What are the EV Charger Connector Types?
Different Electric Vehicles use different connectors based on manufacturer - and public chargers accommodate them all where possible.
The 3 most common plug types in Europe are the Type 2, CCS and CHAdeMO.
The Type 2 is the standard cable most electric vehicle owners keep in their car, and is used to connect to AC chargers with charging speeds of up to 43 kW (400 V, 63 A, AC). So what are the others, exactly?
Most "destination" chargers in public places are equipped with a type 2 socket. The CCS is an enhanced version of the Type 2, which enables rapid charging and supports both AC and DC charging. The CHAdeMO plug was developed in Japan, and facilitates rapid DC charging. The appropriate plug types for each electric vehicle will be included in manufacturer literature.
It is also easy to figure out thanks to the differing shape and appearance of each plug. Much like the differently sized petrol and diesel nozzles to prevent misfuelling of ICE vehicles, the sockets and plugs should only connect to their appropriate counterpart.
- Mostly found in North America
- Used for home charging on AC electricity supplies
- Mostly found in Europe
- Used for home charging on AC electricity supplies
- Specific to Tesla Model S and Model X
- Permits rapid DC charging
- Combined with either a Type 2 or Type 1 socket
- Permits rapid DC charging
This connector type can seem confusing at first.
Manufacturers that permit CCS for their new models: BMW, Daimler, FCA, Ford, Jaguar, General Motors, Groupe PSA, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, MG, Polestar, Renault, Tesla, Tata Motors and Volkswagen Group.
For a rapid charge, use a tethered Combo 2 plug.