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.
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.
Although DIN 70121 is the earliest CCS Charging communication protocol, it is based on the development of 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.
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 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.
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.
RCD (residual current device) is a safety production device used to check and prevent electrical leakage in EV chargers. Electrical be cut down to prevent accidents when RCD detects electricity abnormality.
The UK Smart Charging Regulations set clear requirements for smart charging technology, interoperability, security and data monitoring, and set the direction of technology improvement and market development for the EV charging equipment industry.
OTA（Over-The-Air）, means it can remotely upgrade software by the wireless network. It has become an important menthol to improving EV charger performance and user’s experience.
