Decoding the GB/T Charging Standard: A Comprehensive Guide

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Introduction to GB/T Charging Standard

Established by the Standardization Administration of China, the GB/T charging standard presents a set of rules for electric vehicle AC and DC fast charging predominantly used in China. This regulation is a part of the GB/T 20234 family and has been revised and updated most recently in 2015.

 

Origin and Purpose

Comparable to standards from the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), and the International Standards Organization (ISO), GB/T standards offer general, physical, and signaling requirements for electric vehicle charging interfaces.

 

Comparison with other standards

Despite the similarities with other international standards, the GB/T charging standard sets itself apart by addressing the specific requirements of China's electric vehicle market. In essence, it provides a comprehensive framework for the implementation of EV charging systems in the country.

 

Understanding GB/T Standards

The GB/T charging standard consists of various specific standards, each catering to a unique aspect of the EV charging process.

General Requirements (GB/T 18487)

This standard outlines the general requirements for conductive charging systems, analogous to IEC 618511.

Physical Requirements (GB/T 20234)

GB/T 20234 elaborates on the physical requirements for connectors and interfaces, corresponding to IEC 62196 and SAE J17721.

Communication Requirements (GB/T 27930)

GB/T 27930, on the other hand, handles the communication requirements, corresponding to ISO 15118 and SAE J17721.

 

List of GB/T Standards

The five referenced GB/T standards, revised and released on December 28, 2015, offer a structured approach to EV charging.

GB/T 18487.1-2015

This standard sets general requirements for conducting charging systems for electric vehicles.

GB/T 20234.1-2015

GB/T 20234.1-2015 focuses on connectors for conducting charging for electric vehicles.

GB/T 20234.2-2015

This standard addresses alternating current charging interfaces.

GB/T 20234.3-2015

Here, the standard deals with direct current charging interfaces.

GB/T 27930-2015

The GB/T 27930-2015 standard presents the communication protocol between the off-board conductive charger and the battery management system of an electric vehicle.

 

Charging Interface

The GB/T charging standard also defines the charging interface's common terminology and modes.

Terminology

The terminology includes socket outlet (the interface on the charging station), plug (the interface on the connecting cable that mates with the socket outlet), and vehicle inlet (the interface on the vehicle).

Charging Modes

The GB/T 20234.1-2015 standard outlines three different charging modes, catering to various charging scenarios.

 

Diving into GB/T 27930

The GB/T 27930 standard, serving as a vital Chinese standard for EV charging, applies to both electric vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles.

Purpose and Usage

GB/T 27930 establishes a communication protocol between the off-board conductive charger and the battery management system of an electric vehicle.

Protocol and Connection

The protocol uses the CAN bus for a point-to-point connection between the charger and the BMS.

Diagnostic Options

GB/T 27930 also provides various diagnostic options for fault detection, thereby ensuring safe and efficient charging.

 

Differences between GB/T 27930 and SAE J1939

Despite sharing similarities with SAE J1939, GB/T 27930 showcases specific differences that make it better suited for EV charging in China.

Overview of SAE J1939

SAE J1939 is an automotive standard that dictates how components in vehicles communicate with each other.

Significant Differences

While both GB/T 27930 and SAE J1939 use the CAN bus, they differ in their application and communication protocol, with GB/T 27930 specifically designed for EV charging.

Conclusion

The GB/T charging standard, with its comprehensive and structured approach, plays a pivotal role in supporting China's rapidly growing EV market. By standardizing the requirements for EV charging, it enables seamless integration of EVs into the power grid, ensuring a smooth user experience and promoting a more sustainable future.