What is BS EN 13976?

BS EN 13976 is a technical standard developed by the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC). It specifies the requirements for an electric vehicle charging coupler and its associated charging communication infrastructure, including safety aspects, mechanical requirements, and electrical performance. The standard is aimed at ensuring interoperability and compatibility between different brands of electric vehicles and charging stations.

What is the IEC 62196 Type 2 connector?

The IEC 62196 Type 2 connector, also known as the Mennekes connector, is a widely used standard for electric vehicle charging in Europe. It follows the specifications defined in the BS EN 13976 standard and has become the most common type of connector for both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) charging.

The Type 2 connector provides a single-phase AC charging capability of up to 22 kW and a three-phase AC charging capability of up to 43 kW. It features seven pins that enable power transmission, signaling, and communication between the electric vehicle and the charging station. The connector is designed to ensure safe and reliable charging, with features such as mechanical keying to prevent incorrect connections and protection against accidental disconnection during charging.

Benefits and Future Developments

The adoption of BS EN 13976 and the IEC 62196 Type 2 connector bring several benefits to both electric vehicle owners and charging infrastructure providers. Firstly, the standardized connector allows for seamless interoperability among various electric vehicle models and charging stations, eliminating the need for multiple incompatible connectors.

Secondly, the Type 2 connector's higher power capacity enables faster charging, reducing the time required to recharge an electric vehicle. As electric vehicle battery technology continues to improve, future versions of the connector and associated standards may support even higher power levels, allowing for rapid charging capabilities.

Furthermore, the development of wireless charging technologies based on the BS EN 13976 standard is underway. This could eliminate the need for physical connectors, enabling convenient and efficient charging without the hassle of plugging in a cable.

Conclusion

BS EN 13976 and the IEC 62196 Type 2 connector play a vital role in promoting the widespread adoption of electric vehicles by providing a standardized and reliable charging solution. As the electric vehicle market continues to grow, these standards will continue to evolve, facilitating advancements in charging infrastructure and improving the overall charging experience for electric vehicle owners.