Overview
IEC PAS 61980-4:2025 sets the international specification for high-power wireless power transfer (H-WPT) systems for electric vehicles (EVs) using magnetic field (MF-WPT) technologies. Developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), this standard applies to off-board supply equipment transferring electric energy to the rechargeable energy storage system (RESS) or other on-board electrical systems of stationary road vehicles. The guidelines cover systems operating at standard supply voltage ratings, based on IEC 60038, up to 1,000 V AC and 1,500 V DC.
IEC PAS 61980-4:2025 is a key document supporting interoperability, safety, efficiency, and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) for the growing industry of EV wireless charging infrastructure. It drives harmonization for manufacturers, infrastructure providers, and regulatory bodies seeking reliable, efficient, and safe high-power EV wireless charging.
Key Topics
This standard covers:
- System Characteristics and Operating Conditions: Defines requirements for the supply device architecture and interface with EVs, focusing on safe and effective operation at high power levels.
- Power Transfer Requirements: Specifies frequency ranges, power classes, input and output voltage levels, and dynamic performance expectations for both compatibility classes A (interoperable) and B (non-interoperable).
- Safety Requirements: Sets out minimum benchmarks for electrical safety, including protection against electric shock, shutdown procedures, and fault monitoring.
- Communication Protocols: Details basic communication needs to support safety (e.g., emergency shutdown signaling) and process control between the off-board and on-board systems.
- Positioning and Alignment: Establishes requirements for proper spatial alignment of primary and secondary devices to ensure efficient power transfer and user safety.
- EMC Requirements: Provides guidance to ensure electromagnetic emissions are controlled, minimizing interference with other electronic systems.
Exclusions:
IEC PAS 61980-4:2025 does not address maintenance-related safety aspects or systems for trolley buses, rail, or primarily off-road vehicles.
Applications
The practical value of IEC PAS 61980-4:2025 is significant for a range of stakeholders:
- EV Manufacturers: Ensure vehicles are compatible with standardized high-power wireless charging infrastructures, promoting seamless user experience and interoperability.
- Charging Equipment Providers: Develop off-board MF-WPT supply devices that meet safety, efficiency, and EMC standards, allowing for certification and streamlined regulatory approval.
- City Planners and Infrastructure Developers: Facilitate the deployment of safe, interoperable high-power wireless charging solutions in public and private parking facilities.
- Fleet Operators: Enable fast, contactless charging for commercial EV fleets, improving logistics and minimizing vehicle downtime.
- Regulatory Bodies: Reference uniform guidelines to evaluate and monitor the safety and electromagnetic impact of installed wireless charging stations.
Related Standards
IEC PAS 61980-4:2025 is part of the IEC 61980 series, which offers a comprehensive framework for electric vehicle wireless power transfer systems. Related and referenced standards include:
- IEC 61980-1: General requirements for EV wireless power transfer systems.
- IEC 61980-2: Communication and system activity requirements for magnetic field WPT.
- IEC 61980-3: Specific off-board system requirements for MF-WPT.
- IEC 60038: Standard voltages for the supply network.
- ITU-R SM.2110-1: Frequency guidance for non-beam wireless power transfer operation.
For a holistic approach to EV wireless charging, stakeholders should familiarize themselves with the entire IEC 61980 series and associated documents.
Keywords: IEC PAS 61980-4:2025, high-power wireless power transfer, H-WPT, electric vehicle, EV charging, MF-WPT, wireless charging standards, interoperability, electromagnetic compatibility, EV safety, IEC 61980 series