The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) has published a set of recommended practices for automated electric vehicle (EV) charging systems. The practices, known as J2954, cover public and private EV charging stations that use an app, account, or card to initiate a charging session without direct intervention from station personnel.

The recommendations are the result of a year-long effort by SAE International’s EVSE Working Group, which is chaired by Tesla. The working group includes representatives from automakers, suppliers, charging network operators, and other stakeholders. J2954 was developed in response to the growing popularity of EVs and the need for a common set of standards and procedures for automated charging.

The recommended practices cover four key areas: user interface design, authentication and authorization, system security, and transaction management. J2954 is intended to help EVSE providers ensure a consistent and safe experience for users, while also protecting their equipment and data from tampering or theft.

  • User interface design: The recommended practices include guidance on how to design EVSE user interfaces that are easy to use and understand. Key considerations include language selection, button and control layout, and status indicators.
  • Authentication and authorization: J2954 recommends the use of authenticated user accounts or cards to initiate a charging session. This helps to ensure that only authorized users can access a charging station and that billing is properly processed.
  • System security: The recommended practices include guidance on how to secure EVSE equipment from unauthorized access and tampering. This includes measures such as physical security, access control, and data encryption.
  • Transaction management: J2954 recommends the use of electronic receipts to document charging transactions. This helps to ensure that users are billed correctly and that charging records are accurate.

SAE International’s EVSE Working Group is currently working on a second set of recommended practices for Level 3 (DC fast) charging stations. These guidelines are expected to be published in early 2019.