Charging mode 1, 2, 3 and 4

The differentiation between the different modes is not important for the end user in everyday life. Some manufacturers write the mode on their product, but that's always the right one. The main reason for the distinction is that professionals talk about the right thing instead of talking past each other.

Mode 1:

The car is simply charged without any communication. It just has a completely normal connection for the socket. The way historic vehicles from the 20th century are charged.

Mode 2:

We know this mode best from Schuko cables (ICCB). It describes a charging process in which the charging cable is practically mode 1 on one side and a control unit in the middle, which makes model 3 for the car on the other side. This control unit is also known colloquially as a brick. In addition to the type 2 protocol, it has other security properties and checks, for example, that the connector on the mode 1 side does not overheat.

Mode 3:

That is the standard that we know best. Type 2 with standardized protocol. Every charging station and wallbox does just that.

Mode 4:

Now we are talking about CCS fast charging, i.e. with DC power. No distinction is made between 400 V and 800 V.