European Project Targets 1000V Technology to Cut EV Charging Times
Amsterdam, Thursday, 12 February 2026.
The ODYSSEV project launched in early 2026 represents a breakthrough in electric vehicle technology, advancing high-voltage systems beyond 1000V to dramatically reduce charging times. Led by Dortmund University and funded by the EU’s Horizon Europe program, this 42-month initiative aims to make EVs more practical for everyday use through lighter vehicles and higher efficiency.
ODYSSEV Project Specifications and Timeline
The ODYSSEV project, standing for “Optimised Dynamics of High-Voltage Powertrains: Developing Sustainable Systems for Electric Vehicles,” was launched in early 2026 in Zaragoza, Spain [1]. This ambitious initiative is planned to run for 42 months and will culminate in comprehensive testing at the LaSiSe test track in Selm [1]. The project encompasses the entire development chain from semiconductors and power modules to on-board chargers and traction inverters, alongside developing an electric motor specifically designed for high-voltage architecture and a reconfigurable battery pack [1]. Prof. Dr. Markus Thoben from Dortmund University explains the project’s significance: “With ODYSSEV, we are taking the next logical step in electromobility…High-voltage technologies beyond 800 volts not only enable dramatically shorter charging times, but also lighter vehicles thanks to thinner cables and higher overall efficiency through reduced energy losses” [1].
Advanced Simulation and Development Approach
The project employs sophisticated digital methods to accelerate development processes and optimize complex component interactions. Seyed Saeed Mirsafian, a research associate on the project, details their methodology: “Our task is to orchestrate the complex interplay of all components and accelerate the development processes using digital methods…We contribute our expertise in modeling and simulation to optimize on the computer what will later have to work on the road. This saves time and costs and makes it possible to test various scenarios before the first prototype is built” [1]. This approach represents a strategic shift toward computational optimization that could significantly reduce development timelines and costs while ensuring optimal performance before physical prototyping begins.
Commercial Applications Already Emerging
While the ODYSSEV project develops future standards, commercial applications of 1000V technology are already appearing in the market. Finnish company Kempower, which designs and manufactures DC fast charging solutions with product development and production based in Finland [2], launched an adaptive voltage charging solution for EV batteries up to 1000V in Q3 2022 [2]. CEO Tomi Ristimäki emphasized the forward-looking nature of this technology: “It works with batteries of up to 1000V – which aren’t even on the market yet – yet also benefits drivers of EVs with batteries below 500V. We’re alleviating queue anxiety for all EV drivers – everybody wins” [2]. The solution was first presented at EVS35 in June 2022 in Oslo and became standard on all Kempower deliveries from Q3 2022 [2].
Ultra-High Power Charging Systems in Development
The race toward ultra-fast charging is intensifying, with Chinese manufacturer BYD revealing next-generation “Flash Chargers” capable of delivering up to 1200 kW of charging power per gun at 1000V DC [4]. Images surfaced on Chinese social media platform Xiaohongshu in early February 2026, showing labels indicating potential outputs of 1500 kW and 2100 kW for dual-gun configurations [4]. This represents a significant advancement from BYD’s current flash chargers introduced in March 2025, which offer 1360 kW per pile accessible via both charge guns used simultaneously [4]. The new systems feature power and buffer battery cabinets designed to reduce grid load and mitigate the impact of load limits, alongside a T-shaped design that allows cables to extend to vehicles on either side [4]. BYD’s premium brands including Yang Wang, Fang Cheng Bao, and Denza are expected to roll out 1000V architecture across most of their ranges in 2026 [4], with vehicles like the Tang L and Han L already capable of adding 400 kilometers of range in just 5 minutes with 10C charging [4].