Overview
IEC 62893-3:2017 is an international standard that specifies requirements for charging cables used for AC charging of electric vehicles (EVs) according to modes 1, 2 and 3 of IEC 61851-1. It covers cables of the IEC 0,6/1 kV family with rated voltages up to and including 450/750 V and sets a maximum conductor operating temperature of 90 °C. Ordinary-duty flexible cables rated 300/500 V are permitted only for charging mode 1.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and cable types: Defines ordinary duty (types 62893 IEC 121, 122) and heavy duty (types 62893 IEC 123, 124, 125) flexible cables for EV AC charging.
- Rated voltages: Cables rated 300/500 V (ordinary duty) and 450/750 V (heavy duty).
- Conductor sizes and construction: Power core sizes include 1.5 mm2 and 2.5 mm2 for ordinary duty; heavy duty covers 1.5 mm2 up to 35 mm2 and 3–5 core constructions; cores are class 5 flexible conductors and are twisted/assembled with non-adhering sheaths.
- Insulation and sheath materials: Insulation compounds (EVI-1, EVI-2) and halogen-free sheath compounds (EVM-1, EVM-2, EVM-3) are specified by cable type; sheath must not adhere to cores.
- Marking and dimensioning: Marking requirements refer to IEC 62893-1; dimensional and insulation thickness data are provided in Annex B tables.
- Testing and verification: Test methods and performance requirements reference IEC 62893-2, IEC 60245-2, IEC 60332-1-2, IEC 62821-1 and relevant IEC 60811 parts. Annex A lists tests for completed cables (compatibility, cold impact, crush resistance, fire performance, etc.).
- Use guidance: Clause 5 refers to IEC 62440 for safe use and includes tables for intended environmental and duty conditions.
Applications and who uses this standard
- Cable manufacturers designing and producing EV charging cables for AC charging (modes 1–3).
- EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) OEMs specifying compatible charging leads and assemblies.
- Test laboratories and conformity assessors performing required tests per Annex A and referenced documents.
- Specifiers, procurement teams and safety engineers ensuring product selection meets rated voltage, temperature and mechanical requirements.
- Regulators and certification bodies referencing IEC 62893-3:2017 for compliance with EV charging safety and performance.
Related standards
Keywords: IEC 62893-3:2017, charging cables, electric vehicles, AC charging, 450/750 V, modes 1 2 3, IEC 61851-1, EVM, EVI, cable testing.