The Flexible Fast Charger (Mode 2 Charging Cable) is a portable charging device designed for electric vehicles, specifically BMW, MINI, or Rolls-Royce models. It serves as a versatile solution for charging your electric vehicle wherever you are, adapting to various electrical environments through its interchangeable mains adapter cables.
Function Description
The core function of the Flexible Fast Charger is to provide a safe and efficient way to charge an electric vehicle from a domestic outlet. It operates as a Mode 2 charging cable, meaning it incorporates an In-Cable-Control-Box (ICCB) which manages the charging process and ensures safety. This ICCB, or function box, is equipped with an LED indicator that provides visual feedback on the charging status, potential errors, and operational conditions such as temperature, current limitation, mains voltage, and ground detection.
The device is designed to be user-friendly, allowing for a straightforward charging process. To initiate charging, the appropriate mains adapter cable is connected to the Flexible Fast Charger, and then to a domestic outlet. Once connected to the outlet, the charging status bar on the function box will flash orange and then illuminate blue, signaling that the charger is ready. The final step involves connecting the vehicle connector to the electric vehicle's inlet, which automatically starts the charging session, indicated by a flashing blue LED bar.
A key feature of the Flexible Fast Charger is its ability to adapt to different power requirements. It allows users to switch between the maximum charging current of the mains adapter cable and a limited 6A current using a push button on the function box. This power limitation feature is particularly useful for ensuring compatibility with various electrical house installations and preventing overload. The device also includes a manual restart function, activated by a long press of the button, which can be used to reset the charger in case of an error, such as a blinking red "Internal error" LED indicator.
The Flexible Fast Charger is designed with safety in mind, incorporating features like ground detection for TT/TN earthing systems and specific handling for IT earthing systems (e.g., Norway), which are indicated by a yellow marking on the mains adapter cables. The device ensures that the electrical power connection complies with national statutory regulations and recommends using it with a sufficiently dimensioned circuit breaker to reduce the risk of fire.
Usage Features
The Flexible Fast Charger offers several usage features that enhance its convenience and safety:
- Interchangeable Mains Adapter Cables: The device supports various types of mains adapter cables, allowing it to be used with different international plug types (e.g., Type E+F, Type G, Type J, Type K, Type N, TIS 166-2549, CEE 16A, CEE 32A). This adaptability ensures that users can charge their vehicles in diverse locations with different electrical outlets. Changing the mains adapter cable is a simple process: rotate the adapter cap to loosen the plug, pull it away, then align the mark on the new plug, insert it, and the cap will automatically rotate and lock.
- Status LED Information: The LED indicator on the function box provides comprehensive status information at a glance. It shows whether the device is powered off (all black), performing a self-test (blink orange), in standby/ready mode (blue), actively charging (blink blue), experiencing over-temperature protection (red), an internal error (red or blink red), current limitation (orange), input under/over voltage (red), or ground detection issues (red for disconnection, orange for IT earthing system).
- Charging Current Limitation: Users can manually limit the charging current to 6A if needed, which is indicated by an orange illumination of the "Current limitation" LED. This feature is crucial for adapting to the capacity of the electrical installation and preventing potential overloads.
- Troubleshooting Guidance: The manual provides clear troubleshooting steps for common issues, such as the indicator not lighting, flashing red during charging, or illuminating red. These steps guide users through checking connections, replugging the device, restarting it, or contacting customer support for more critical errors.
- Optional Wall Mounting: For more permanent installation, an optional accessory kit is available for wall mounting. This kit includes a bracket for the charger, a wall kit, and a cable holder, along with the necessary screws. This allows for a secure and organized charging setup at home or in a garage.
- Portability: The Flexible Fast Charger comes with a bag for safe transportation in the car. It is recommended to fasten the bag at an anchoring point to ensure safe placement during travel.
Maintenance Features
Maintenance of the Flexible Fast Charger focuses primarily on ensuring its longevity and safe operation:
- Cleaning: The charging device should only be cleaned with a dry cloth. It is essential to ensure that the device is disconnected from both the power grid and the vehicle before cleaning. Flammable solvents, such as alcohol or benzene, should not be used.
- Inspection for Damage: Regular inspection of the Flexible Fast Charger for any damage to the outlet, cable, or housing is crucial. The device should not be used if any damage is present.
- Environmental Protection: The device is designed to be robust, with an IP67 protection class, indicating resistance to dust and water immersion. However, it should not be put under water, and care should be taken to avoid driving over the charger or adapter cables.
- Cable Care: Cables should not be bent excessively, and the mains adapter should be pulled from the domestic outlet by the adapter itself, not by the cable, to prevent damage. Defective, worn, or dirty mains adapter cables or vehicle connectors should never be used.
- Authorized Repairs: Any repair work on the Flexible Fast Charger must only be performed by the manufacturer to ensure safety and maintain warranty validity. Unauthorized changes or modifications to the device are strictly prohibited.
- Label Preservation: All identifiers, such as safety symbols, warning instructions, labels, or cable markings, should not be removed. These provide critical information for safe operation.
- Proper Connection: Always ensure that the mains adapter is fully plugged into the domestic outlet. The device should not be connected to other loads or electric tools.
- Disposal: As an electronic device, the Flexible Fast Charger must be disposed of separately from normal household waste. Users are advised to dispose of it in compliance with local waste disposal and recycling regulations.