ABB E-mobility and MAN Truck & Bus have completed a successful megawatt charging trial using Ethernet-based communication protocols, marking a significant step toward commercial implementation of the Megawatt Charging System (MCS). The test, conducted in Munich, featured communication based on the ISO 15118-20 and ISO 15118-10 standards, departing from earlier trials that relied on CCS-based communication methods.
The trial demonstrated MCS charging at over 700 volts and 1,000 amps using a proof-of-concept charger developed by ABB and based on its Terra platform. According to ABB and MAN, the test validated the systemās stability during extended, high-power charging sessionsākey for commercial fleet operators seeking reduced downtime and increased operational efficiency.
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MCS, designed for up to 1,250 volts and 3,000 amps, targets future charging rates of up to 3.75 megawatts. In contrast to the CCS protocol, which uses Powerline Communication (PLC), MCS adopts digital communication via Ethernet as defined by IEEE 802.3, improving reliability and interoperability.
ABB E-mobility emphasized that the transition to Ethernet-based communication aligns the charging infrastructure with high-performance use cases. MAN noted that reaching the 1,000-amp milestone using the finalized communication standard confirms the readiness of MCS for commercial rollout. The companies said the charging interface also benefits from standardized port placement, which simplifies infrastructure planning and deployment.
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The recent trial builds on a cooperation agreement signed between ABB and MAN in early 2024, following a previous 700 kW megawatt charging demonstration. ABB is also partnering with other truck manufacturers like Scaniaāanother member of the Traton Groupāto conduct additional software and interoperability testing, with the goal of streamlining deployment and addressing early challenges in the MCS ecosystem.
The international standardization process for MCS is nearing completion, with both companies actively contributing through the CharIN industry alliance.