Vector launches communication controller for megawatt charging
Vector Informatik starts series production of vSECC.MCS communication controller for Megawatt Charging System (MCS).
www.vector.com
As the heavy-duty transportation sector transitions to electrification, significantly higher charging capacities are required compared to conventional systems. MCS is designed to rapidly recharge large vehicle batteries during short downtimes, such as legally mandated driving breaks. A key enabler of this process is communication between the charging point and the vehicle, handled by the communication controller.
The market launch of the vSECC.MCS follows approximately one year of field testing with pilot customers. The controller was deployed under real-world conditions across various system environments, and customer feedback was incorporated into product refinement. The electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) tests on the final prototypes were successfully completed, clearing the way for series production. The first deliveries are scheduled for 2025.
The controller supports charging powers of up to 3.75 megawatts. Using MCS, a typical truck battery can be charged to 80 percent in around 45 minutes. The communication interface is based on the international ISO 15118-20 standard and uses Ethernet-based communication. The connector system complies with the IEC TS 63379 technical specification. In addition to MCS, vSECC.MCS also supports the Combined Charging System (CCS), offering backward compatibility with existing vehicles and enabling two vehicles to charge simultaneously at a single station.
vSECC.MCS builds on the same hardware platform as Vector’s proven CCS controller, vSECC, and shares a common firmware base. This allows existing designs to be easily extended and new MCS systems to be developed quickly.
“With vSECC.MCS, we are bringing a field-proven communication controller for MCS into series production. Our development focused on robust communication, seamless system integration, and fast availability. Thanks to our close collaboration with pilot customers, we were able to tailor the product closely to real-world requirements,” said Dr. Omar Abu Mohareb, Product Manager for Communication Controllers at Vector.
vSECC.MCS is part of Vector’s e-mobility portfolio for charging infrastructure. The company also offers a range of additional solutions including controllers for charging stations and wallboxes, the charging and load management system vCharM, and vSECClib software libraries for communication protocols. Together, these products support the efficient implementation of intelligent, grid-friendly charging strategies.
www.vector.com
