EV charging: the different types of connection

If you plan to charge your electric vehicle at home, at work, or at public charging stations, it is essential to ensure that the charging station's connection is compatible with your vehicle's charging port. Specifically, the charging cable must feature the correct plug configuration on both ends. While this compatibility is straightforward, it is crucial; using the wrong plug will prevent you from charging your vehicle. Fortunately, there are adapters available to bridge different connections if needed.

Type 1 and Type 2 Plugs for AC Charging

Charging connections come in four variations: two are designated for alternating current (AC) capable of charging up to 43 kW, and the other two are for direct current (DC) charging, which can theoretically enable fast charging up to 350 kW.

When it comes to AC charging, there are two standard plug types. Type 1 is a single-phase plug prevalent in electric vehicles (EVs) and early plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) from the American and Asian markets. It typically supports a charging rate of about 3.7 kW, although the maximum output can reach 11 kW.

In contrast, Type 2 plugs facilitate higher current flow through three-phase systems, allowing for a maximum of 43 kW. Most home connections offer a maximum charging speed of 11 kW, while certain public charging stations can provide up to 22 kW, contingent on whether the vehicle can support such a rate.

The Two Types of Plugs for DC Charging

DC charging involves two types of connectors. The first is the CHAdeMO plug, developed in Japan for fast charging. This system allows for high-speed charging and supports bi-directional charging capabilities. It's worth noting that bi-directional home chargers are becoming more prevalent. Many Asian car manufacturers offer electric vehicles compatible with CHAdeMO. The maximum charging rate for this connector is often around 100 kW, and vehicles equipped with a CHAdeMO connector usually also have a separate AC charging connection.

Then there is the CCS (Combined Charging System) plug, an enhanced version of the Type 2 plug featuring additional power contacts for fast charging. The CCS plug enables both AC and DC charging, eliminating the need for separate connections, as is the case with CHAdeMO. CCS offers notably higher charging speeds, with the latest Hyundai and Kia models, alongside the Porsche Taycan and Audi e-tron GT, achieving rates between 200 and 300 kW. Currently, CCS is capable of delivering up to 350 kW to an electric vehicle.

Fixed Cable Charging Options

In Europe, Type 2 AC chargers with a three-phase plug are the standard for most charging stations. However, some stations come equipped with a fixed cable, which can be advantageous in scenarios where the same vehicle is consistently charged, like at home or a dedicated workplace parking spot. The benefit here is the convenience of not needing to carry a cable in your vehicle. When utilizing a public charging station with a fixed cable, always verify that the cable is compatible with your car's charging port.

Usage Examples

Consider two scenarios: if you reside in Europe and own a European brand vehicle, such as the Renault ZOE, you can charge at a public station using a Type 2 charging cable with Type 2 plugs on either end, supporting a maximum of 22 kW – this aligns perfectly with the Renault ZOE's capabilities for AC charging.

Conversely, if you own an Asian car like the Nissan LEAF in Europe, you will require a cable that links the Type 2 of the charging station to the Type 1 socket of your vehicle (Type 2 to Type 1). In this setup, the maximum charging speed will be 7.4 kW.

It's essential to select charging cables with the appropriate plugs for your needs, ensuring you have the right fit for your electric vehicle.

If you’re preparing to buy or lease your first electric vehicle (EV), understanding how to charge it is crucial, which type of connector to use, and identifying the best chargers for your situation. Our comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know...

Initially, various connectors, sockets, and chargers can appear overwhelming compared to the simplicity of refueling a gasoline or diesel vehicle. Charging at home can streamline the process, whereas relying on public networks for long journeys may present challenges.

This complexity may feel daunting; however, once you establish a routine, it becomes more manageable. The public charging infrastructure is improving constantly, and the types of EV plugs are gradually standardizing, simplifying the process.

Electric vehicle chargers fall into categories such as ultra-rapid, rapid, fast, and slow based on their charging speeds. This guide clarifies the different types of electric car plug types, EV connector types, and associated charging cables, helping you determine the specific options suitable for your requirements.

Quick Reference to Common EV Connectors

Type 1: Commonly found on older electric vehicles like the early Nissan Leaf, typically including an adapter for compatibility with Type 2.

Type 2: This is the standard connector for the majority of electric cars sold in the UK, utilized for both slow and fast AC charging.

CHAdeMO: Utilized by some EVs like the Nissan Leaf, but gradually phased out on newer Nissan models.

CCS Combo Type 1: Rarely found in the UK and Europe, mainly used in North America and Asian markets.

CCS Combo Type 2: The preferred connector type for the rapid (DC) charging of most electric vehicles sold in the UK.

For more information, please visit Ac Type 2 Ev Charger.