As Electric Vehicles (EV) and the infrastructure around going electric progresses, there comes a demand for high quality charging components to ensure a smooth switch. The new date to phase out diesel and petrol engines is 2030, which puts a lot of pressure on ensuring the infrastructure to charge EV’s is ready. Safe, reliable and efficient cables, and other charging point consumables, are an integral part of ensuring that the move to EV’s is a success.
Are all EV charging cables the same?
No. Much like charging your phone, you may have noticed that the type of cable you use has an impact on how quickly your battery charges. The same can be said for the cables used when charging your vehicle.
Do cables meet a certain standard?
Yes. There are currently 2 standards that exist in relation to EV charging cables. Europe has EN 50620 which specifies design, dimension and test requirements for halogen free cables. IEC 62893, which is a broader, international standard, covers construction, dimensions and test requirements of the cables. Third party bodies such as BASEC can also carry out vigorous testing to check a charging cables performance and approve it is in line with the safety and quality standards.
What is smart charging?
Smart charging units, or intelligent charging, allows data to be shared between a vehicle and charging unit. By allowing them to communicate to each other gives the charging unit owner the ability to manage energy input into the EV. Visibility of this helps to optimise consumption and stops the grid from being overloaded during peak times.
Why should I use approved charging cables?
Using safe, efficient, reliable cables that have been approved by a third party ensure that an installed charging unit is powered by high quality products. Maximizing the charging ability and efficiency of that unit. Substandard cables can lead to in-efficiencies such as high levels of conductor resistance, accelerated deterioration and even impact on the EV’s system ability to perform efficiency. Giving people greater visibility and control over the transfer of power means maximising energy efficiency, minimising charging costs and avoiding peak charging times. With this smart monitoring and an approved standard of charging cables it is possible to safeguard the implementation of the charging infrastructure.