Electric Vehicle Charging Adapter Safety and OEM Qualified Device Designation
J3400/1
This document covers the general physical, electrical, functional, and performance requirements for adapters connected to standards conforming conductive power transfer via handheld conductive coupler capable of transferring either DC or single-phase power using two current-carrying contacts. The focus is on defining the process to evaluate the suitability of adapters to SAE J3400 vehicle inlets.
Rationale: There is concern over safety and reliability of EV charging adapters on the market today that are not all of the same power delivery capability and construction quality. Complementing the UL2252 testing criteria, more detail is needed to define adapter requirements, specifically on latch/lock and temperature limiting safety features. Vehicle manufacturers have liability concerns and desire a documented process for an OEM qualified charging adapter device. Standardization will pave the way for safer charging if adapters are used, and exclude operations where they should not be used.
