Overview
IEC 61851-24:2014 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that specifies the digital communication protocols between a direct current (d.c.) electric vehicle (EV) charging station and an electric vehicle for effective control of d.c. charging. The standard applies to conductive charging systems operating with an input voltage up to 1,000 V a.c. or 1,500 V d.c., focusing on charging mode 4 as defined in IEC 61851-23.
This standard supports the rapid expansion and interoperability of electric vehicle charging infrastructure by defining consistent communication protocols, facilitating safe and efficient charging control. It complements IEC 61851-23, which describes physical and electrical requirements of d.c. EV charging stations.
Key Topics
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Digital Communication Architecture
Defines the framework and methods for digitally encoded information exchange between the EV and the d.c. charging station, ensuring accurate and secure control of the charging process.
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Charging Control Process
Details the step-by-step control methodology for initiating, managing, and terminating d.c. charging between the vehicle and charging station.
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Exchanged Information
Describes the essential parameters conveyed during communication, including charge status, voltage and current levels, control signals, and error messages. This ensures real-time coordination and safety.
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System-Specific Communication Protocols
Annexes A, B, and C provide detailed communication specifications for different types of d.c. EV charging systems (A, B, and C as per IEC 61851-23), including their data link and physical layer characteristics.
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Compatibility and Normative References
The standard references and aligns with other key standards such as IEC 61851-1 (general EV charging requirements), ISO/IEC 15118 series (vehicle-to-grid communication interfaces), and ISO 11898 for Controller Area Network (CAN) protocols used as communication layers.
Applications
IEC 61851-24:2014 is vital for:
- Manufacturers of electric vehicles and d.c. charging stations who require a unified communication protocol to enable interoperability across different brands and countries.
- Charging infrastructure developers designing and deploying d.c. fast-charging stations to provide efficient and safe charging experiences.
- Automotive and energy industries working on extending EV range and reducing charging time through reliable and standardized communication.
- Policy makers and regulatory bodies setting frameworks for EV charging infrastructure and ensuring compliance with international standards.
- Researchers and technology developers advancing vehicle-to-grid interaction and smart charging strategies.
By standardizing digital communication, this IEC standard helps accelerate global adoption of electric vehicles, supports energy security, and contributes to CO2 emission reduction efforts.
Related Standards
- IEC 61851-1:2010 – General requirements for electric vehicle conductive charging systems.
- IEC 61851-23:2014 – Direct current EV charging stations physical and electrical characteristics.
- ISO/IEC 15118 series – Vehicle-to-grid communication interface, covering general use, technical protocols, and physical layer requirements.
- ISO 11898 series – CAN bus specifications underpinning communication protocol layers used in some d.c. EV charging systems.
These related standards form the comprehensive framework for EV conductive charging infrastructure, supporting everything from physical connection and safety to digital communication and interoperability.
Keywords: IEC 61851-24, electric vehicle charging standard, d.c. EV charging communication, conductive charging system, electric vehicle charging protocol, EV charging interoperability, mode 4 charging, IEC electric vehicle standards, digital communication EV charger, EV charging control