Understanding the Limits and Possibilities of Mode 2 EV Charging

As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain popularity, so does the demand for flexible, safe, and efficient charging solutions. Among these, the Mode 2 portable EV charger has become a widely adopted option—especially for personal use, fleet mobility, and emergency scenarios. But a common question arises:

How much power can a Mode 2 EV charger actually deliver?

⚙️ What is a Mode 2 EV Charger?

According to the IEC 61851-1 and IEC 62752 standards, a Mode 2 charger refers to an AC charging system that includes an in-cable control and protection device (IC-CPD). It is typically used to connect an EV to a standard household or industrial socket, without requiring a dedicated EVSE (electric vehicle supply equipment).

Unlike Mode 3 wallboxes or DC fast chargers, Mode 2 chargers are:

  • Portable
  • Plug-and-play
  • Equipped with built-in safety features such as RCD (residual current device), temperature sensors, and overcurrent protection.

⚡ Maximum Power of Mode 2 EV Chargers

The power output of a Mode 2 charger depends on input current, voltage, and design standards. Based on the IEC 62752 standard and current market offerings, here’s what’s typical:

Plug Type Max Current (In) Max Output Power Voltage Supply
UK 3-pin Plug (BS1363) 13A ~3.0 kW 230V (Single-Phase)
Australia Plug 15A ~3.6 kW 230V (Single-Phase)
Schuko/CEE Camping Plug 16A ~3.7 kW 230V (Single-Phase)
Blue CEE 32A Single Phase 32A ~7.4 kW 230V (Single-Phase)
Red CEE 16A 5-pin 3 × 16A ~11 kW 400V (Three-Phase)
Red CEE 32A 5-pin 3 × 32A ~22 kW 400V (Three-Phase)

👉 In practice, the maximum safe output for Mode 2 chargers is 22 kW, though this is mostly limited to industrial-grade three-phase portable units with appropriate connectors and protection.

🔒 Safety & Regulatory Limits

While high-power Mode 2 chargers are technically feasible, safety regulations and local electrical codes may restrict their use:

  • Many countries limit Mode 2 charging to 16A or 20A, especially on household sockets, due to overheating and fire risks.
  • IEC 62752 requires IC-CPDs to meet stringent protections for:
    • Overcurrent and undervoltage
    • Leakage detection (TYPE A + 6mA DC)
    • PEN fault detection (UK requirement)

For higher power (>11 kW), fixed Mode 3 wallboxes are often recommended unless portable units are built to industrial standards.

🧩 OEM/ODM Portable Chargers at Up to 22 kW

At [Your Brand Name], we design and manufacture Mode 2 portable EV chargers that comply with IEC 62752, offering:

  • Output up to 22 kW (32A, 3-phase)
  • Customizable input plugs (CEE, Schuko, BS, etc.)
  • Global standard support: GB/T, EN, JEVS, CHAdeMO
  • Safety features: RCD, DLB, PEN fault, surge & overheat protection
  • Full OEM/ODM customization: housing, cable, plug, firmware, display UI

Explore our full range of portable chargers on our product page.

✅ Summary: How Powerful Can a Mode 2 Charger Be?

  • Maximum theoretical power: 22 kW
  • Typical household limit: 3.0–7.4 kW
  • Industrial-grade portable chargers can deliver 11–22 kW if properly configured
  • IEC-compliant safety and plug standards must always be considered

Need a high-performance portable charger for your fleet, brand, or distribution network?
Contact us for a tailored Mode 2 EV charging solution.