key selection criteria.

1. Power Dispensing: The Critical Difference

This is the most important technical aspect of a dual-port charger. You must understand how the 120kW of power is allocated between the two guns.

• Simultaneous Charging (Load Balancing): This is the standard and most practical model. The unit can deliver a total of 120kW, which is dynamically split between the two vehicles.Scenario 1: One vehicle charging: It can draw the full 120kW.Scenario 2: Two vehicles charging: The power is split (e.g., 60kW each). If one vehicle finishes, the other can ramp up to the full 120kW.Why it matters: This design is cost-effective, reduces strain on the local electrical infrastructure, and efficiently serves two customers without needing a massive, expensive power cabinet.
• Full Power per Port (Less Common): Some advanced models may offer independent circuits, allowing each port to deliver up to 120kW simultaneously (requiring a 240kW+ internal power module). For a 120kW-rated unit, this is rare and you should confirm the specifications carefully. Assume "simultaneous charging with load balancing" is the standard.

Action Point: Confirm the charger's power sharing logic in the datasheet. A dynamic load balancing system is highly recommended for optimal utilization.

2. Connector Types and Cables

A 120kW charger must be versatile to accommodate the vast majority of EVs on the market.

• CCS1 (Combined Charging System) and CCS2: These are the dominant standards. CCS1 is used in North America, while CCS2 is the standard in Europe, Australia, and many other regions. A modern 120kW dual-port charger should have at least one CCS connector per gun.
• CHAdeMO: This is a legacy standard, still used by the Nissan Leaf and a few others. It is being phased out in favor of CCS. Many manufacturers now offer one CCS and one CHAdeMO connector on a single unit, or two CCS connectors.
• Cable Length and Management: Cables must be long enough (typically 4-5 meters) to reach a vehicle's charging port comfortably. Liquid-cooled cables are a premium feature that allows for a thinner, lighter, and more flexible cable, which is easier for users to handle and enables future-proofing for higher currents.

Recommendation: For future-proofing, a dual CCS+CCS configuration is ideal in most markets. If you anticipate serving older Nissan Leafs, a CCS+CHAdeMO configuration is a safe bet.

3. The Core Hardware: Reliability is Key

The internal components determine the charger's lifespan and uptime.

• Power Modules: This is the heart of the charger. Look for reputable brands (e.g., Infineon, Texas Instruments) and a modular design. Modularity allows for easy service and replacement, minimizing downtime if a module fails.
• Certifications and Protection: The unit must have essential safety certifications like UL (North America), CE (Europe), or equivalent local standards. It should feature comprehensive protection against overcurrent, overvoltage, overheating, and short circuits.
• Display and User Interface (HMI): A bright, intuitive touchscreen display (7-15 inches is common) is essential for guiding users through the charging process, showing status, and providing error messages.

4. The Backend Software: The "Brain" of the Operation

A charger is a connected IoT device. The software and backend system are as important as the hardware.

• Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP): Ensure the charger is OCPP-compliant (preferably version 1.6J or newer). This is non-negotiable. OCPP is an open standard that allows you to connect your charger to any compatible Charging Station Management System (CSMS), giving you freedom of choice and avoiding vendor lock-in.
• Charging Station Management System (CSMS): The CSMS is the cloud-based platform where you manage your chargers. Key features to look for include:Remote monitoring and diagnosticsUser management and access control (RFID, App)Payment system integrationDynamic pricing settingDetailed reporting and energy usage analytics
• Firmware Over-The-Air (FOTA): The ability to update the charger's software remotely is crucial for adding new features, fixing bugs, and maintaining security without a technician on site.

5. Service, Warranty, and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)

The initial purchase price is just one part of the equation.

• Warranty: Look for a robust warranty, typically 3-5 years for parts and labor. A longer warranty often indicates the manufacturer's confidence in their product.
• Service and Support Network: Does the manufacturer or their partner have a reliable, localized service network? What is their typical response time for repairs? High uptime is critical for revenue and user satisfaction.
• Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): Calculate costs beyond the unit price, including:Installation and grid connection feesOngoing network/cellular data subscription fees for the CSMSMaintenance and potential repair costs post-warrantyElectricity costs and demand charges from your utility