Ultra-Fast MCS Charging Arrives for Electric Trucks and Vessels
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Cavotec has introduced a major advancement in ultra-fast charging for heavy-duty electric vehicles: the MCS Manual Dispenser. Designed for demanding sectors such as ports, mining, logistics, and large-scale construction, the dispenser delivers up to 4.5 megawatts of power through a manually operated interface. This launch comes at a key time as industries accelerate electrification to meet regulatory goals and demands for operational efficiency.
At the center of this innovation is the Megawatt Charging System, a high-voltage standard that supports fast charging for commercial and industrial electric vehicles. While automated MCS systems are in development, Cavotec’s manual dispenser makes megawatt-level charging more accessible to a broader set of operators.
Why megawatt charging is key to electrifying heavy industries
Heavy-duty vehicles and industrial equipment are among the most difficult segments to decarbonize due to their size, power demands, and extended operating cycles. Traditional charging methods, such as AC or low-voltage DC, fall short in both speed and capacity. The MCS addresses this gap with a standardized interface capable of delivering charging rates up to 3.75 megawatts, reducing vehicle downtime significantly.
Developed by CharIN, the MCS standard is supported by manufacturers including Daimler, Volvo, MAN, and Scania. The system enables electric haul trucks, buses, and marine vessels to recharge in under 45 minutes, depending on battery size and usage requirements. With high-voltage DC delivery up to 1,500 volts and current rates reaching 3,000 amps, MCS is redefining electric vehicle infrastructure.
Organizations such as the National Renewable Energy Laboratory have supported its development and consider MCS critical for electrifying freight and industrial transportation. As this ecosystem expands, the need for practical, scalable charging solutions will continue to rise.
What sets Cavotec’s MCS Manual Dispenser apart
Cavotec’s manual dispenser is the first commercially viable solution to deliver the full MCS-rated 4.5 megawatts in a non-automated configuration. This allows operators to deploy ultra-fast charging without the capital investment or complexity of robotic systems.
Key features of the dispenser include:
- Integrated cooling for cables and connectors to maintain stability during high-power transfers
- Ergonomic design with assisted cable handling and a shaped grip for ease of use
- Durable construction that resists corrosion, impact, and temperature fluctuations
- Large LED indicators for charge status visibility from long distances
- Compliance with relevant high-voltage safety standards
“With the launch of our MCS Manual Dispenser, we are making high-power charging more accessible and versatile for operators across a wide range of industries,” said Jörn Bullert, vice president of product management charging solutions at Cavotec.
Applications across ports, mining, construction, and logistics
The MCS Manual Dispenser delivers fast, reliable charging in environments where uptime is essential. In ports, it keeps container handling equipment and terminal tractors moving with minimal delay. In mining, it enables quick recharging of battery-electric haul trucks and loaders between shifts.
The dispenser integrates with Cavotec’s broader electrification systems, including shore power, vehicle interface units, and charging rails. Together, these components form a scalable platform for industrial electric infrastructure.
Construction firms using battery-electric diggers, cranes, or cement mixers can support site operations with minimal installation. The manual design makes the system ideal for temporary or mobile deployments while maintaining compatibility with evolving MCS standards.
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