SAE Approves New EV Charger Standard
The SAE unveiled their latest standard for quick-charging electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids that could cut charging times to as short as 20 minutes.
The new standard, called “ Combo” combines Level 2 charging (using 220 volts, with a charge time of 3 hours) and Level 3 charging, which should support 480 volts or higher (known as “fast charging”). The ultimate goal for Level 3 charging is that it will take 10 minutes.
The big issue is the rival CHAdeMO standard, supported by Japanese auto makers like Nissan and Mitsubishi.The physical connectors are different shapes, and the “protocols” used to control the charging appliances are not compatible either, so a plug adapter will not allow motorists to use both systems. Think of the two standards as VHS and Betamax.
While CHAdeMo is in use already on cars like the Mitsubishi i and Nissan Leaf, Combo has the backing of the American and European OEMs. Either way, the consumer has the most exposure to the downside on this one.
More by Derek Kreindler
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Well- Toyota is the big dog in this market. Which standard is Toyota going with?
"Level 2 charging (using 220 volts, with a charge time of 3 hours)" Watts = Volts X Amps. The standard household oven line is fused at 30 Amps. In 3 hours, it can delver 19.8 KWh. Most BEVs claim 3 to 5 mi per KWh. So, this charge would be for 60 to 100 mi. YMMV. "The ultimate goal for Level 3 charging is that it will take 10 minutes." So you will need to increase Amperage or Voltage by a combined factor of 18. The thickest cable at the Lowes is for 660 Volts, so you would need 1800 Amp service. Will you need to wear safety equipment while handling stuff like that?
Whoever wins the standars battle, will manufactures offer conversion kits to the winner? Or do you throw the non-standard car away like I did my Betamax in the 80s?
Dare you to lick it.