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SAE to the Rescue with EV Charging Standard By SGN Staff Jan 18, 2010 - 2:32:44 PM
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.
From the source ...
· SAE
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