SAE EV Charging Standard Released

[Matt Kenigson, VP]

News Analysis
SAE to the Rescue with EV Charging Standard
Jan 18, 2010

Imagine the havoc if EVS, hybrids and charging stations had different
types of charging connectors. It wouldn't be pretty, especially as
more and more manufacturers are moving toward hybrids and all-electric
vehicles and prototype charging stations are being tested and
deployed.

So good news that SAE International has released a standard that
outlines requirements for a standard charging connector for EVs, plug-
in hybrids and charging systems. Basically, the standard would allow
anyone driving a car with a plug to charge up anywhere.

The standard, SAE Electric Vehicle Conductive Charge Coupler, outlines
the configuration, electrical and performance requirements for the
coupler, which involves a connector and a vehicle receptacle. The
obvious benefits are reduced cost and increased convenience for EV and
hybrid drivers.

"By standardizing, you're reducing costs and allowing everyone to use
the same connector. All of the charging equipment you would pull up to
in public would have identical connectors, so any vehicle could use
one. It will be a consistent, reliable interface," said Gery Kissel,
chair of SAE's Hybrid Task Force.

The Hybrid Task Force developed the standard with original equipment
manufacturers and suppliers, charging system manufacturers, national
laboratories, utility companies, universities and standards groups
from North America, Europe and Asia. It makes sense that with that
kind of participation, the standard is likely to be widely supported
and adopted.

Also, during development of the standard, a production coupler passed
safety and durability testing by Underwriters Laboratories.

SAE is a global organization of engineers and technical experts
working toward voluntary consensus standards development and is one of
the top standards groups identified in NIST's Framework for Roadmap
for Smart Grid Interoperability Standards.

[Sean Gates]

That's great news.  I had wondered when things would be standardized for the plugs.  Also, it means that will probably be a race to develop charging stations and people have a shot now.  There could be charging stations side-by-side petrol stations!  That would be cool.  Won't ever happen, though. lol

[Will Beckett]

There is a station here in Santa Cruz that has gasoline, biodiesel and electric charging stations in one location.

 

- Will

Aptos, CA  95003

(831) 688-8669

wi...@becketts.ws

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