Developed in concensus with 190 global experts from the automotive, charging equipment, utilities industries and national labs, the standard is aimed at enabling long-distance electric vehicle travel and integration with a smart electricity grid, designed to reduce the risk of blackouts.

Building on the previous standard for charging, which covered AC units, the revised version integrates DC Level 1 and Level 2 charging units and defines specifications for levels, connectors and electrical interfaces. It will allow multiple charging speeds to be offered from a single connection.

Gery Kissel, engineering specialist, global battery systems, GM, and chairman of the task force responsible for the standard, explained: ‘This new standard reflects the many hours that top industry experts from around the world worked to achieve the best charging solution – a solution that helps vehicle electrification technology move forward.’

Andrew Smart, Director of Industry Relations and Business Development for SAE International, added: ‘This new technical standard is a real game-changer. It reflects the advancements in technology within PHEV and EV engineering and we are pleased to represent the collaborative efforts within industry that made it possible.’