Confused by EV Charging Connectors? A Simplified Guide

There’s a dizzying array of charging connectors for electric vehicles. But don’t worry because our handy guide is designed to break through the clutter. Read on.

There are Two Main Types of Charging

• AC (Alternating Current) Charging: This is slower but more common for home and public charging.  
• DC (Direct Current) Fast Charging: This is much faster and typically found at public charging stations for long trips.  

Common Connector Types

• Type 1: Primarily used in North America for AC charging.  
• Type 2: The most common connector in Europe and increasingly used in North America for both AC and DC charging.
• CCS1: The standard for DC fast charging in North America.
• CCS2: The standard for DC fast charging in Europe and many other parts of the world.  
• Tesla Connector: Proprietary connector used exclusively by Tesla vehicles.  
  

The North American Charging Standard

The North American Charging Standard (NACS) was developed by Tesla for use in the company’s vehicles. It remained a proprietary standard until 2022 when its specifications were published by Tesla. The connector is physically smaller than the J1172/CCS connector, and uses the same pins for both AC and DC charging functionality.

Most electric vehicles sold in North America will have a Type 1 connector for AC charging and a CCS1 connector for DC fast charging.  Some electric vehicles, especially those from European manufacturers, might have a Type 2 connector for AC charging.  Tesla vehicles use their proprietary connector, but adapters are available for charging at public stations.

If you are thinking about setting up home charging, read this guide now.

THE TAKEAWAY

Check your vehicle’s manual to see which connectors it supports. Many public charging stations offer multiple connector types. Consider using a charging station app to find compatible chargers and avoid surprises. It’s important to note that while these are the most common connectors in the US, other types might exist in specific regions or for older vehicles By understanding these basics, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the world of EV charging.

Sources: EV Car Answers Editors, Gemini, Dreamstime