Mode 3 charging

IEC 61851-1 charging mode covering AC charging via a dedicated EV chargepoint with full safety signalling — the standard for UK home and workplace charging.

Mode 3 is the IEC 61851-1 charging mode covering AC charging via a dedicated chargepoint. It uses the Control Pilot signal to handshake between car and charger, negotiating maximum current and managing safety isolation. All UK home and workplace EV chargers operate in Mode 3.

Modes 1 and 2 are slow domestic-socket charging (the "granny lead") and are not permitted as a primary charging method under most household insurance policies and not eligible for any grant. Mode 4 is DC fast charging (50kW+).

Mode 3 chargers must comply with BS 7671 18th Edition Amendment 2 (specifically Section 722) which mandates Type B RCD protection or a Type A RCD plus DC residual current detection in the charger itself. CCS exclusively installs Mode 3 chargers compliant with these regulations. See our EV charger installation page.