IEC 62893-4-1:2020

Overview - IEC 62893-4-1:2020 for DC charging cables (Mode 4)

IEC 62893-4-1:2020 specifies requirements for charging cables for electric vehicles used for DC charging (Mode 4) without a thermal management system. It applies to heavy‑duty, flexible DC charging cables for rated voltages up to and including 0,6/1 kV (AC) and up to 1,5 kV DC, intended as Class II equipment. The standard defines construction, marking, testing and safe-use guidance for cables not designed to work with the thermal management systems described in IEC 61851‑23.

Key technical topics and requirements

• Scope & purpose: Cables for DC Mode 4 charging where no thermal management system is used; maximum conductor operating temperature 90 °C.
• Rated voltage: 0,6/1 kV AC; up to 1,5 kV DC for power cores.
• Cable types and materials: Designations 62893 IEC 126, 127 and 128 with sheath compounds EVM‑1 / EVM‑2 / EVM‑3 and insulation types EVI‑1 / EVI‑2.
• Conductor sizes: Power cores from 4 mm² to 150 mm² (two or more cores); optional PE and auxiliary power cores (2,5–6 mm²); temperature sensor and pilot/control cores as required.
• Screening: Optional copper braid screens with minimum 80% optical coverage for cores or assemblies.
• Construction details: Twisted cores, no centre-core, specified insulation and sheath thicknesses (Annex B), core identification (colours or durable numbering), and circular sheath finish.
• Marking: Continuous code designation, rated voltage, number and cross‑section of power and PE conductors.
• Tests & test methods: References to IEC 62893‑2 (test methods), IEC 60245‑2, IEC 60332‑1‑2 (flame), IEC 62821‑1:2015 (halogen‑free, low smoke) and relevant parts of IEC 60811. Annexes cover completed‑cable tests, bending, screens and inductance.

Practical applications - who uses this standard

• Cable manufacturers designing and certifying EV DC charging cables for Mode 4 applications.
• EVSE (charging station) manufacturers and integrators ensuring compatible, safe cable assemblies.
• Testing and certification labs performing the normative tests and issuing conformity reports.
• Procurement/spec writers, fleet operators and installers who need compliant cable specifications for fast DC charging without active cooling.
• Safety and compliance engineers using the standard to verify insulation, marking, temperature limits and fire performance.

Related standards

• IEC 62893‑1:2017 (general requirements)
• IEC 62893‑2:2017 (test methods)
• IEC 61851‑1 (EV conductive charging - general) and IEC 61851‑23 (DC charging stations - thermal management)
• IEC 62440 (guidance on safe use of cables)
• IEC 60332‑1‑2, IEC 60811, IEC 62821‑1 and IEC 60245‑2 (test and material standards)

This standard ensures safe, interoperable EV charging cables for DC fast charging Mode 4 applications where passive cable cooling is required.