What are CHAdeMO EV Charging Connectors?
Meet the Connector: CHAdeMO Connectors
The CHAdeMO (CHArge de MOve) EV charging connector, developed by the CHAdeMO Association, is a fast-charging standard interface for electric vehicles. It is primarily used by Japanese automakers, including Nissan, Mitsubishi, KIA, and French companies Peugeot and Citröen. The connector was introduced in 2010 by a consortium of companies, including Nissan, Mitsubishi, and TEPCO.
The CHAdeMO is designed to provide high-power DC fast charging to electric vehicles, making it ideal for longer journeys and reducing charging time. One of the notable technical aspects of the CHAdeMO connector is its high-power delivery capability; it supports charging rates of 62.5 kW to 400 kW.
JAE’s KW03 Series CHAdeMO connector
The CHAdeMO connector features a unique design that combines both power and communication lines in a single connector. This integration allows for real-time communication between the vehicle and the charging station, enabling features such as charging control, monitoring, and safety measures. The communication protocol used by the CHAdeMO connector enables bidirectional power flow, meaning it supports vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capabilities. This allows electric vehicles to not only draw power from the grid but also supply power back to it, enhancing grid stability and enabling energy storage solutions.
Safety is a paramount concern in EV charging, and the CHAdeMO connector addresses this through its various built-in safety mechanisms. It incorporates features such as electrical isolation, voltage detection, and overcurrent protection to ensure safe charging operations. The connector also undergoes rigorous testing and certification processes to meet international safety standards, giving users confidence in its reliability and safety.
In terms of physical design, the CHAdeMO connector consists of a main connector plug and a vehicle inlet. The main connector plug comprises the power and communication lines, while the vehicle inlet provides the interface for connecting the charger to the electric vehicle. The connector is designed to be durable and weatherproof, capable of withstanding various environmental conditions.
Drivers of vehicles that use the CHAdeMO outlet may have some difficulties finding compatible charging stations. Charge America stations, for example, only include one charger per station that supports CHAdeMO. This situation is likely to become more challenging, particularly in the U.S., as charging stations move to standardize the Tesla NACS connector.
Design Notes
- Standardization: Standardized underIEC 61851-23
- Charging rates: 5 kW to 400 kW
- Voltage: Up to 500V
- Rated current: 25A to 125A
Markets, Sectors, and Applications
Automotive, Transportation
Suppliers
JAE, Electway, Fujikura, Sumitomo, Yazaki
Related products:
- SAE J1772
- IEC 62196 Type 2
- CCS
- NACS
Learn more about EV Charging Connectors.
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