Explaining the Different Types of EV Charging Connectors
As electric vehicles (EVs) gain popularity, understanding the different types of charging connectors has become essential for EV owners and prospective buyers. The connectors used in EV charging are not universal, and they vary based on factors such as the vehicle manufacturer, charging speed, and region. In this blog, we'll explore the various EV charging connector types and help you understand which one is best for your electric vehicle.
1. Type 1 (SAE J1772)
Type 1 is a single-phase connector used primarily in North America and Japan, though it can also be found in some UK imports. It is commonly associated with slower AC charging and is considered outdated in many parts of Europe, where the preference is shifting towards Type 2 connectors.
Features of Type 1:
- Charging Speed: Typically limited to 7.4 kW AC, making it slower than newer standards.
- Usage: Mostly used in early EV models like the Nissan Leaf.
- Compatibility: Limited in Europe, as the UK and EU markets lean towards Type 2.
2. Type 2 (Mennekes)
The Type 2 connector is the most common charging connector in the UK and Europe. It supports both single-phase and three-phase charging, making it versatile and future-proof.
Features of Type 2:
- Charging Speed: Supports up to 22 kW in AC charging at home and up to 43 kW in public charging stations.
- Usage: Found in most European EVs, including the BMW i3, Audi e-tron, and Tesla (with an adapter).
- Compatibility: Widely used in home and public charging points across the UK.
Type 2 connectors are also the standard for many public AC charging stations, and most European EVs are equipped with this connector. Its ability to handle three-phase power makes it ideal for faster home charging setups.
3. Combined Charging System (CCS)
CCS is an evolution of the Type 2 connector, designed to support both AC and DC charging in one system. The top portion of the CCS connector resembles a standard Type 2, but the bottom includes two additional pins for high-speed DC charging. This means drivers can use the same port for both slow home charging and fast public charging.
Features of CCS:
- Charging Speed: Capable of up to 350 kW DC charging in some cases.
- Usage: Increasingly common in newer EV models, including the Volkswagen ID.3 and the Jaguar I-Pace.
- Compatibility: Fast becoming the universal connector for rapid DC charging across Europe and the UK.
4. CHAdeMO
CHAdeMO is a fast DC charging connector originally developed in Japan and commonly found on Japanese EVs like the Nissan Leaf. Although it was once one of the most popular fast charging connectors, its usage has been declining in favour of CCS.
Features of CHAdeMO:
- Charging Speed: Typically offers up to 100 kW DC charging.
- Usage: Mostly seen in older EV models and certain public fast-charging stations.
- Compatibility: Limited compared to CCS, with many newer stations favouring CCS instead.
One unique advantage of CHAdeMO is its ability to support bi-directional charging, meaning the car can both receive and supply power back to the grid or home. However, as more manufacturers shift towards CCS, CHAdeMO’s future in Europe appears limited.
5. Tesla Supercharger (NACS in USA)
Tesla vehicles in the UK and Europe typically use a modified Type 2 connector for both AC and DC charging. Tesla’s proprietary Supercharger network uses this connector to deliver some of the fastest DC charging speeds available.
Features of Tesla Supercharger:
- Charging Speed: Tesla Superchargers can deliver up to 250 kW DC charging, making them among the fastest in the world.
- Usage: Exclusively for Tesla vehicles, although the company has announced plans to open up its Supercharger network to non-Tesla EVs.
- Compatibility: Currently limited to Tesla, though future updates may expand access to other vehicles via adapters.
Conclusion
Understanding the different types of EV charging connectors is essential to ensure compatibility with charging stations and to optimise your charging experience. In the UK, the Type 2 and CCS connectors dominate, offering a balance between AC home charging and DC fast charging. While older connectors like CHAdeMO still exist, the market is clearly moving towards more versatile options like CCS. Whether you're charging at home or on the go, knowing your connector type will help make your EV experience smoother and more efficient.