EV Charging Terminology

Maximum charging rate is the highest charging power a charger can deliver under its rated conditions, usually expressed in kW. It is normally assessed alongside phase availability, circuit capacity, protective devices, cable sizing and DNO/site constraints.

Megawatt Charging System (MCS) is a high-power DC charging system developed for heavy-duty electric vehicles, particularly electric trucks and other applications that need very large amounts of energy transferred during short charging stops. It uses a dedicated high-current connector and is being standardised internationally, including within the IEC 61851 series.

Mode 1 charging is basic AC charging from a standard socket without dedicated EV charging control or protection built into the supply equipment. It is normally assessed alongside charging mode, AC/DC architecture, power rating, connector type and how the charger shares or delivers power.

Mode 2 charging uses a cable with an in-cable control and protection device between a socket outlet and the EV. It is normally assessed alongside charging mode, AC/DC architecture, power rating, connector type and how the charger shares or delivers power.

Mode 3 charging uses dedicated AC EV supply equipment with control signalling between the charger and the vehicle. It is normally assessed alongside charging mode, AC/DC architecture, power rating, connector type and how the charger shares or delivers power.

Mode 4 charging uses off-board DC charging equipment to supply DC power directly to the vehicle battery. It is normally assessed alongside charging mode, AC/DC architecture, power rating, connector type and how the charger shares or delivers power.