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How can we choose the logistics for the EV charge plug and cables when import from China

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The EV charge plugs and cables features: Heavy weight and large volume.

Comparing Transport way: China Railway Express, Sea Shipping, and Airlift.

Usually, we are familiar with sea transportation and air transportation, so here we will focus on China railway express:

1- Introduction to China railway express

China railway express is an international container railway intermodal train that runs in accordance with fixed train numbers, routes and other conditions, and runs between the mainland of China and Europe and countries along the the Belt and Road. It is a member of international railway intermodal transport.

At present, three major railway transportation channels have been formed between China and Europe, namely the West, Middle, and East.

The West Passage mainly attracts import and export goods from Southwest, Northwest, Central China, North China, East China and other regions. It connects with Kazakhstan and Russian Railways at the Dzungarian Gate (Khorgos) railway port in Xinjiang via Longhai and Lanxin lines and reaches other countries in Europe via railways in Belarus, Poland and other countries.

The middle Passage mainly attracts import and export goods from Central China, North China and other regions. It is connected with Mongolian and Russian Railways at the Erenhot railway port in Inner Mongolia via the Beijing Guangzhou, Beijing Baotou and Jiji Second Lines, and passes through Belarus, Poland and other countries in Europe.

The East Passage mainly attracts import and export goods from East China, South China and Northeast China. It connects with Russian Railways at Manzhouli Railway Port in Inner Mongolia and Razdolnaya Railway Port in Heilongjiang via Beijing Shanghai, Beijing Harbin and Binzhou lines, and passes through Belarus, Poland and other countries in Europe.

 

2-Compairing the transport way

Advantages of China Railway Express:

 

  1. Short Transportation Time: China Railway Express provides a faster alternative compared to traditional sea shipping. It offers expedited delivery, especially for cargo traveling between Asia and Europe, significantly reducing transportation time and enabling quicker order fulfillment.

 

  1. Safe and Stable Transportation: China Railway Express boasts a robust infrastructure, stringent safety protocols, and reliable operations. This mode ensures the secure movement of goods, minimizing the risk of damage or loss during transit. With its well-established network and advanced tracking systems, you can have peace of mind knowing your shipments are in capable hands.

 

Advantages of Sea Shipping:

 

  1. Low Transportation Costs: Sea shipping is renowned for its cost-effectiveness, particularly for large-volume shipments. It offers competitive rates compared to other modes of transport, making it an attractive choice for businesses seeking economical solutions.

 

  1. Flexible Shipping Routes: With an extensive network of ports worldwide, sea shipping provides unmatched flexibility in terms of shipping routes. It allows you to choose the most suitable routes based on your origin, destination, and transit requirements. This flexibility enables efficient global trade and access to a wide range of markets.

 

  1. Large Transportation Volume: Sea shipping accommodates substantial cargo volume, making it ideal for businesses engaged in bulk shipments. Containerships have the capacity to transport a significant number of goods, ensuring efficient utilization of resources and reducing overall shipping costs.

 

Advantages of Airlift (Express):

 

  1. Short Transportation Time: Airlift, commonly used for express delivery, excels in transporting time-sensitive shipments. With its ability to bypass traditional transportation routes, air freight offers unparalleled speed and efficiency, enabling rapid delivery of goods to any destination worldwide.

 

  1. High Safety: Airlift services prioritize safety as a top priority. Strict security measures, advanced cargo handling procedures, and real-time monitoring systems ensure the protection and integrity of goods throughout the journey. This makes airlift a reliable option for valuable or delicate cargo.

 

  1. Low Packaging Requirements: Unlike other modes of transport, airlift imposes fewer packaging restrictions, especially for lightweight and compact shipments. With reduced packaging demands, businesses can optimize their packaging costs and streamline their logistics processes.

 

 

 3-Actual order shipping costs and timeliness record for reference

 

1 order for EV charger components Transport to Europe, and we got the quotation from logistics company:
Date: October 2022
Weight: 264KGS
Volume: 0.65CBM
Transport way Timelines(days) Charge (USD) To door or port Note
China-Euro railway express 15-25 1030 To door Need booking 5-10 days in advance.
Airlift/Express 4-9 1550 To door Airlift optional, express delivery to door
Sea shipping 30-40 350 To port Need booking 5-10 days in advance.

 

Conclusion:

 

Weight Volume Time requirement Suggested way
<100KGS <1CBM <10 Airlift/Express
>100KGS >1CBM <35 China-Euro railway express
>100KGS >1CBM <60 Sea shipping

 

When selecting a transportation mode, it is essential to consider the specific needs of your shipment, including time constraints, budget, and cargo volume.

Usually suggest using Airlift/express delivery for samples.

For bulk goods, choose China railway express or sea shipping according to the time requirements. If the time requirements are not high, it is recommended to use sea shipping. If it is required to arrive as soon as possible, choose China railway express.

We have the stable and long-term cooperation logistics forwarder, that can solve the transportation for the EV charger import from China.

What’s the difference between ODM and OEM for Type 2 EV charge plug and cables?

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At Focus EV power, we understand your need for high-quality EV charge components tailored to your unique requirements. That’s why we offer both ODM (Original Design Manufacturer) and OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) services, providing you with the flexibility to choose the best option that suits your needs.

 

ODM (Original Design Manufacturer):

With our ODM services, we take pride in our ability to design and manufacture EV charge plug and cables that align precisely with your specifications. Our engineers will work closely with you to develop custom solutions that meet your specific requirements, ensuring that the final products are perfectly suited to your application.

 

Advantages of ODM:

  1. Customization: We understand that your EV charge components need to be tailored to your specific needs. Our ODM services allow you to have unique, bespoke products that match your requirements precisely. For the EV charge plug and cables, you can customize the color of both plug and cables, any color would be ok just you want, also can print your logo or words on the plug.
  2. Expertise: With our specialized knowledge and experience in EV charge plug and cables design and manufacturing, you can trust in the quality and reliability of our products. Currently it got the TUV certificate.
  3. Time and Cost Efficiency: By leveraging our existing designs and production capabilities, our ODM services can save you valuable time and costs compared to starting from scratch. It can customize as your requirement and produce in 10 workdays.
  4. Speed to Market: Our streamlined development process ensures faster product launches, helping you to seize market opportunities swiftly.

 

Disadvantages of ODM:

  1. Limited Control: While our ODM services provide customization, it’s important to note that you have limited control over the design and manufacturing process.
  2. Dependency: Outsourcing the design aspect means you may rely on our ongoing support and updates for any design-related needs.
  3. Intellectual Property Concerns: We prioritize the protection of intellectual property; however, sharing proprietary designs or technologies with us entails potential risks that we address with stringent safeguards.

 

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer):

Alternatively, our OEM services are designed for customers who have their own product designs and wish to focus on branding and marketing while relying on our manufacturing expertise.

Advantages of OEM:

  1. Branding and Control: With our OEM services, you have complete control over the design, branding, and marketing of the EV charger, reinforcing your unique brand identity.
  2. Cost Savings: Our OEM services offer a cost-effective solution for customers who have already invested in product design and require manufacturing capabilities to bring their designs to life.
  3. Focus on Core Competencies: By partnering with us as an OEM, you can focus on your core competencies, such as sales and marketing, while trusting us to handle the manufacturing process.

 

Disadvantages of OEM:

  1. Design Expertise: Please note that to take advantage of our OEM services, you need to possess the necessary design capabilities or work with a design firm to create detailed product specifications.
  2. The cost of mold opening is very expensive.
  3. Production Challenges: OEM manufacturing may require careful coordination to ensure smooth production, supply chain management, and quality control. However, our experienced team will support you throughout the process.
  4. Longer Time to Market: It’s important to consider that developing and finalizing the product design before manufacturing can add time to the overall product development timeline.

 

We are committed to providing you with the best possible service and delivering EV charge components that exceed your expectations. Whether you choose our ODM or OEM services, we are dedicated to ensuring your satisfaction.

 

Feel free to reach out to us with any questions or to discuss your specific needs further. We look forward to partnering with you to bring your vision to life.

Why EV charge plug adapter still required for the market?

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As the electric vehicle (EV) revolution gains momentum, the need for a robust and efficient charging infrastructure becomes increasingly vital. While most modern EVs come equipped with standardized charging connectors, the market demand for EV charge plug adapters remains significant. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why EV charge plug adapters continue to play a crucial role in the EV charging landscape.

1. Transition Period:
One of the primary reasons why EV charge plug adapters are still required is the ongoing transition from conventional combustion engine vehicles to electric vehicles. During this transition period, a mix of charging infrastructure is present, including older charging stations with non-standardized connectors. EV charge plug adapters serve as a bridge between different connector types, ensuring that EV owners can charge their vehicles regardless of the charging station’s connector.

2. Compatibility with Global Standards:
The global EV market comprises a multitude of charging connector standards. Various countries and regions have adopted different plug types, such as Type 1 (SAE J1772) and Type 2 (IEC 62196), along with regional variations like the CHAdeMO and CCS (Combined Charging System) standards. EV charge plug adapters enable interoperability between these different connector types, allowing EV owners to charge their vehicles in diverse locations without relying solely on specific charging networks.

3. Flexibility for Travel and Emergencies:
EV charge plug adapters provide flexibility for EV owners who frequently travel or find themselves in unforeseen situations. When traveling to regions with different charging infrastructure, an adapter ensures that EV owners can connect to any available charging station. Similarly, in emergency situations where a specific charging connector might not be available, having an adapter can be a lifesaver, allowing EV owners to recharge their vehicles when it matters most.

4. Residential Charging Options:
While home charging stations are becoming increasingly popular, not all homeowners have upgraded to the latest standardized connectors. EV charge plug adapters allow EV owners to connect their vehicles to older or non-standard charging infrastructure at home, eliminating the need for expensive charging station upgrades. This affordability factor makes adapters an attractive option for homeowners who want to transition to electric mobility without significant infrastructure investments.

5. EV Fleet Management:
For businesses and organizations that operate large EV fleets, managing different types of charging connectors can be complex and costly. By utilizing EV charge plug adapters, fleet managers can streamline operations by using a standardized connector type across their charging infrastructure. This approach simplifies fleet management, reduces costs, and ensures compatibility with a wider range of EV models.

6. Previous Unified Standard Interface and Imported Models:
In previous years, there was a unified standard interface for EV charging connectors. However, as the EV market expanded, various imported EV models from different regions were introduced. These imported models often came with charging connectors that did not conform to the prevailing regional standards. EV charge plug adapters became necessary to bridge the gap between these imported models and the existing charging infrastructure, allowing EV owners to charge their vehicles seamlessly.

In conclusion, EV charge plug adapters play a vital role in the evolving EV charging landscape. They enable compatibility between different charging connector standards, offering convenience and flexibility for EV owners. Whether during the transition period from combustion engine vehicles to EVs, for global travel, emergencies, or residential charging, adapters bridge the gap and ensure that EVs can be charged anywhere. Additionally, for businesses managing EV fleets, plug adapters simplify operations and reduce costs. The presence of previous unified standard interfaces and imported EV models further necessitates the need for adapters. As the EV ecosystem continues to grow, plug adapters remain an essential accessory, ensuring seamless charging experiences for EV owners in an ever-expanding charging infrastructure.

If you have a portable EV charger, why you still need a mode 3 EV Charger for home use?

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As electric vehicles (EVs) gain popularity, having efficient and convenient charging solutions is crucial. While portable EV chargers offer convenience for charging on the go, they are not a substitute for a Mode 3 EV charger for long-term home use. In this blog post, we will explore why investing in a Mode 3 EV charger is essential for a reliable and sustainable home charging setup.

1. Long-Term Reliability:
A Mode 3 EV charger is designed for long-term use and offers greater reliability compared to portable chargers. Portable chargers are often designed for temporary charging needs and may have limitations in terms of power output and durability. On the other hand, Mode 3 chargers are built to withstand regular use and provide a reliable charging solution for your EV at home.

2. Faster Charging Speed and Efficiency:
Mode 3 EV chargers generally offer faster charging speeds compared to portable chargers. By being hardwired into your home’s electrical system or connected to a dedicated circuit, they can provide a higher power output, allowing for quicker charging times. This increased charging speed and efficiency ensure that your EV is always ready for your daily commutes or longer trips.

3. Enhanced Safety and Compliance:
Mode 3 chargers are designed to meet specific safety standards and regulations, providing built-in safety features such as ground fault protection, overcurrent protection, and thermal management systems. Unlike portable chargers that may vary in terms of safety features and compliance, a Mode 3 charger offers peace of mind by reducing the risk of electrical hazards during charging.

4. Convenient and Dedicated Charging Solution:
By installing a Mode 3 EV charger at home, you create a dedicated charging station for your electric vehicle. This eliminates the need to rely solely on public charging stations or carry a portable charger with you everywhere. With a dedicated charging solution at home, you can conveniently charge your EV whenever needed, without worrying about availability or waiting times at public charging stations.

5. Future-Proofing:
Mode 3 EV chargers are designed to be compatible with future developments and emerging standards in EV technology and charging infrastructure. By investing in a Mode 3 charger, you ensure that your home charging setup remains up to date, adaptable to new EV models, and ready for any future changes in charging protocols. This future-proofing aspect provides long-term value and flexibility.

 

Conclusion:
While portable EV chargers offer convenience for charging on the go, they are not suitable for long-term use as a primary charging solution for your home. Investing in a Mode 3 EV charger provides long-term reliability, faster charging speeds, enhanced safety features, a convenient dedicated charging station, and future-proofing capabilities. By combining the convenience of a portable charger with the reliability and efficiency of a Mode 3 charger, you can optimize your EV charging experience and ensure a sustainable home charging setup for years to come.

Some knowledge allows us to quickly understand IEC 62196

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IEC 62196 is an international standard that defines requirements for electric vehicle charging connectors and charging stations, ensuring their safety, interoperability, and performance.Here are some core points covered by IEC 62196:

1. Connector Types: IEC 62196 defines different connector types for AC and DC charging. For AC charging, it includes Type 1 (SAE J1772), Type 2 (Mennekes), and Type 3 connectors. For DC charging, it includes Type 4 (CHAdeMO), Type 2 Combo (CCS Combo 2), and Type 1 Combo (CCS Combo 1) connectors.

2. Electrical Safety: The standard establishes safety requirements for charging connectors and charging stations to ensure the protection of users and the EV. It covers aspects such as insulation, protection against electric shock, temperature rise, and resistance to mechanical stress.

3. Communication Protocol: IEC 62196 defines the communication protocol between the EV and the charging station, which enables functions such as control, safety, and billing. It includes the signaling between the vehicle and the charging station to determine the charging parameters and to establish a reliable connection.

4. Charging Modes: The standard specifies different charging modes, including Mode 1, Mode 2, Mode 3, and Mode 4. These modes define the different levels of charging power and the necessary safety measures. Mode 3 is commonly used in Europe for AC charging and supports higher power levels compared to Mode 2.

5. Mechanical Requirements: IEC 62196 covers mechanical aspects of the charging connectors, including dimensions, materials, durability, and resistance to environmental conditions. This ensures compatibility and reliability between different EVs and charging stations.

6. Performance and Testing: The standard outlines testing procedures and requirements to verify the performance and safety of charging connectors and charging stations. This includes tests for electrical and mechanical properties, environmental conditions, and interoperability.

It’s important to note that IEC 62196 has several parts, each focusing on different aspects of EV charging. These include IEC 62196-1 (General requirements), IEC 62196-2 (AC charging connectors), IEC 62196-3 (DC charging connectors), and others.

 

Part 1: General requirements
IEC 62196-1:2022 is applicable to EV plugs, EV socket-outlets, vehicle connectors, vehicle inlets, herein referred to as “accessories”, and to cable assemblies for electric vehicles (EV) intended for use in conductive charging systems which incorporate control means, with a rated operating voltage not exceeding:

690 V AC 50 Hz to 60 Hz, at a rated current not exceeding 250 A;
1500 V DC at a rated current not exceeding 800 A.
This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition published in 2014. This edition constitutes a technical revision.

Part 1 can check more details from the official website page:

https://www.iecee.org/certification/iec-standards/iec-62196-12022

Part 2: Dimensional compatibility requirements for AC pin and contact-tube accessories

IEC 62196-2:2022 applies to EV plugs, EV socket-outlets, vehicle connectors and vehicle inlets with pins and contact-tubes of standardized configurations, herein referred to as accessories. These accessories have a nominal rated operating voltage not exceeding 480 V AC, 50 Hz to 60 Hz, and a rated current not exceeding 63 A three phase or 70 A single phase, for use in conductive charging of electric vehicles.

Part 2 can check more details from the official website page:

https://www.iecee.org/certification/iec-standards/iec-62196-22022

Part 3: Dimensional compatibility requirements for DC and AC/DC pin and contact-tube vehicle couplers

IEC 62196-3:2022 is applicable to vehicle couplers with pins and contact tubes of standardized configuration, herein also referred to as “accessories”, intended for use in electric vehicle conductive charging systems which incorporate control means, with rated operating voltage and current in accordance with IEC 62196-1:2022.
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2014. This edition constitutes a technical revision.

Part 3 can check more details from the official website page:

https://www.iecee.org/certification/iec-standards/iec-62196-32022

As an importer of charging stations, it is crucial to comply with the relevant parts of IEC 62196 to ensure the products you import meet the required safety and performance standards for electric vehicle charging in Europe.

 

Use a few pictures to clarify the EV charging connector in major regions of the world!

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“Unlocking the potential of electric vehicles (EVs) requires a comprehensive understanding of their charging infrastructure. As the world embraces sustainable transportation, it’s crucial to navigate the intricate web of EV charging connectors found across different regions. In this blog post, we will delve into the global landscape of EV charging connectors and demystify their variations. Through the power of visuals, we will utilize a curated collection of pictures to shed light on the diverse charging standards adopted in major regions worldwide. Whether you’re an EV owner, an industry enthusiast, or simply curious about the future of clean mobility, this visual journey will provide you with the clarity you need to navigate the charging connector maze. Join us as we embark on an enlightening exploration of EV charging connectors around the world.”

The end of the vehicle socket-Inlets:

While for the EV charging plug outlets type as this:

 

So, you will see these Type 2 and CCS2 plugs & inlets &connectors in Europe market:

In USA, you will see this type 1 and CCS1 plugs &inlets connectors:

In China, we always saw these connectors:

No matter how the world develops and changes, all charging interfaces are gradually unified towards these standards. Even though fast charging and super charging may differ, basic AC charging ports will quickly be unified towards the above standards.

What’s the Charging Connectors and Standards for EVs in Europe.

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1 Type 2 (IEC62196-2):
– Type 2, Conforms to IEC62196-2 standard, is the most common charging connector used in Europe current (AC: single phase 230V/ Three phases 400V) home EV charging.
– It is a seven-pin connector that supports single-phase AC charging (up to 7.4 kW) and three-phase AC charging (up to 22 kW).
– Type 2 connectors are compatible with most European EV models and are widely available at public charging stations and home charging units.
– AC charging using a Type 2 connector is suitable for overnight charging or longer periods when the vehicle is parked. It’s much safer than Mode 2(Portable EV charger) with long-term charging.

2 Combined Charging System Type 2 (CCS2):
– The Combined Charging System (CCS2) connector is the European standard for high-power DC charging, which allows for faster charging times.
– CCS combines the Type 2 connector for AC charging with two additional DC pins located beneath the AC pins.
– CCS supports both AC and DC charging, making it versatile and compatible with a wide range of electric vehicles.
– DC charging using CCS can deliver power levels ranging from 50 kW to over 350 kW, enabling rapid charging for long-distance travel.
– CCS connectors are typically found at fast-charging stations along major highways and in urban areas.

3 Tesla’s Proprietary Connector:
– Tesla, a prominent electric vehicle manufacturer, uses its own proprietary charging connector known as the Tesla Connector or Tesla Supercharger.
– Tesla vehicles come with built-in charging adapters for the Tesla Supercharger network, which offers high-power DC charging.
– Tesla Superchargers have a unique plug design that is not compatible with other charging standards like Type 2 or CCS.
– However, Tesla has also equipped its vehicles with adapters to support charging at Type 2 AC stations and some CCS fast-charging stations.

4 Standardization Efforts:
– The European Union has been working towards standardizing charging connectors to ensure interoperability and ease of use for EV owners.
– The goal is to establish a unified standard that allows EVs to charge using any available charging infrastructure across different European countries.
– The chosen standard is the Combined Charging System (CCS), which combines AC and DC charging capabilities and supports different power levels.
– Type 2 and CCS2 is widely adopted by major European automakers, charging network operators, and public authorities, contributing to its prevalence in the market.
That means ,100% no problem if we config the type 2 connectors for home EV charging and CCS2 connectors for business/fast EV charging.
Some connectors and standards by referring to reliable sources or the official websites of relevant organizations and EV manufacturers:

  1. European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA):
    • Website: https://www.acea.be/
    • ACEA represents the interests of the major European automobile manufacturers and provides insights on the automotive industry, including electric mobility.
  2. European Charging Infrastructure Association (ECIA):
    • Website: https://www.ecia.eu/
    • ECIA is an association dedicated to promoting the development and deployment of charging infrastructure for electric vehicles in Europe.
  3. CharIN E.V. (Charging Interface Initiative):
    • Website: https://www.charinev.org/
    • CharIN is an international association that aims to promote and develop the Combined Charging System (CCS) standard for EV charging worldwide.
  4. European Union Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport (DG MOVE):

How is the home EV charger developing in Europe?

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In Europe, the development of home EV chargers has been driven by a combination of factors, including the growth in electric vehicle adoption, government incentives to encourage EV charging infrastructure, and advancements in technology that have made EV charging more convenient and accessible.

Many European countries have set ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and increasing the adoption of electric vehicles is a key strategy for achieving these goals. Governments have introduced various incentives to encourage EV ownership, such as tax breaks, subsidies, and access to special parking and driving lanes.

In response to this growing demand, many companies have developed home EV charging solutions that are easy to install and use. These chargers typically require a 230V electrical supply or 3 phase 400V and can charge an EV’s battery in a few hours. Some models even come with smart features that allow users to monitor their charging sessions, schedule charging times, and remotely start and stop charging, also can safety management with RFID and Home DLB (Dynamic Load Balancing) functions. All these functions depended on the smart controller and protocol controller, now we- Focus EV power co.ltd supply the complete functions EV charge controller for both home charger and business charger solution.

Furthermore, many European countries have implemented regulations that require new buildings to have EV charging infrastructure installed, which has also contributed to the growth of home EV chargers. As a result, home EV chargers have become more affordable, user-friendly, and widely available throughout Europe, making it easier for electric vehicle owners to charge their cars at home.