The fast charger for electric vehicle (EV) is a complex system that incorporates numerous interconnected subsystems. The interactions among these subsystems require a holistic understanding of the system architecture, control, power electronics, and their overall interaction with the electrical grid system. This review paper presents important aspects of a PV-grid integrated dc fast charger—with a special focus on the charging system components, architecture, operational modes, and control. These include the interaction between the PV power source, grid electricity, energy storage unit (ESU) and power electronics for the chargers. A considerable amount of discussion is also dedicated to battery management systems (BMS) and their mutual interactions in the control processes. For the power electronics, the paper evaluates soft switching non-isolated dc-to-dc power converter topologies that can be possibly used as future EV chargers. In addition to these, a brief discussion on the impact of the PV-grid charging on the ac grid and distribution system and their remedial measures are presented. Furthermore, the challenges in regard to the vehicle to grid (V2G) concept are also described. It is envisaged that the information provided in this paper would be useful as a one-stop document for engineers, researchers and others who require information related to the dc fast charging of EV that incorporates a renewable energy source.