Tesla's Model S connector is extremely similar to the SAE DC standard
Not true at all. The SAE J1772 Combo system uses separate pins for DC and AC, whereas Tesla's shares DC and AC. The signalling and protocol are also totally different as well.
(makes sense since the Model S connector is so similar to the J1772 AC connector).
The Model S connector shares signalling with J1772, but the physical connector is quite different. The current-carrying pins on the Model S connector are massive, many times the amperage, and are of a coaxial design.
I anticipate a SAE DC adapter will be around the same as the J1772 adapter (size/usage/price).
Way off again. Connector materials alone when we get up into the hundreds of amps range goes WAY up. Then there is a need for a protocol codec, as the 2 protocols are very different.
The EU already threw down the gauntlet and said they will only support IEC standards (which CHAdeMO isn't, but the Combo plug is)
CHAdeMO has worked hard to get their system ratified as an international standard, and it is in the final stages of becoming a global standard. IEC 62196-3 is expected to ratify this coming December containing CHAdeMO.
You will not need to pay anyone a license to use CHAdeMO once it becomes a standard.
-Phil
- - - Updated - - -
Well, I've personally had discussions with "really smart guys" with beau coup experience with this stuff, and they all assure me that the technical challenges are straight forward.
I agree!
The problem for either myself, or anybody else, to pursue this is that IF Tesla builds one and it sells for $299, there is just NO WAY that some start up could compete.
I don't see Tesla selling an adapter for $299. A silly Roadster to Model S adapter is $650, and that's just a couple of connectors and some wire. I don't see them selling a CHAdeMO adapter for less than $1500, and it may very well be over 2 kilobucks if they ever even bother.
Hardware wise, the biggest expense is the CHAdeMO inlet, unless you're willing to try to manufacture one yourself, it's a very pricey bit. The Model S connector isn't peanuts either, the cheapest I've seen it can be had for is $650.
I can most definitely build the entire electronics package for less than any one connector, so right now the biggest stumbling block is that exorbitant connector cost. In order to even consider this project, I'd need to have a minimum of 20 people willing to pay at least $1k each over the connector costs. If someone can put that together and secure a source for the connectors, I can build them.
Another possibility is to forego the Model-S connector and just install it into the car, while cheaper, I don't see many people wanting to take this plunge.
-Phil