Which connector types are there?

Explore the different connector types for charging stations

E-mobility is gaining increasing importance, and with it comes the need to understand the various connector types used for charging electric vehicles (EVs). These connector types vary by region, vehicle type, and charging speed. In this article, we will take a look at the most common connector types and their characteristics.

1. Type 1 (SAE J1772)

• Region: North America and Japan
• Charging Power: Up to 7.4 kW (single-phase)
• Usage: Mainly for older electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids
• Description: The Type 1 connector, also known as J1772, is a single-phase connector mainly used in North America and Japan. It is suitable for alternating current (AC) charging and provides a charging power of up to 7.4 kW.

2. Type 2 (IEC 62196)

• Region: Europe
• Charging Power: Up to 22 kW (single-phase), up to 43 kW (three-phase)
• Usage: Widely used in Europe for EVs and plug-in hybrids
• Description: The Type 2 connector is the standard connector in Europe and supports both single-phase and three-phase charging. With a charging power of up to 22 kW in single-phase operation and up to 43 kW in three-phase operation, it is versatile and can be found in many public and private charging stations.

3. Combined Charging System (CCS)

• Region: Global
• Charging Power: Up to 350 kW (DC)
• Usage: Modern EVs for fast charging
• Description: The Combined Charging System (CCS) combines the Type 2 connector with two additional direct current (DC) pins for fast charging. It enables both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) charging with very high power, which is particularly important for long-distance travel and quick recharging on the go.

4. CHAdeMO

• Region: Global, especially in Japan
• Charging Power: Up to 100 kW (DC), future versions up to 400 kW
• Usage: Older and some modern Japanese EVs
• Description: CHAdeMO is a standard for fast charging with direct current (DC) developed by Japanese automakers. The name stands for "CHArge de MOve" and allows a charging power of up to 100 kW, with future versions expected to support even higher power.

5. Tesla Supercharger

• Region: Global (but with different connectors depending on the region)
• Charging Power: Up to 250 kW (DC)
• Usage: Tesla vehicles
• Description: Tesla uses proprietary Supercharger connectors that vary by region. In North America, Tesla uses its own proprietary connector, while in Europe, the CCS connector is used. The Superchargers provide very high charging power and are designed for Tesla drivers to enable fast recharging.