Understanding EV Charging Levels
There are three EV charging levels: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. The higher the charger’s level, the greater its power output and the quicker the vehicle will charge.
Introduction to Charging Protocols
Meanwhile, charging protocols for EVs are a convention of rules and guiding principles for data exchange among different units in the entire EV domain. The protocols are needed to ensure compatibility among charging services and encourage the increasing acceptance of EVs. Standardization also makes it possible to adjust costs and enhance the growth potential of EVs.
Prominent EV Charging Protocols
- Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP)
- Open Clearing House Protocol (OCHP)
- Open Inter-Charge Protocol (OICP)
- Open Smart Charging Protocol (OSCP)
- eMobility Interoperation Protocol (eMIP)
- ISO 15118
- Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI)
- Open Automated Demand Response (OpenADR)
Introduction to EV Charging Protocols
EV protocols also enable an EV to communicate with a charger. The various EV charging protocols are as follows.
EV Charging Protocol Comparison
| Protocol | Description | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|
| OCPP | Enables EV charging stations to communicate with a central system | Charging network management |
| ISO 15118 | Standard for two-way digital communications between EVs and chargers | Vehicle-to-grid communication |
| OCPI | Shares information about charge points for EV roaming | EV roaming |
| OCHP | Facilitates communication between clearing houses and management systems | e-Roaming and interoperability |
OCPP
The OCPP application protocol enables EV charging stations to communicate with a central management system. It is a global, open-source, vendor-agnostic standard that is available free of cost. It was developed by the Open Charge Alliance (OCA) for EV charges and is considered the existing standard for charging architecture compatibility between charger makers, providers of software and systems, research organizations, and charging network operators.
It reduces the risk of investments in networked infrastructure, allows operators of EV charging points to be independent of Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE), and allows seamless access for EV drivers.
The newest version is OCPP 2.0.1, which possesses many new and enhanced features for security, transaction handling, device management, smart charging functionalities, OCPP’s scalability, and backing for display and messaging.
ISO 15118
ISO 15118 is an international standard for two-way digital communications between EVs and their charging stations. It states a V2G communication interface for EV charging and discharging.
ISO 15118 is a vital facilitator of the Plug & Charge capability, which allows EV drivers to insert the charge plug into an EV, charge it, and drive off when prepared.
EV Charging Roaming Protocols
Open Charge Point Interface
The OCPI was conceived to share information concerning charge points between charge point operators (CPOs) and e-mobility service providers to facilitate flexible and mechanical EV roaming.
Open Clearing House Protocol
The OCHP is an open-source protocol that allows easy and homogenous communication between a clearing house system and a charging management system.
OCHP allows for smooth EV charging across charging station networks (e-Roaming). Using OCHP, mobility service providers can connect to EV charging providers to allow access to their networks.
Open Intercharge Protocol
Developed by Hubject, it is a communication standard installed between charge point operator (CPO) systems and e-mobility service providers (EMSP) via the Hubject platform.
eMobility Interoperation Protocol
eMIP, provided by GIREVE, facilitates roaming of charging services, as it provides a data clearinghouse API, a charge authorization, and access to a comprehensive charging point database.
Energy Management Protocols
Open Automated Demand Response
It is an open, safe foundation for compatible information exchange to enable automated demand response.
Open Smart Charging Protocol 1.0
OSCP is an open protocol for exchanging information between a site owner’s energy management system and a charge point management system.
Overview of Common Charging Standards
Charging Standards Comparison
| Charging Standard | Connector Type | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|
| CHAdeMO | DC Fast Charging | Japan and Asia |
| Combined Charging System (CCS) | AC/DC Combo | Widely used in North America and Europe |
| Tesla Supercharger | Proprietary | Tesla Network |
AC vs. DC Charging: What’s the Difference?
AC charging is typically slower, as the power is converted to DC within the vehicle, while DC charging is faster, as the power is already converted outside the car.
Type 1 and Type 2 Chargers
Type 1 and Type 2 chargers offer different power outputs, often used in regions where specific standards apply.
CHAdeMO Charging Protocol
CHAdeMO is primarily used in Japan and Asia and supports DC fast charging for EVs.
Combined Charging System (CCS)
CCS is a widely adopted protocol that supports both AC and DC charging. It is commonly used across North America and Europe.
Tesla Supercharger Network
Tesla’s proprietary network for ultra-fast DC charging is primarily used for Tesla vehicles, providing fast and efficient charging options.
Compatibility Between Chargers and Vehicles
Different EVs may require specific charger types based on their compatibility with protocols and connectors. Make sure to check vehicle requirements before choosing a charger.