The most comprehensive guide: Electric vehicle charger connector types

In the rapidly growing electric vehicle (EV) sector, EV chargers have become a key part of the charging infrastructure. Over the years, the development and standardisation of EV connectors has played a vital role in meeting the growing needs of the EV industry. Today, a variety of connector types are available to meet different charging standards and power levels, catering to the varying needs of EV users around the world.

What is electric vehicle charger connector types?

∙What is an electric vehicle connector?

EV connectors are designed to connect electric vehicles to electric vehicle charging equipment (EV chargers) to deliver electrical power to electric vehicles with EV chargers. Common types include SAE J1772, IEC 62196, CHAdeMO, CCS, Tesla connectors and GB/T, which are suitable for different charging standards and power levels to meet the diversity of different regions and charging needs. These connector types are associated with different charging levels and speeds, ranging from standard domestic sockets (Level 1) to dedicated fast charging stations (Level 2 and DC fast charging). It is important to note that some vehicles and charging stations may support more than one connector type, so that different standards can be used for charging. In addition, advances in charging infrastructure and international cooperation may lead to further standardisation and interoperability in the future.

Generally speaking, EV connectors do not need to be purchased additionally, when you buy an EV charger on the official website of an EV charger company, you can see the connector type labelled on the product specification of this EV charger.

∙How many types of EV charger connector?

There are 6 main types of common EV charging connectors, which are usually associated with specific charging standards and regions. Below is specific information on these 6 common EV charging connector types:

SAE J1772 (Type 1)：

The J1772 connector, also known as a Type 1 connector, was originally developed for Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging in North America and

Japan. It features a five-pin design with two power pins for AC charging and the other pins for communication. Supports Level 1 (120V AC) and Level 2 (240V AC) charging. This is a relatively slow charging connector.

IEC 62196 (Mennekes)：

Widely used for AC and DC charging in Europe, and increasingly in other regions, this connector supports single-phase and three-phase AC charging. It is typically used for Level 2 charging and is also known as a Type 2 connector. type 2 connectors are cables that handle higher charging power levels.

CHAdeMO：

The CHAdeMO fast charging standard was developed by a Japanese automaker and is known for its high power DC fast charging capabilities. It was one of the first DC fast charging standards to gain traction in Japan and internationally. It is capable of delivering high power levels and is typically used in DC fast charging stations.

Combined ChargingSystem (CCS) ：

CCS is a universal charging standard developed by a consortium of vehicle manufacturers and charging infrastructure providers. it is available in two versions, CCS1 and CCS2, and is widely adopted in Europe and North America. the CCS connector supports both Level 2 fast charging and DC fast charging, and it combines a Type 2 connector for AC charging with two additional DC charging pins. The CCS charging standard is now recognised worldwide.

• CCS1 (Type 1 CCS) provides charging solutions for electric vehicles primarily in North America. The connector incorporates the J1772 standard AC charging plug and adds two additional DC charging pins, making it a versatile design. Users can use the CCS1 connector for slow AC charging on regular household power sources and commercial charging posts, as well as rapid DC fast charging on compatible DC charging stations for different charging needs. This design was implemented to provide a more convenient and flexible charging experience for electric vehicles in the North American market.
• The CCS2 (Type 2 CCS) is mainly used for EV charging in Europe. the CCS2 adopts a Type 2 plug design that supports both AC charging and DC fast charging, and it includes an AC charging plug that is suitable for common household power supplies and commercial chargers. the CCS2 is designed to provide a more flexible charging solution so that EV owners can enjoy an efficient and convenient charging experience in different charging scenarios. CCS2 is designed to provide a more flexible charging solution, enabling EV owners to enjoy an efficient and convenient charging experience in different charging scenarios.

 

Tesla Supercharger:

 Tesla has developed its own proprietary connector for its Supercharger network. It has a unique design specifically for use in Tesla vehicles. Tesla offers Level 2 AC charging using the J1772 connector adapter.

 

The GB/T (Guanbo/Tongyong)：

The GB/T connector is a charging plug and interface standard issued by the National Standards Committee of China to support both AC charging and DC fast charging for electric vehicle charging infrastructure in China.

Which EV connector type should I use?

You need to buy the right EV charger for your EV and choose the right EV connector. When you are not sure what connector to use for your EV, you can check the product specification of this EV charger or consult with the EV charger manufacturer and they will be happy to answer your questions.

As an industry-leading EV charger manufacturing company, Joint produces EV chargers, including home EV chargers, commercial EV chargers, DC fast chargers, etc. Joint has advanced full-featured test equipment and has been awarded INTERTEK and SGS Witnessed Laboratory qualifications, as well as having been awarded ETL, Energy Star, FCC, CE, CB, ETL, Energy Star, FCC, CE, CB, UKCA, TR25 and other global certifications. In addition, as a source equipment manufacturer, Joint also provides professional EV charging solutions for enterprises and individuals, and we will continue to devote ourselves to combining leading design concepts with scenario-based application requirements, so that we can benefit from the sustainable development with more partners.

Summary

Electric vehicle charger connectors are available in a variety of standards and types of designs to accommodate different charging needs and regional preferences. When choosing an EV charger, consider the charging infrastructure in your area, the compatibility of your EV, and the type of EV connector to ensure a seamless EV charging experience.