Mixed Deck — All EVITP Topics Flashcards

Which federal program provides funding for EV charging infrastructure in the United States?

Answer: The Alternative Fuel Corridor Program

The Alternative Fuel Corridor Program, administered by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), is a key federal initiative in the United States. It designates national EV charging corridors and provides funding to states for the deployment of EV charging and alternative fueling infrastructure along major roadways. This program aims to build out a comprehensive national network of charging stations.

What is the purpose of the 'heartbeat' message in the OCPP protocol?

Answer: To confirm the charging station is online and maintain its connection to the central system

The heartbeat message is sent periodically by the charging station to the central system to confirm it is still connected and operational, similar to a keep-alive signal.

What ADA requirements apply to EV charger installations?

Answer: Accessible route, reach ranges, maneuvering space, signage

Accessibility standards ensure all people can use charging equipment.

Which protocol is most commonly used for communication between EV charging stations and a central management system?

Answer: OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol)

OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol) is the industry-standard open protocol used for communication between EV charging stations and back-end management systems.

What does the term 'Alternative Fuel Corridor' (AFC) designation mean in the context of NEVI funding eligibility?

Answer: A federally designated highway segment identified by FHWA for alternative fuel infrastructure

AFCs are segments of the National Highway System designated by FHWA as priority routes for alternative fuel infrastructure deployment.

What wire sizing factors apply to EV charging?

Answer: Continuous load rating, voltage drop, ambient temperature, conduit fill

Multiple factors beyond just current draw affect wire sizing.

What are outdoor EV charger installation requirements?

Answer: Weather-rated enclosures, proper drainage, GFCI, weather-resistant conduit

Outdoor installations need specific weather protection.

Which component in an EVSE is responsible for communicating charging status and current capacity to the vehicle?

Answer: The pilot circuit

The pilot circuit (Control Pilot) is the signal line that communicates charging state and current capacity between the EVSE and the vehicle.

Which type of EV connector includes both AC and DC charging capability in a single inlet on the vehicle side in North America?

Answer: Combined Charging System (CCS) Combo 1

The CCS Combo 1 connector (SAE J1772 + DC pins) allows a single vehicle inlet to accept both AC Level 2 and DC fast charging through one combined port.

A site survey reveals underground utilities crossing the planned trench route for EVSE conduit. What is the required first step before excavation?

Answer: Call 811 (Call Before You Dig) for utility locates

Calling 811 before digging is federally mandated to locate buried utilities and prevent dangerous strikes.

A charging station displays only a QR code for starting a session. Why does this present a user experience accessibility barrier?

Answer: Users without smartphones or with visual impairments cannot initiate charging

Sole reliance on QR codes excludes users who lack smartphones, have visual impairments, or have motor difficulties that prevent camera use.

What is proper EV charger mounting height?

Answer: Connector and controls between 24-48 inches above grade

The height range considers usability and accessibility.

Under current IRS rules, which residential EV charger tax credit is available to individual homeowners under the Inflation Reduction Act?

Answer: Section 30C — 30% credit up to $1,000 per item

Section 30C provides individual homeowners a 30% tax credit on EVSE installation costs, capped at $1,000 per item for personal-use property.

What are the main types of EV batteries?

Answer: Lithium-ion (Li-ion) in various chemistries like NMC, LFP, and NCA

Modern EVs primarily use lithium-ion batteries in various chemical compositions.

What is demand charge management in the context of EV charging installations?

Answer: Strategies to reduce peak power draw and associated utility demand charges

Demand charge management involves controlling charging loads to minimize peak demand and reduce utility demand charges for site owners.

What minimum power output per port is required for NEVI-funded DC fast chargers?

Answer: 150 kW

NEVI standards require each DCFC port to provide a minimum of 150 kW of power output to qualify for federal funding.

How is a software fault on a networked EVSE typically resolved first?

Answer: Remote firmware update or local reset procedure

Many networked EVSE units support remote firmware updates or local resets to clear software faults without requiring physical component replacement.

What is the purpose of the contactor in a DC fast charging station?

Answer: Isolate high-voltage DC from the output connector when not charging

The contactor is a high-current switch that physically connects or disconnects the DC bus from the charging connector, ensuring safety when the connector is not engaged.

What is the typical range of a modern EV?

Answer: 200-300+ miles on a full charge depending on battery size and efficiency

Modern EVs offer practical ranges that meet most daily driving needs.

An EV charging station error message reads: 'ERR_AUTH_FAIL_0x4C.' Which UX best practice has been violated?

Answer: Error messages should use plain language and actionable instructions instead of codes

Plain-language error messages that tell users what went wrong and what to do next (e.g., 'Card not accepted — try a different card or call support') follow UX best practices.