European Standard Three-Phase Mode 2 EV Charging Modes: Electrical Restrictions, Usage Scenarios and Cable Management Specifications

1. Brief description of ABC connection modes:

1.1 Connection Type A: The charging plug is permanently connected to the vehicle;
1.2 Connection Type B (Connection Type B): the charging plug is separated from the vehicle plug and can be moved;
1.3 Connection Type C: the charging plug is permanently connected to the grid and the plug cannot be moved.

2. Overview of charging modes (Charging Modes):

2.1 Mode 1: the most basic AC charging mode, due to the lack of control and protection mechanisms, has been banned by many countries, and is not allowed to be used domestically;
2.2 Mode 2: Suitable for portable or domestic charging equipment, with basic safety controls;
2.3 Mode 3: the mode used in typical AC charging posts, supporting higher security and communication features;
2.4 Mode 4: used for DC fast charging, usually configured in public fast charging stations.

3. Mode 2 Technical Requirements (according to IEC 61851)

For Mode 2 Electric Vehicle Power Supply Equipment (EVSE), the standard gives the following technical requirements:

3.1 Single-phase power supply: Maximum current ≤ 32A, maximum voltage ≤ 250V;
3.2 Three-phase power supply: Maximum voltage ≤ 480V;
3.3 Protective Earth Conductor (Protective Earth Conductor) must be provided to ensure safe grounding of the vehicle.

4. Regulatory requirements for Mode 2 use in different countries/regions 

4.1 U.S.A. & Canada: Only single-phase AC power supply is allowed, with a maximum voltage of 250V and a maximum current of 32A;
4.2 Switzerland: The maximum voltage is 250V and the maximum current is limited to 16A;
4.3 Italy: Mode 2 charging devices are prohibited in public areas;
4.4 France & Norway: Mode 2 devices must be equipped with a household plug and the maximum current must not exceed 8A.

These regulations reflect the different considerations of Mode 2 safety in different countries, and enterprises should pay special attention to matching local regulations when exporting their products.

5. Management and storage of cables (for connection mode C)

In connection mode C scenario, both IEC standard and Chinese national standard put forward strict requirements on the management and storage of cables:

5.1 Unused vehicle plugs should have a clear storage method (e.g. socket, hook, etc.);
5.2 Plugs should be installed at a height between 0.5 and 1.5 meters to avoid inconvenient operation;
5.3 For cables exceeding 7.5 meters, management measures (e.g. spools, hooks, etc.) need to be taken to ensure that the unused portion is neatly stowed to avoid problems such as dragging and kinking.

In developed markets such as Europe, the three-phase Mode 2 EV charging mode is in the stage of gradual standardization. Understanding the regulatory differences between countries and the key technical requirements will help companies achieve product compliance and market success when expanding their business internationally, and Nexway will continue to monitor the relevant standard updates to help customers around the world deploy EV charging equipment in an efficient and safe manner.