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What is DIN 70121 for EV Chargers?

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In DC fast charging stations, DIN 70121 and ISO 15118 are two important communication protocol standards. They are co-decision communication methods between DCFC(Direct Current Fast Charge) and electric vehicles (EV).

This article will explore DIN 70121’s definition, explain what makes it different from ISO 15118, and introduce its applications in DC charging and combined charging systems.

What is DIN 70121

DIN 70121 is the DC charging communication protocol by Deutsches Institut für Normung(DIN), It mainly works on The initial connection and authentication process in Combined Charging System 1 (North America) and Combined Charging System 2(Europe). For example, when an electric car is connected charging station, the  DIN 70121 sets out how to communicate during the charging process and ensure that the charging operation can be carried out safely and smoothly.

The main features of DIN 70121:

  • Supports plug & charge, However, advanced authentication and payment features are not included.

 

 

  • The main use of CCS DC Charging, is used for Level 3 DC Fast chargers.

 

Although DIN 70121 is the earliest CCS Charging communication protocol, it is based on the development of ISO 15118.

Joint EVD003 DC Charger supports DIN 70121 and Plug & Charge

What is ISO 15118?

ISO 15118 is the communication protocol published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).it only includes the feature of DIN 70121, but also expands more advanced feature.

 

  • Supports Plug & Charge, allows electric car and charger to auto authenticate、payment and charging authorization.

 

  • Enhanced safety with end-to-end cryptography using PKI to ensure the security of charging data.

 

 

  • supports multiple charging models, not only DC Charging but also AC charging communication.

 

ISO 15118 has become a key standard for future smart charging, and it is gradually replacing DIN 70121 as the main communication protocol for CCS fast charging systems in the world.

DIN 70121 vs ISO 15118:Key differences

DIN 70121 is the early CCS DC charging standard, which only supports basic vehicle-station communication with low security, and is suitable for basic DC charging needs.


ISO 15118 is the more advanced communication protocol, supporting Plug & Charge, V2G and other functions, providing more possibilities for future smart charging.

Conclusion

DIN 70121 is an early CCS DC fast charging communication protocol that provides basic vehicle-charger communication but it has no advanced authentication and security cryptography.

 

Unlike DIN 70121, ISO 15118 is a more advanced standard that supports Plug & Charge, V2G, more security and is more suitable for EV charging.

 

With the development of smart charging, ISO 15118 is replacing DIN 70121 and becoming the global communication protocol standard.

 

So, many regions choose ev chargers that support ISO 15118 when installing EV charging infrastructure, it will be convenient for public charging support to charge service to EV drivers.

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