FprCEN/TS 18391
(Main)Road vehicles - Electrically propelled vehicles - Swappable battery system applied to L-category vehicles
- Abstract
This document describes main technical specifications to be considered for ensuring interoperability and compatibility of swappable battery systems for small batteries, at battery-system level, vehicle level and charging-station level.
NOTE For specifications at battery system level and charging station level, see also EN IEC 62840 1, IEC 62840 3 and EN 50604 1.
The document is applicable to L-category vehicles, although some vehicles included in that category might not fit in terms of power or energy rating.
This document focuses on the following aspects that are crucial towards interoperability and compatibility:
— electrical specifications;
— mechanical specifications;
— connector specifications;
— BMS and communication protocols;
— safety and security specifications (including cybersecurity).
The document specifies requirements for the following:
— applications with the following numbers and configuration of battery systems;
— single (1S1P);
— maximum 2 in series – 1 in parallel (2S1P);
— maximum 1 in series – 6 in parallel (1S6P);
— maximum 2 in series – 2 in parallel (2S2P).
— battery-vehicle interface;
— battery-charging station interface;
— charging station.
Interoperability among charging station and operators is not covered in this document.
- Status
- Not Published
- Publication Date
- 20-Jan-2027
- Technical Committee
- CEN/TC 301 - Electrically propelled road vehicles
- Drafting Committee
- WG 19 - Swappable battery system for L-category vehicles
- Current Stage
- 5020 - Submission to Vote - Formal Approval
- Start Date
- 03-Sep-2026
- Due Date
- 18-Aug-2026
- Completion Date
- 03-Sep-2026
FprCEN/TS 18391 is a CEN draft Technical Specification for road vehicles with electrically propelled swappable battery systems in L-category vehicles. It specifies technical requirements for interoperability and compatibility at battery-system, vehicle, and charging-station level, with coverage of electrical, mechanical, connector, BMS, communication, safety, and cybersecurity aspects. It is aimed at manufacturers, vehicle and charging-station integrators, test labs, and buyers who need to know whether a swappable battery solution will work across compliant products.
What does FprCEN/TS 18391 specify?
FprCEN/TS 18391 sets main technical specifications for swappable battery systems for small batteries, with the goal of making batteries, vehicles, and charging stations interoperable and compatible. The scope also notes that interoperability among the charging station and operators is not covered.
The document applies to L-category vehicles, while noting that some vehicles in that category may not fit the power or energy rating assumptions. It focuses on electrical specifications, mechanical specifications, connector specifications, BMS and communication protocols, and safety and security specifications, including cybersecurity.
The document is organized into general principles, safety and security requirements, mechanical requirements, electrical requirements, connector requirements, state-machine requirements, and a vehicle management system wake-up requirement. Annex A gives dimensions and connector interface instructions, and Annex B gives interface communication requirements.
| Annex | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Annex A | Swappable battery system dimensions, reference casing for endurance testing, connector pinout, and connector interface instructions |
| Annex B | Minimum CAN communication messages, signals, and value tables for battery-vehicle and battery-charging-station communication |
What are the key requirements of FprCEN/TS 18391?
FprCEN/TS 18391 is built around interchangeability: a compliant battery should work with a compliant vehicle and charging station without special modifications. Clause 5 states the core operating principle, and that matters in practice because it defines the document as an interface standard, not just a battery safety document.
Safety and cybersecurity
Clause 6 links the swappable battery system to established safety classes and cybersecurity practice. The battery system shall meet voltage class A safety requirements, while 2S1P and 2S2P configurations shall meet voltage class B requirements; the BMS shall also be protected against cyberattacks in accordance with ISO/SAE 21434.
Clause 6 also requires electrical insulation performance, isolation resistance, withstand voltage, and crash-event recording in non-volatile memory. In practice, this means a supplier must design for safe touch conditions, fault tolerance, and traceable post-event data, not only normal operation.
Functional safety is treated as project-specific, but the document recommends applying a process compliant with ISO 26262-12 and considering at least ASIL B for safety-relevant BMS functions as SEooC. That gives design teams a clear baseline for safety engineering work.
Mechanical design and environmental robustness
Clause 7 limits the battery system mass to 12 kg and defines a rectangular-prism form with a top handle and bottom connector. Annex A gives the reference dimensions. This matters because the document is intended for manual swapping, so size, grip, and handling force are part of interoperability.
The battery case shall contain all battery-system components, with no external BMS, and the system shall achieve IP65 when mated and unmated. Clause 7 also requires endurance to repeated insertion and removal, clamping force, and durable plugging and unplugging. These requirements are important because swapping systems fail in service when latches, housings, or connectors wear out before the battery itself does.
Clause 7 further ties the battery system to vibration, shock, drop, thermal shock, water resistance, fire resistance, overtemperature, dewing, salt resistance, heating, and air-tightening requirements. Most of these tests refer to EN ISO 18243:2025, so implementers can see that real-world handling and exposure are part of the qualification case.
Electrical performance and operating limits
Clause 8 sets the electrical operating envelope. The maximum operating voltage shall not exceed 60 V d.c., and the minimum operating voltage shall be 42 V d.c. or lower. The document also requires continuous discharge power of at least 2 kW in the stated state-of-charge range, rated energy of at least 1 200 Wh, and round-trip efficiency of at least 85 %.
Clause 8 also defines charge and discharge capability at room temperature and at -10 °C, together with self-discharge limits, cycle-life retention after 2 000 cycles, inrush current control, pre-charge, overload protection, short-circuit protection, and EMC compliance with CISPR 12 and ISO 11451-2. In practice, this tells designers what the battery must sustain during normal use, storage, and charging, and what test evidence buyers should expect.
Connectors and pinout
Clause 9 standardizes the connection system so that power and signal contacts behave consistently. It requires clear marking, defined connector types, a reversible connector architecture, contact engagement and disengagement order, tolerance compensation, and limits on mating force, retention force, and wear.
Annex A defines the connector pinout and interface instructions, while Clause 9 points to EN IEC 63066:2026 for detailed connector testing and safety performance. This is important because the connector is the physical gateway for both power transfer and communication, and small differences here can break interchangeability.
BMS state machine and communication
Clause 10 makes the BMS the primary interface and requires a defined state machine with states such as POWER OFF, INIT, IDLE, ACTIVE, PRECHARGE, RIDE, CHARGE, SHUTDOWN, SLEEP, FAULT OFF, and PROGRAMMING. It also requires the communication protocol to follow ISO 11898-1, diagnostic functions to follow ISO 14229-1, and the minimum CAN messages to match Annex B.
In practice, that means the battery, vehicle, and charging station must share a common control logic, message set, and wake-up behavior. Clause 11 adds that the vehicle management system or vehicle control unit shall not communicate on CAN bus when the battery is in sleep mode, to avoid unwanted wake-up and discharge.
Multi-battery configurations
The document covers single batteries and configurations up to 2S1P, 1S6P, and 2S2P. Clause 7 and Clause 8 require identification by PIN coding and CAN, and activation via CAN. For integrators, this is the part that governs how multiple batteries can be combined safely and how the system knows which unit is installed.
What terms does FprCEN/TS 18391 define?
- battery system - An energy storage device that includes cells or cell assemblies together with circuits and electronics such as the BCU and contactors.
- charge rate - The electric current at which a battery is charged, expressed using the rated capacity and time base.
- discharge rate - The electric current at which a battery is discharged, based on rated capacity and discharge time.
- compatibility - The ability of swappable battery systems to meet the needs of vehicles and battery swap stations for energy transfer and data exchange without undesirable performance loss.
- interface communication - The ability of the on-board battery system to exchange information through electrical/software communication with external interfaces.
- interoperability - The ability to transfer power and/or data among swappable battery systems, vehicles, and battery swap stations without special interfaces or conversion hardware.
- small battery - A battery with a gross mass of not more than 12 kg.
- battery management system (BMS) - The control and monitoring system that manages battery operation, protection, and communication.
Who uses FprCEN/TS 18391?
FprCEN/TS 18391 is used by battery manufacturers, vehicle manufacturers, charging-station designers, BMS and software engineers, test laboratories, and conformity assessment teams. It is also relevant for buyers, quality managers, and system integrators who need to specify or verify a swappable battery interface for L-category vehicles.
The introduction also points to industry and commerce, SMEs, academic and research bodies, and consumers/users. In practice, those groups use the document to design products, plan tests, compare interfaces, and check whether batteries from different suppliers can be swapped and charged in the same system.
Which standards are used with FprCEN/TS 18391?
| Standard | What it contributes |
|---|---|
| EN 50604-1:2016, as impacted by EN 50604-1:2016/A1:2021 and EN 50604-1:2016/A2 | Safety requirements and test method for secondary lithium batteries for light EV applications |
| EN 60335-1 | General electrical safety framework used for parts of the system |
| EN ISO 7010:2020 | Safety symbols used for labelling and marking |
| EN ISO 18243:2025 | Test specifications and safety requirements used for many mechanical and environmental tests |
| EN IEC 60309-4 | Temperature-rise testing for terminals for external conductors |
| IEC/TS 61851-3-1 to IEC/TS 61851-3-7 | DC EV supply equipment and communication-related requirements used for charging interfaces |
| IEC/TS 62196-4 | Dimensional compatibility and interchangeability requirements for DC pin and contact-tube accessories |
| EN IEC 62368-1:2024 | Handle strength test reference |
| EN IEC 62840-1 and EN IEC 62840-2 | Battery swap system guidance and safety requirements used where charging or swapping stations are involved |
| EN IEC 63066:- | Docking-connector reference used for connector safety and testing |
| ISO 11451-2 and CISPR 12 | EMC disturbance and emissions requirements |
| ISO 11898-1 | CAN communication layer used for BMS messaging |
| ISO 13063-1 and ISO 13063-3 | Electrical safety and test basis for the isolation and voltage requirements |
| ISO 14229-1 | Diagnostic services used for software and maintenance communication |
| ISO/SAE 21434 | Cybersecurity engineering for the BMS |
What does the FprCEN/TS 18391 document contain?
FprCEN/TS 18391 contains a battery-swapping principle, safety and security requirements, mechanical and electrical requirements, connector specifications, a BMS state machine, and vehicle wake-up behavior. It also includes annexes with dimensions, connector pinout, reference casing details for endurance testing, and the required CAN interface messages and signals.
The document gives figures for the battery form factor, connector location, handle placement, force application, BMS pinout, and state machine. It also gives tables for connector pinout, BMS states, state transitions, CAN messages, and CAN signals.
For design teams, the document is useful as a system interface specification. For test and certification teams, it identifies where to measure mass, fit, force, insulation, EMC, durability, and communication behavior.
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Frequently Asked Questions
FprCEN/TS 18391 is a draft published by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). Its full title is "Road vehicles - Electrically propelled vehicles - Swappable battery system applied to L-category vehicles". This standard covers: This document describes main technical specifications to be considered for ensuring interoperability and compatibility of swappable battery systems for small batteries, at battery-system level, vehicle level and charging-station level. NOTE For specifications at battery system level and charging station level, see also EN IEC 62840 1, IEC 62840 3 and EN 50604 1. The document is applicable to L-category vehicles, although some vehicles included in that category might not fit in terms of power or energy rating. This document focuses on the following aspects that are crucial towards interoperability and compatibility: — electrical specifications; — mechanical specifications; — connector specifications; — BMS and communication protocols; — safety and security specifications (including cybersecurity). The document specifies requirements for the following: — applications with the following numbers and configuration of battery systems; — single (1S1P); — maximum 2 in series – 1 in parallel (2S1P); — maximum 1 in series – 6 in parallel (1S6P); — maximum 2 in series – 2 in parallel (2S2P). — battery-vehicle interface; — battery-charging station interface; — charging station. Interoperability among charging station and operators is not covered in this document.
This document describes main technical specifications to be considered for ensuring interoperability and compatibility of swappable battery systems for small batteries, at battery-system level, vehicle level and charging-station level. NOTE For specifications at battery system level and charging station level, see also EN IEC 62840 1, IEC 62840 3 and EN 50604 1. The document is applicable to L-category vehicles, although some vehicles included in that category might not fit in terms of power or energy rating. This document focuses on the following aspects that are crucial towards interoperability and compatibility: — electrical specifications; — mechanical specifications; — connector specifications; — BMS and communication protocols; — safety and security specifications (including cybersecurity). The document specifies requirements for the following: — applications with the following numbers and configuration of battery systems; — single (1S1P); — maximum 2 in series – 1 in parallel (2S1P); — maximum 1 in series – 6 in parallel (1S6P); — maximum 2 in series – 2 in parallel (2S2P). — battery-vehicle interface; — battery-charging station interface; — charging station. Interoperability among charging station and operators is not covered in this document.
FprCEN/TS 18391 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 43.120 - Electric road vehicles. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
FprCEN/TS 18391 is associated with the following European legislation: EU Directives/Regulations: 2023/1804; Standardization Mandates: M/581. When a standard is cited in the Official Journal of the European Union, products manufactured in conformity with it benefit from a presumption of conformity with the essential requirements of the corresponding EU directive or regulation.
FprCEN/TS 18391 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-november-2026
Cestna vozila – Vozila z električnim pogonom – Sistem zamenljivih akumulatorjev
za vozila kategorije L
Road vehicles - Electrically propelled vehicles - Swappable battery system applied to L-
category vehicles
Straßenfahrzeuge - Elektrisch angetriebene Straßenfahrzeuge - Technische
Spezifikation für Batteriewechselsysteme für Fahrzeuge der Kategorie L
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: FprCEN/TS 18391
ICS:
43.120 Električna cestna vozila Electric road vehicles
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.
FINAL DRAFT
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
SPÉCIFICATION TECHNIQUE
TECHNISCHE SPEZIFIKATION
September 2026
ICS 43.120
English Version
Road vehicles - Electrically propelled vehicles - Swappable
battery system applied to L-category vehicles
Straßenfahrzeuge - Elektrisch angetriebene
Straßenfahrzeuge - Technische Spezifikation für
Batteriewechselsysteme für Fahrzeuge der Kategorie L
This draft Technical Specification is submitted to CEN members for Vote. It has been drawn up by the Technical Committee
CEN/TC 301.
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway,
Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye and
United Kingdom.
Recipients of this draft are invited to submit, with their comments, notification of any relevant patent rights of which they are
aware and to provide supporting documentation.
Warning : This document is not a Technical Specification. It is distributed for review and comments. It is subject to change
without notice and shall not be referred to as a Technical Specification.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG
CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2026 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. FprCEN/TS 18391:2026 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
Contents Page
European foreword . 5
Introduction . 6
1 Scope . 7
2 Normative references . 7
3 Terms and definitions . 9
4 Symbols and abbreviated terms . 10
5 Principle . 10
6 Safety and security specifications . 11
6.1 Electrical specifications . 11
6.1.1 Safety . 11
6.1.2 Electrical insulation performance . 11
6.1.3 Electrical protection . 11
6.1.4 Isolation resistance . 11
6.1.5 Withstand voltage . 11
6.1.6 Safety after crash or accident event . 11
6.2 Functional safety . 11
6.3 Cybersecurity . 12
7 Mechanical specifications . 12
7.1 General. 12
7.2 Mass . 12
7.3 Battery case . 12
7.4 Shape and dimensions . 12
7.5 Handle . 13
7.6 Labelling and marking . 14
7.7 Appearance . 14
7.8 Insertion and removal endurance . 14
7.9 Clamping force . 14
7.10 Durable plugging and unplugging . 15
7.11 Corrosion resistance . 15
7.12 Vibration resistance . 15
7.13 Mechanical shock resistance . 15
7.14 Drop impact resistance . 16
7.15 Thermal shock resistance . 16
7.16 Water resistance (mated) . 16
7.17 Water resistance (unmated) . 16
7.18 Fire resistance . 16
7.19 Overtemperature resistance . 16
7.20 Dewing resistance . 16
7.21 Salt resistance . 17
7.22 Venting valve . 17
7.23 Cooling . 17
7.24 Heating . 17
7.25 Air-tightening . 17
7.26 Mechanical integration and pinout . 17
7.27 Number of pins . 17
7.28 BMS geometry and dimensions . 18
7.29 Multi-battery: position identification and activation . 18
8 Electrical specifications . 19
8.1 BMS voltage supply . 19
8.2 Voltage ratings . 19
8.3 Power discharge . 19
8.4 Discharge ratings . 19
8.5 Charge ratings . 19
8.6 Rated energy. 20
8.7 Self-discharge in vehicle . 20
8.8 Self-discharge (warehouse or transport) . 20
8.9 Battery system cycle life. 20
8.10 Battery system configuration . 20
8.11 Energy efficiency . 20
8.12 Inrush current. 20
8.13 Pre-charge circuit . 21
8.14 Overload protection. 21
8.15 Short-circuit protection. 21
8.16 Electromagnetic compatibility . 21
8.16.1 General . 21
8.16.2 Susceptibility . 21
8.16.3 Emissions . 21
9 Connector specifications . 21
9.1 Principle . 21
9.2 General . 21
9.3 General constructions . 22
9.3.1 General . 22
9.3.2 Pin engagement . 22
9.3.3 Connector architecture . 22
9.3.4 Connector type . 22
9.3.5 Tolerance compensation . 22
9.4 Mechanical performance . 23
9.4.1 Mating and un-mating force . 23
9.4.2 Pin retention force . 23
9.4.3 Mating cycles . 23
9.4.4 Mechanical vibration . 23
9.4.5 Mechanical shock . 23
9.4.6 Mating cycles and misuse conditions . 23
9.4.7 Resistance to ageing of rubber and thermoplastic materials . 23
9.5 Electrical performance . 23
9.5.1 Contact resistance . 23
9.5.2 Insulation resistance . 23
9.5.3 Withstanding voltage . 24
9.5.4 Temperature rise . 24
9.5.5 Climatic endurance for contacts . 24
9.5.6 Protection against electrical shock . 24
9.6 Environmental performance . 24
9.6.1 Thermal cycling . 24
9.6.2 Heat resistance . 24
9.6.3 Cold resistance . 24
9.6.4 Humidity . 24
9.6.5 Corrosion . 25
9.6.6 Resistance to ageing of rubber and thermoplastic material . 25
9.7 Safety performance . 25
9.7.1 General. 25
9.7.2 IP rating . 25
9.7.3 Resistance to heat, to fire and to tracking . 25
10 State machine specifications. 25
10.1 General. 25
10.2 Software . 28
10.2.1 Consolidated communication protocol and messages . 28
10.2.2 Reprogramming function . 28
11 Vehicle management system or vehicle control unit (CAN wake-up) . 28
Annex A (normative) Swappable battery system dimensions . 29
Annex B (normative) Interface communication requirements . 33
Bibliography . 67
European foreword
This document (FprCEN/TS 18391:2026) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 301 “Road
vehicles”, the secretariat of which is held by DIN.
This document is currently submitted to the CEN Vote on TS.
This document has been prepared under a standardization request addressed to CEN by the European
Commission. The Standing Committee of the EFTA States subsequently approves these requests for its
Member States.
Introduction
For industry and commerce, SME’s and the labour within these companies, this document will help in
developing and implementing unified solutions for swappable batteries in the context of L-categories of
vehicles, that will ensure interoperable and compatible products, which optimized investment and
operational costs, maintenance and repairs. This document will be relevant in optimizing secondary life
applications as well as end of life of the batteries with dismantling, separating and recycling components,
and, thus, contributes to EU circular economy strategy and objectives.
For academic and research bodies this document will help setting and scoping future research in general.
For consumers/users, it will give choice of purchasing different L-cat vehicles models and brands,
ensuring utilization of same swappable batteries systems, thanks to compatibility and interoperability
from the compliance with this document.
In Figure 1 an example of a battery swapping environment is shown, including electric scooter,
swappable battery, charging station and external server interface.
Figure 1 — Battery swapping environment
1 Scope
This document describes main technical specifications to be considered for ensuring interoperability and
compatibility of swappable battery systems for small batteries, at battery-system level, vehicle level and
charging-station level.
NOTE For specifications at battery system level and charging station level, see also EN IEC 62840-1,
IEC 62840-3 and EN 50604-1.
The document is applicable to L-category vehicles, although some vehicles included in that category
might not fit in terms of power or energy rating.
This document focuses on the following aspects that are crucial towards interoperability and
compatibility:
— electrical specifications;
— mechanical specifications;
— connector specifications;
— BMS and communication protocols;
— safety and security specifications (including cybersecurity).
The document specifies requirements for the following:
— applications with the following numbers and configuration of battery systems;
— single (1S1P);
— maximum 2 in series – 1 in parallel (2S1P);
— maximum 1 in series – 6 in parallel (1S6P);
— maximum 2 in series – 2 in parallel (2S2P).
— battery-vehicle interface;
— battery-charging station interface;
— charging station.
Interoperability among charging station and operators is not covered in this document.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 50604-1:2016 , Secondary lithium batteries for light EV (electric vehicle) applications — Part 1:
General safety requirements and test method — Amendment 1
As impacted by EN 50604-1:2016/A1:2021 and EN 50604-1:2016/A2
EN 60335-1, Household and similar electrical appliances — Safety — Part 1: General requirements
(IEC 60335-1)
EN ISO 7010:2020, Graphical symbols — Safety colours and safety signs — Registered safety signs
(ISO 7010:2016, Corrected version 2020-06)
EN ISO 18243:2025, Electrically propelled mopeds and motorcycles — Test specifications and safety
requirements for lithium-ion battery systems (ISO 18243:2025)
EN IEC 60309-4, Plugs, fixed or portable socket-outlets and appliance inlets for industrial purposes —
Part 4: Switched socket-outlets with or without interlock (IEC 60309-4)
IEC/TS 61851-3-1, Electric vehicle conductive charging system — Part 3-1: DC EV supply equipment where
protection relies on double or reinforced insulation — General rules and requirements for stationary
equipment
IEC/TS 61851-3-2, Electric vehicle conductive charging system — Part 3-2: DC EV supply equipment where
protection relies on double or reinforced insulation — Particular requirements for portable and mobile
equipment
IEC/TS 61851-3-4, Electric vehicles conductive charging system — Part 3-4: DC EV supply equipment where
protection relies on double or reinforced insulation — General definitions and requirements for CANopen
communication
IEC/TS 61851-3-5, Electric vehicles conductive charging system — Part 3-5: DC EV supply equipment where
protection relies on double or reinforced insulation — Pre-defined communication parameters and general
application objects
IEC/TS 61851-3-6, Electric vehicles conductive charging system — Part 3-6: DC EV supply equipment where
protection relies on double or reinforced insulation — Voltage converter unit communication
IEC/TS 61851-3-7, Electric vehicles conductive charging system — Part 3-7: DC EV supply equipment where
protection relies on double or reinforced insulation — Battery system communication
IEC/TS 62196-4, Plugs, socket-outlets, vehicle connectors and vehicle inlets — Conductive charging of
electric vehicles — Part 4: Dimensional compatibility and interchangeability requirements for DC pin and
contact-tube accessories for Class II or Class III applications
EN IEC 62368-1:2024, Audio/video, information and communication technology equipment — Part 1:
Safety requirements (IEC 62368-1:2023)
EN IEC 62840-1, Electric vehicle battery swap system — Part 1: General and guidance (IEC 62840-1)
EN IEC 62840-2, Electric vehicle battery swap system — Part 2: Safety requirements (IEC 62840-2)
EN IEC 63066:— , Low-voltage docking connectors for removable energy storage units (IEC 63066)
ISO 11451-2, Road vehicles — Vehicle test methods for electrical disturbances from narrowband radiated
electromagnetic energy — Part 2: Off-vehicle radiation sources
Under preparation. Stage at the time of preparation: FprEN IEC 63066:2026
ISO 11898-1, Road vehicles — Controller area network (CAN) — Part 1: Data link layer and physical coding
sublayer
ISO 13063-1, Electrically propelled mopeds and motorcycles — Safety specifications — Part 1: On-board
rechargeable energy storage system (RESS)
ISO 13063-3, Electrically propelled mopeds and motorcycles — Safety specifications — Part 3: Electrical
safety
ISO 14229-1, Road vehicles — Unified diagnostic services (UDS) — Part 1: Application layer
ISO/SAE 21434, Road vehicles — Cybersecurity engineering
CISPR 12, Vehicles, boats and devices with internal combustion engines or traction batteries – Radio
disturbance characteristics – Limits and methods of measurement for the protection of off-board receivers
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp/
— IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/
3.1
battery system
energy storage device that includes cells or cell assemblies or common-us battery pack(s) as well as
electrical circuits and electronics (e.g. BCU (battery control unit), contactors)
Note 1 to entry: For further explanation, see IEC 62840-1 and ISO 12405-4.
[SOURCE: ISO 18243:2025, 3.4]
3.2
charge rate
electric current at which a battery is charged
C
r
Note 1 to entry: The charge rate is expressed as the reference current I = where Cr is the rated capacity
t
n
declared by the manufacturer and n is the time base in hours for which the rated capacity is declared.
3.3
compatibility
capability of swappable battery systems to meet the requirements of battery swap stations and vehicles
to transfer energy and exchange data without appreciable modifications and any undesirable
consequences of unpredictable shortage of performance
3.4
discharge rate
electric current at which a battery is discharged
Note 1 to entry: The discharge rate is calculated as the rated capacity divided by the corresponding discharge time
which results in an electric current.
3.5
interface communication
capability of the on-board battery system of exchanging information through electrical/software
communication with external interfaces of the swappable battery system and other functions to meet the
interoperability and compatibility during life cycle
3.6
interoperability
capability to transfer power and / or data among various swappable battery systems, vehicles and battery
swap stations, without requiring modifications, special interfaces or conversion hardware
3.7
live part
conductor or conductive part intended to be electrically energized in normal use
3.8
small battery
battery with a gross mass of not more than 12 kg
[SOURCE: IEC 62281:2019, definition 3.27]
4 Symbols and abbreviated terms
For the purposes of this document, the following symbols and abbreviations apply:
ASIL automotive safety integrity level
BMS battery management system
DUT device under test
EOL end of life
REESS rechargeable electric energy storage system
RT room temperature
SEooC safety element out of context
SoC state of charge
SoH state of health
5 Principle
In operation, for users, this means:
— Any battery which complies with this document can be used in any vehicle which complies with this
document.
— Any battery which can be charged within any charging station (independently by the economical
energetic operator) or with any charging device which complies with this document. If specific
requirements for the charging stations are needed, see applicable standards such as EN IEC 62840-1.
— Any battery which complies with this document can be used in parallel or serial connection within a
“vehicle” with any other battery which complies with this document (e.g. with limitations/ranges as
expected to be specified in the swappable battery system standard, max. number of batteries
connected in serial configuration).
— Any battery which can be recharged “simultaneously” with any other battery which complies with
this document, in a multi-battery charging device which complies with this document.
6 Safety and security specifications
6.1 Electrical specifications
6.1.1 Safety
The swappable battery system shall comply with voltage class A safety requirements as defined in
ISO 13063-3.
The swappable battery system designed for 2S1P or 2S2P configuration shall comply with voltage class B
safety requirements as defined in ISO 13063-3.
6.1.2 Electrical insulation performance
Decrease of performance or personal burns caused by excessive temperature rise shall be avoided.
Temperature rise of terminals for external conductors shall be conducted according to EN IEC 60309-4.
The other parts of the system shall meet the requirements of EN 60335-1, with 1,06 times rated voltage.
6.1.3 Electrical protection
The swappable battery system shall comply with all electrical protection requirements as defined in
EN ISO 18243.
6.1.4 Isolation resistance
Exposed conductive parts of the swappable battery system shall be designed according to ISO 13063-3.
All components forming the equipotential bonding current path (conductors, connections) shall
withstand the maximum current in a single fault condition.
The resistance of the equipotential bonding path between any two of these exposed conductive parts of
the swappable battery system that can be touched simultaneously by a person shall not exceed 0,1 Ω.
Galvanic isolation is required between the swappable battery system enclosure and the internal live
parts.
The creepage distance and clearance shall be according to ISO 13063-3.
The isolation resistance test shall be conducted in accordance with ISO 13063-1 and ISO 13063-3. The
test should be conducted between conductors and compartment, or between conductors and shielding
layer of the battery swapping connector.
6.1.5 Withstand voltage
The voltage resistance test shall be conducted in accordance with ISO 13063-1 and ISO 13063-3. The test
should be conducted between conductors and compartment, or between conductors and shielding layer
of the battery swapping connector.
6.1.6 Safety after crash or accident event
Negative events, like accident or crash shall be recorder in the non-volatile memory. The information
about the event can also be created by vehicle.
6.2 Functional safety
Appropriate functional safety standards for the swappable battery system shall be considered for the
specific project.
However, it is highly recommended the application of a functional safety process which complies with
ISO 26262-12 considering at least ASIL B for the safety relevant BMS functions (as SEooC).
6.3 Cybersecurity
The BMS shall be protected against cyberattacks in accordance with ISO/SAE 21434.
7 Mechanical specifications
7.1 General
The accuracy of measured values shall be within the tolerances, relative to the specified values stated in
Table 1.
Table 1 — Mechanical requirements
Parameter Value Unit
Mass ±1,0 % kg
Length ±1,0 % m
7.2 Mass
The mass of the battery system shall not exceed 12 kg. This requirement is to ensure easy handling by
the user. An LMT battery is defined as a light means of transport battery, a battery that is sealed and
weighs 25 kg or less.
NOTE IEC 62281 defines a “large battery” as any battery with a mass exceeding 12 kg.”
7.3 Battery case
The battery case, which may be made of polymer, aluminium or steel, shall include all the components of
the battery system. No external components (e.g. external BMS) shall be admitted.
The battery system shall be sealed with minimum IP grade of the swappable battery when the connector
is both mated and unmated shall be IP65. This specification shall be guaranteed for the entire life of the
battery.
The battery locking mechanism (device to ensure the lock of the battery in place) shall belong to the
vehicle.
The battery bay (battery dock) belongs to the vehicle and, during battery insertion, shall guarantee a
sufficient reaction force to ensure connector mating without battery dock base bending.
7.4 Shape and dimensions
The swappable battery system shall be a rectangular prism designed for safe and effective manual
handling, with a connector installed on the bottom surface. See Figure 2 for the specific dimensions.
The swappable battery system shall include a handle on the top surface for ease of handling, within the
limited height dimension.
The shape shall be in accordance with Figure 2.
Shape dimensions shall be in accordance with Annex A, A.1.
Figure 2 — Overall dimensions
Specific dimensions shall be in accordance with A.1.
The bottom part of the battery (opposite to the handlebar) shall include the female connector in its centre,
see Figure 3.
Figure 3 — Battery bottom side with female connector
Specific dimensions shall be in accordance with A.1.
7.5 Handle
Essential features shall include a handle, typically located on the top surface or another surface
depending upon the swapping direction, to facilitate easy insertion and removal.
The handle shall withstand a force not less than the product design tension or 3 times the weight of the
battery system, as specified in EN IEC 62368-1:2024, 8.8.
The test method shall be carried out in accordance with EN IEC 62368-1:2024.
Handle dimensions shall be in accordance with A.1.
If the swappable battery system can be moved/removed from an L-category vehicle /charging station by
hand or with the assistance of an installation/device (HBS), the charging of swappable battery system
shall be in accordance with the EN IEC 62840-1, EN IEC 62840-2 and EN IEC 63066.
7.6 Labelling and marking
The labels and marking shall be printed or engraved visibly, legibly and indelibly on the battery.
Safety symbols shall be in accordance with EN ISO 7010:2020.
7.7 Appearance
For safety intent, the battery system shall remain integer from deformation, distortion, leakage during
the normal use in its lifespan. If any deformation, or distortion, or leakage is identified, the battery system
shall be classified as “battery presenting a risk”.
The external surfaces of the battery system shall remain free from visible distortion, cracks, fluid leakage,
and significant discoloration that could compromise safety or obscure marking throughout the course of
their ordinary use service life as swappable units.
7.8 Insertion and removal endurance
Battery systems, which may be made of polymer, aluminium, or steel, shall withstand repeated insertion
and removal from the vehicle and charging station.
The battery systems shall remain integer and not exhibit any deformation, dents, or breakage after
10 000 insertion and removal cycles.
Swappable battery systems shall withstand repeated insertions and removals from the vehicle and
charging station both vertical or horizontal ones.
Battery shall be tested in a reference case with the minimum distances in accordance with A.1.2.
Case material shall be made of plastic. Metal could be used as alternative material.
7.9 Clamping force
The battery system shall present areas in the top surface to withstand a tensile force of 500 N in the
direction of its installation or removal, without presenting battery system deformation or damage, see
Figure 4.
Figure 4 — Battery top side with handlebar and load areas for applying clamping force
Specific dimensions shall be in accordance with A.1.
7.10 Durable plugging and unplugging
The male part (battery system) of the battery swapping connector shall sustain 10 000 cycles of
plugging/unplugging operation at least.
The female part (vehicle) of the battery swapping connector shall sustain 5 000 cycles of
plugging/unplugging operation at least.
After the test, there shall be in normal working condition without serious damage, withstand voltage and
insulation resistance performance should be met.
7.11 Corrosion resistance
The battery system's exterior, which may be made of polymer, aluminium or steel, shall be resistant to
corrosion. All the metal parts, including the enclosure, shall have adequate rust protection.
While no specific test method is required, using IP67 accessories conforming to IEC 60529 is
recommended to protect electrical components in corrosive environments.
7.12 Vibration resistance
The battery system shall be resistant to vibrations during the entire lifespan.
The test method and evaluation criteria shall be in accordance with the vibration test in
EN ISO 18243:2025, 8.1.
7.13 Mechanical shock resistance
The battery system shall withstand mechanical shocks that may occur during its lifespan.
The test method and evaluation criteria shall be in accordance with the mechanical shock test in
EN ISO 18243:2025, 8.2.
7.14 Drop impact resistance
The battery system shall withstand impacts from accidental drops that may occur during battery
swapping or maintenance or handling.
The test method and evaluation criteria shall be in accordance with the drop test in EN ISO 18243:2025,
8.3.
7.15 Thermal shock resistance
The battery system shall withstand thermal loads, including rapid temperature changes.
The test method and evaluation criteria shall be in accordance with the thermal shock test in
EN ISO 18243:2025, 8.4.
7.16 Water resistance (mated)
The mated battery system shall withstand immersion in water, simulating potential flooding conditions.
The test method and evaluation criteria shall be in accordance with the water immersion test in
EN ISO 18243:2025, 8.5.
Test shall be executed after completion of 7.8, Insertion and removal endurance, in accordance with
EN ISO 18243:2025, 8.5
7.17 Water resistance (unmated)
The unmated battery system shall withstand water splash.
The test method and evaluation criteria shall be in accordance with the water immersion test in
EN ISO 18243:2025, 8.5.
Test shall be executed after completion of 7.8, Insertion and removal endurance, in accordance with
EN ISO 18243:2025, 8.5.
7.18 Fire resistance
The battery system shall withstand exposure to fire and prevent fire propagation in the event of a fire in
the electric motorcycle or moped or its surroundings.
The test method and evaluation criteria shall be in accordance with the fire test in EN ISO 18243:2025,
8.6.
This requirement shall apply to battery systems used on electric mopeds or motorcycles with a passenger
compartment only.
7.19 Overtemperature resistance
The battery system shall withstand overtemperature conditions, validating the function of internal
overheating protection measures, if applicable.
The test method and evaluation criteria shall be in accordance with the overtemperature condition test
in EN ISO 18243:2025, 8.7.
7.20 Dewing resistance
The battery system (mated or unmated) shall withstand conditions of high ambient humidity and
condensation.
The test method and evaluation criteria shall be in accordance with the dewing test in
EN ISO 18243:2025, 8.11.
7.21 Salt resistance
The battery system (mated or unmated) shall withstand exposure to salt mist conditions, simulating
coastal or winter road environments.
The test method and evaluation criteria shall be in accordance with the salt spray test as shown in
EN ISO 18243:2025, 8.12.
7.22 Venting valve
Specific venting valve requirements are out of scope of this document.
7.23 Cooling
Specific cooling requirements are out of scope of this document.
7.24 Heating
The battery system shall guarantee the charge current ratings indicated in 8.5 without any external and
specific heating system.
7.25 Air-tightening
The battery system shall guarantee the air-tightening (measured at EOL) for the entire life of the battery
system.
Battery supplier shall specify measurement test method and setup.
7.26 Mechanical integration and pinout
The BMS shall be integrated within the battery case and shall fit within the battery case. No external BMS
admitted.
BMS shall be capable to operate in the following and alternative multi-batteries configurations:
— 1SxP (x:1-6)
— 2S1P
— 2S2P
7.27 Number of pins
The BMS shall manage the pi
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