SAE International has published the SAE J3400™: NACS Electric Vehicle Coupler Technical Recommended Practice (RP), establishing guidelines for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in North America.
This new framework sets out physical, electrical, and safety requirements, aiming to ensure consistency and compatibility across the growing EV market. The release is part of broader efforts to create a unified charging system that benefits both users and industry participants.
The SAE J3400™ RP outlines specifications for supporting 1000V DC fast charging, SAE Universal AC charging, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capabilities. The acronym NACS, originally referring to the “North American Charging Standard,” has been updated to “North American Charging System” to reflect its expanded scope, encompassing a wider range of charging components. The recommended practice is designed to enhance compatibility across different charging networks and reduce reliance on proprietary adaptors.
This release represents a step forward in EV infrastructure development. Dr. Rodney McGee, chair of the SAE J3400™ NACS Task Force, highlighted the inclusion of features such as thermal management for fast charging and V2G functionality. Chris Nevers from Rivian noted that the standard will help simplify the adoption of NACS and improve the charging process for EV users.
Gabe Klein, executive director of the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation, commented on the importance of the J3400 RP in supporting a more compatible charging ecosystem. Christian Thiele, director of global ground vehicle standards at SAE International, added that the RP is on track to become a formal standard by the end of the year, with future updates planned to accommodate ongoing technological developments.
The NACS connector, initially developed by Tesla and standardized by SAE, is part of a collaborative industry effort to create a more seamless EV charging experience across North America.
