NIO, a leading global company specializing in premium smart electric vehicles, is taking a proactive role in shaping the future of electric mobility. They have actively participated in the development of a new industry standard for battery swap systems, specifically the draft standard E DIN EN IEC 62840-2 VDE 0122-40-2:2024-12 (VDE 0122-40-2). This standard is a significant achievement, resulting from collaborative work within the DKE (German Commission for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies) involving NIO and other key industry players. The DIN EN IEC 62840 series is designed to ensure the reliability, compatibility, and safety of battery swap technology within the German market.
Driving the Adoption of Battery Swap Technology
The core objective of this collaborative effort was to integrate the international IEC 62840 standard into the German regulatory framework. This initiative aims to promote battery swapping as a viable alternative to traditional charging methods, thereby fostering a future characterized by faster, more flexible, and sustainable electric mobility. The DKE, as the German standardization organization for electrical, electronic, and information technologies, provides an ideal platform for engaging all stakeholders in the standardization process.
NIO’s Commitment to Industry Standards
“As a pioneer in electric mobility, we recognize our responsibility to not only develop cutting-edge technologies but also to actively contribute to the establishment of industry-wide standards,” stated Kajsa Ivansson Sognefur, Head of Power Europe at NIO. “The implementation of the DIN standard for battery swap systems represents a pivotal step towards accelerating the adoption of electric mobility, enhancing flexibility, and promoting sustainability. We are proud to collaborate with the DKE and other industry stakeholders to create a future-proof infrastructure that meets the needs of users and drives the advancement of the industry.“
Strong Public Support for Battery Swap Solutions
While fixed batteries are currently the predominant technology in electric vehicles, a recent survey conducted by Ipsos on behalf of the TÜV Association reveals a significant preference for battery swap solutions among the German public. Specifically, 63 percent of respondents believe that battery swap systems are better or significantly better than fixed batteries in terms of time savings during charging and extending battery lifespan.
Addressing Standardization Challenges
The TÜV Association has identified the lack of uniform standards as a major impediment to the development and widespread adoption of battery swap models. The absence of standardized, cross-manufacturer battery swap systems poses a significant challenge. However, the implementation of a unified technology would substantially reduce the costs associated with establishing a nationwide infrastructure. Moreover, battery swap models have the potential to positively impact battery health and longevity, thereby promoting the sustainable use of resources. To capitalize on these advantages and ensure the long-term viability of electric mobility, NIO is committed to advocating for and actively contributing to the development of uniform standards.
Standardizing Battery Swap Systems and Stations
The localized industry standard DIN EN IEC 62840-2 (VDE 0122-40-2) outlines general safety requirements for battery swap systems and stations designed for electric vehicles. This standard lays the groundwork for the development of proprietary battery swap systems across manufacturers by standardizing the potential functions of a battery swap station. These functions include battery pack exchange, storage, charging, cooling, testing, maintenance, and safety management. The standard also specifies the requirements for communication between individual systems, including electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), labeling and instructions, protection against electric shock and other hazards, and emergency procedures.
Standard Development and VDE Classification
The latest version of the international DIN standard (E DIN EN IEC 62840-2 VDE 0122-40-2:2024-12 Battery Swap Systems for Electric Vehicles) was published as a draft standard by the VDE in November 2024. During the public comment period, which concluded in mid-January 2025, stakeholders had the opportunity to provide feedback on the proposed requirements. Following the review of these comments by the National Committee, the standard will be published as a German standard. Notably, the E DIN EN IEC 62840-2 VDE 0122-40-2:2024-12 has already received a VDE classification, which attests to its adherence to safety, quality, and legal compliance standards in electrical engineering. This standard combines German precision with international acceptance and serves as an indispensable resource for the planning, installation, and testing of electrical systems.
NIO’s Pioneering Battery Swap Infrastructure
NIO is at the forefront of battery system research and development, combining industrial expertise with technological innovation. The company’s mobile, internet-based charging and battery swap solution, NIO Power, features a network of Power Swap Stations (PSS) that facilitate both battery charging and swapping, representing the future of electric mobility. Currently, NIO has deployed over 3,000 PSS in China, 59 in Europe, and 19 in Germany, with plans for further expansion.
Driving Innovation in Electric Mobility
NIO’s objective is to expand its charging infrastructure within Germany and Europe, offering advanced services that simplify and enhance the safety of everyday electric mobility. Through innovations such as Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS), NIO Power Swap, the NIO Charging Map, and NIO Power Home, NIO is consistently redefining industry standards. In China, over 80 percent of NIO users now live or work within a three-kilometer radius of a PSS.
Source: Nio
