EV Plug Types
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EV Plug Types Overview
As an EV charger manufacturer, we know that understanding the different EV plug types is crucial for businesses looking to invest in EV charging stations or start an EV charger business. There are several standardized plugs used for EV charging globally, and being familiar with their features and applications allows buyers to choose compatible charging solutions. In this guide, we’ll provide an overview of the most common DC and AC EV plug types used worldwide.
Types of EV Plug Connectors
The main EV plug types fall into two categories – DC fast charging and AC charging. DC fast charging uses high voltage direct current to quickly charge an EV battery. The dominant DC fast charge connector is the CHAdeMO plug. AC charging delivers lower voltage alternating current for slower overnight or opportunistic daytime charging. The most common AC EV plugs are Type 1, Type 2 and the Tesla connector. Understanding the capabilities of each allows buyers to choose the right connectors for their needs.
Type 1 EV Plug
The Type 1 EV plug, also known as the J1772 connector, is commonly used for AC charging in North America. This EV charging plug features a single phase pin layout and is rated for up to 19.2kW charging, typically on Level 2 AC EV chargers. The Type 1 plug has a rounded rectangular shape with five large pins. It includes safety features like auto-latching to avoid disconnects. The Type 1 is convenient for North American public EV charging stations andcompatible with nearly all EVs in the region.
Type 2 EV Plug
The Type 2 connector is the standard AC charging plug used in Europe on both public and home EV chargers. This EV socket has a distinct trapezoidal shape and 7 pins to support three phase charging. Type 2 connectors are rated for up to 22kW (single phase) and 43kW (three phase) charging speeds. They feature an auto-lock mechanism and proximity detection for safety. Type 2 EV plugs are common across Europe and have become the basis for the global AC fast charging standard.
Silver-plated pins on the surface of copper alloy with a thermoplastic top. The charger is easy to insert and withdraw,
featuring an ergonomic design with a comfortable grip. Supports vehicle electronic lock functions. The European
CCS Combo 1 Plug
The CCS Combo 1 plug combines the Type 1 connector with two extra DC pins, allowing both AC and DC fast charging. It is commonly used in North America at up to 50kW. The CCS 1 uses the same Type 1 handle for AC charging and adds two large DC pins below it. This consolidated plug is very convenient for regional DC fast charging stations. CCS Combo 1 provides future upgradeability, so buyers should consider it for flexible EV charging solutions.
CCS Combo 2 Plug
CCS Combo 2 is the European counterpart to CCS Combo 1, combining the Type 2 AC plug with DC fast charge pins for charging up to 350 kW. This single connector allows both AC charging and ultra fast DC using the same port. CCS Combo 2 plugs feature sturdy locking mechanisms and a slim, easy to use handle design. For flexible high-speed charging, CCS Combo 2 is the standard for European DC fast charging stations.
EV DC Fast Charger (Dual Plug) is an efficient and convenient electric vehicle charging device designed to provide fast and reliable charging services for electric vehicles. This charger uses DC fast charging technology to significantly shorten charging time and provide a longer driving range for electric vehicles.
Tesla Proprietary Plug
Tesla uses its own proprietary plug design for AC charging at home and at Tesla Superchargers. The Tesla plug is smaller than J1772 with a smooth handle shape. For Model S, 3, X & Y, Tesla provides adapters to use J1772 public AC charging stations. At Supercharger locations, Tesla uses a modified Type 2 plug with additional DC pins for charging up to 250kW. While proprietary, Tesla’s plug is very convenient for Tesla EV owners to quickly charge.
CHAdeMO Plug
The CHAdeMO plug is the longstanding DC fast charging standard used primarily in Asia and North America. This connector features large dedicated DC charging pins in a bulky orange design. CHAdeMO charging typically ranges from 50-150kW, with a high 400-600V direct current for rapid charging. While not as sleek as newer standards, CHAdeMO is still widely deployed at many existing DC fast charging stations.
GB/T Chinese EV Plug
China uses the GB/T plug, also called Guobiao or GB, for AC charging of EVs domestically. This plug features a triangular shape with a folding shutter cover. The GB/T plug has five large round pins to carry AC current for Level 2 charging. This standard is compatible with the top EV models in China like the NIO ES8 and BYD Tang. Those looking to deploy EV charging solutions in China need GB/T plug compatibility.
FAQ
Q: What are the most common EV plug types in the United States?
A: Type 1 and CCS Combo 1
Q: What EV plug type is standard in Europe?
A: Type 2 and CCS Combo 2
Q: Can Tesla EVs use public charging stations?
A: Yes, with an adapter
Q: Which plug is used for DC fast charging?
A: CHAdeMO and CCS Combo
Q: Does China use unique EV plug types?
A: Yes, the GB/T plug