How will APAS standardise EV charging adapters for cross-border use?

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APAS is Developing Standardised EV Charging Adapters and Safety Guidelines for Cross-Border Use

The Automotive Platforms and Application Systems (APAS) R&D Centre is actively working to standardise electric vehicle (EV) charging adapters for use in Mainland China, aiming to ensure both safety and convenience for Hong Kong vehicle owners. This initiative involves developing specialised adapters and establishing comprehensive safety guidelines for manufacturers and users to address the current incompatibility between Hong Kong's CCS Type 2 standard and the Mainland's GB/T standard. APAS is committed to creating a more uniform management system for charging adapters to protect the safety of car owners.
Development of Specialised Charging Adapters

APAS has developed specialised charging adapters designed to provide a seamless charging experience for drivers travelling between Hong Kong and the Mainland. These adapters are crucial because most electric vehicles in Hong Kong utilise the Combined Charging System 2 (CCS2) interface, while the Mainland predominantly uses the GB/T charging standard. This fundamental difference in charging interfaces and communication systems necessitates the use of adapters to enable charging abroad. The specifications for these APAS-developed adapters include a rated power of 150Kw, a rated voltage of 1000V, a voltage range of 200-1000V, and a current of 250A, with an IP54 protection rating. The input interface adheres to GB/T 20234.3-2015, and the output interface is CCS Type 2, compliant with IEC 62196-3 Combo standards.
Establishment of Safety Guidelines and Standards

Beyond developing the hardware, APAS intends to establish a series of safety guidelines for both manufacturers and users. This proactive measure aims to ensure that all charging adapters available on the market meet stringent safety requirements, mitigating risks associated with uncertified or non-compliant equipment. The high DC power, voltage, and current involved in fast EV charging pose significant hazards, and the use of non-compliant adapters can lead to malfunctions or even fire risks. By setting clear standards, APAS seeks to safeguard car owners and promote the responsible use of EV charging infrastructure.
Addressing Market Scarcity and Cost of Adapters

The current market faces a scarcity of suitable fast-charging adapters for cross-border EV use, with limited suppliers and high costs, ranging from several thousand to tens of thousands of Hong Kong dollars. Furthermore, even when available, the specifications of charging adapters in the Mainland can vary, potentially affecting the charging power delivered to the vehicle. APAS's efforts in standardisation and development aim to address these issues by increasing the availability of reliable adapters and ensuring consistent performance, thereby enhancing the overall convenience and cost-effectiveness for EV owners undertaking cross-border travel.
Future Vision for Standardised Management

Looking ahead, APAS is committed to implementing more standardised management of charging adapters. This future-oriented approach is intended to further improve the driving experience and facilitate convenient and safe cross-border travel for a greater number of private car owners. By fostering collaboration with professional institutions, industry stakeholders, and technical organisations in the Mainland, APAS aims to support the growth of smart cities and promote sustainable development within the new energy vehicle sector. This initiative aligns with the broader goal of enhancing the competitiveness of Hong Kong's automotive and transportation sectors in the evolving landscape of new energy and smart driving.

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How will APAS standardise EV charging adapters for cross-border use?

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