Electrical Vehicle Charging Modes Explained

What Do EV Charging Modes Do?

An electrical vehicle offers a variety of charging modes. Understanding what each charging mode performs is essential if you want to charge your vehicle effectively and accordingly to your route. There is a cloak of mystery to uncover regarding technicalities of electric vehicles, especially for new users. The standard is IEC 61851-1, which collectively defines the 4 charging modes. To help you comprehend and benefit the most from your electric car and its advantages, we have explained each charging mode in this post! 

Mode 1

The electrical vehicle is connected to standard current sockets directly in mode 1 without the use of any additional safety features. When charging electric scooters and motorcycles, mode 1 is frequently used. This charging option is restricted in Switzerland, Denmark, Norway, France, and Germany, and is outlawed in some parts of Italy. Even in Israel, the United States, and England, it is prohibited.The rated values for current and voltage shall not exceed 16 A and 250 V in single-phase while 16 A and 480 V in three-phase.

Mode 2

In contrast to mode 1, mode 2 necessitates the presence of a particular safety system at the point of electrical network connection and the vehicle charging. The control box is the device that is mounted on the charging cord. Usually seen on portable electric car chargers. You can utilise Mode 2 with both domestic and industrial outlets. In the US, Canada, Switzerland, Denmark, France, and Norway, there are limitations on its use. Rated values for current and voltage shall not surpass 32 A and 250 V in single-phase while 32 A and 480 V in three-phase.

Mode 3

Mode 3 is the mode of wallboxes, commercial charging points and all automatic charging systems in alternating current.  In order to operate the vehicle in this mode, a power supply system that is always linked to the electric grid must be used to recharge the car. The designated charging point has an integrated Control Box. Even though the law does not specify a maximum, charging stations in mode 3 often permit charging up to 32 A and 250 V in single-phase and up to 32 A and 480 V in three-phase.

Mode 4

The only charging method that gives the electric vehicle a direct current is Mode 4. In order to use this charging mode, you must connect your charging cord to an external current converter. Due to the need of a converter, which converts AC electricity into DC, charging stations are typically significantly larger than simpler ones.

 

Elite Vehicle Charging

Elite EV Charge provides both temporary and permanent Electrical Vehicle mobile chargers for vehicles across the UK. Focusing on supplying portable EV chargers for events and off-grid locations. Ensuring our drives feel connected and do not experience range anxiety. If you want to keep up to date about everything regarding EV charging, check out our Twitter!

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