Contact Technologies for Electric Vehicle Charging

This white paper discusses the evolving landscape of electric vehicle (EV) charging technologies, focusing on the interface between charging stations and vehicles. It outlines the urgency for manufacturers to adapt to government mandates aimed at eliminating gasoline-powered vehicles, which has led to a lack of standardized charging interfaces globally. The paper details various charging methods, emphasizing conductive charging as the most prevalent. It also examines the challenges posed by the absence of a universal standard, resulting in multiple connector types and the need for diverse electrical contacts. Additionally, the document describes different contact technologies suitable for high-power applications, such as turned and stamped contacts, while highlighting the importance of correct mating sequences for durability and reliability. The paper concludes by addressing the ergonomic considerations of charging interfaces, particularly the forces involved in mating and de-mating connections, which are critical for user experience.