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EV Charger Connectors Explained: Types, How They Work, and Standards (2025 Update)

When you want to charge your car, you stop at an EV charging station, pick up the EV charger connector, plug it into your car, and then click the “Start” button to begin charging. Once you start the process, your EV will begin charging successfully.

But you might wonder — can every EV charger charge your car? You may also notice labels like “SAE J1772” or “IEC 62196” on the charging interface — but what do they actually mean? And how does an EV charger deliver power to your vehicle through the connector?

What is an EV Charger Connector?

The EV charger connector is the physical interface that connects an electric vehicle to a charging station, allowing electrical energy to flow into the vehicle’s battery. Think of it as the “plug” that links your EV to the power source.

Different electric car brands (such as Tesla,BYD, and Audi) use different charging ports. Likewise, AC and DC chargers have their own connector types. That’s why EV chargers come with various kinds of EV charger connectors, designed to ensure compatibility with different vehicles and charging standards.

What Does an EV Charger Connector Consist Of?

An EV charger connector consists of several key components that ensure safe and efficient power transfer between the charger and the electric vehicle.
Main parts include：

Plug (Handle)：The part held by the user and inserted into the vehicle’s charging port.
Pins/Contacts：Metal terminals that transmit electricity and communication signals.
Cable：Carries current from the charging station to the plug; typically made of high-quality copper and insulated for safety.
Locking Mechanism：Secures the plug in the vehicle inlet during charging to prevent accidental removal.
Communication Wires：Allow data exchange between the EV and the charger (for example, charging status, temperature, or Plug & Charge authentication).
Protective Cover ：Keeps the connector clean and dry when not in use.

How Do EV Charger Connectors Work?

EV charger connectors establish a secure electrical connection between the charging station and the vehicle’s battery management system. When plugged in, the connector communicates with the vehicle to ensure safe and efficient power transfer. The process involves:

Connection: The connector is inserted into the vehicle’s charging port, locking securely.
Communication: The charger and vehicle exchange data to determine the appropriate voltage and current.
Power Transfer: Electricity flows through the connector to charge the battery, with safety protocols preventing overcharging or overheating.
Disconnection: Once charging is complete, the connector is safely removed.

The efficiency and speed of charging depend on the connector type and the charger’s power output, which brings us to the different types of connectors.

Types of EV Charger Connectors

EV charger connectors are broadly categorized into AC (Alternating Current) and DC (Direct Current) types, each designed for specific charging speeds and vehicle compatibility. Let’s break them down.

EV charging connector types

AC Connectors

AC connectors are typically used for Level 1 and Level 2 charging, which are slower but widely available for home and public charging. Here are the main types:

Type 1（SAE J1772）

SAE J1772 is an EV charging standard developed bythe Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) in the United States. It defines the plug design, communication protocol, and safety requirements for AC charging, ensuring compatibility and safety between EVs and charging stations. Because of its five-pin, single-phase connector, it’s also commonly known as theType 1 connector. Introduced in the early 2000s, J1772 has become the dominant AC charging standard across North America, widely adopted by automakers for home and public charging.

The SAE J1772 connector supports both Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V) AC charging, with a maximum output of around 19.2 kW. It uses a control pilot signal to communicate with the vehicle, verifying the connection and enabling power flow only when it’s safe—helping prevent electric shock or misuse. This standard is used by nearly all electric vehicles in North America, including Nissan Leaf, Chevrolet Bolt, Ford Mustang Mach-E, BMW i series, and Toyota Prius Prime. Tesla vehicles can also use J1772 charging stations with a compatible adapter.

Type 2（IEC 62196-2）

Type 2 was originally designed by Mennekes in Germany and later adopted by the IEC as theIEC 62196-2 international standard. The connector has a seven-pin design—three phase lines (L1/L2/L3), neutral (N), ground (PE), plus CP and PP pins. It supports both single-phase and three-phase AC charging. Communication is handled via PWM signals through the CP pin, which regulates charging current, while PP detects cable rating and plug presence.

Type 2 connectors support up to 480V and 63A, offering charging power up to 43 kW in three-phase configurations. They are mandatory for all new AC chargers across the European Union, and widely used in Europe, Australia, and parts of Asia. Type 2 is common for both home and public charging. Typical vehicles include BMW i Series, Mercedes EQ,Volkswagen ID.4, Renault Zoe, and Tesla (European version).

GB/T Standard

Overview: The GB/T AC connector is China’s national standard for EV charging.
Use Case: Designed for AC charging in China, used in both home and public stations.
Compatibility: Found in Chinese EVs like BYD and NIO models.
Charging Speed: Typically supports up to 7.4 kW for single-phase charging.

DC Connectors

DC connectors are used for fast charging (Level 3), delivering high power directly to the vehicle’s battery for rapid charging. Here are the primary DC connector types:

CCS1（Combo 1）

The Combined Charging System (CCS1) was developed in North America as an evolution of Type 1, combining AC and DC charging in one port. CCS1 adds two large DC pins below the standard Type 1 connector, enabling high-power DC fast charging. Communication uses both PWM for initial handshakes and PLC (Power Line Communication) for advanced control, including ISO 15118 “Plug & Charge”authentication and billing.

CCS1 supports up to 1000V and 500A, allowing power levels up to 350–500 kW (even higher with liquid-cooled cables). It is the primary DC fast-charging standard in North America and is used by major charging networks such as Electrify America. Representative vehicles include Ford Mustang Mach-E, Chevrolet Silverado EV, Rivian R1T, and Hyundai Ioniq 5 (North American version).

CCS2 (IEC 62196-3 Combo 2)

CCS2, the European version of the Combined Charging System, builds upon the Type 2 connector defined in IEC 62196-3. It features the same upper section as Type 2, with two additional DC pins added below. This allows a single vehicle inlet to support both AC and DC charging. Communication combines PWM for control and PLC for high-level data exchange, such as energy management, billing, and ISO 15118 Plug & Charge functionality.

CCS2 supports DC charging up to 1000V and 500A, with maximum power levels of 350–500 kW. It has become the dominant DC fast-charging standard in Europe, used in most public charging stations and highway service areas. Typical vehicles include Volkswagen ID Series, Audi e-tron, Mercedes EQE and Porsche Taycan.

NACS (North American Charging Standard / Tesla Connector)

Originally developed by Tesla, the NACS (SAE J3400) connector was opened to all automakers in 2022 and has since been recognized as the new unified North American charging standard. The compact connector supports both AC and DC charging through shared pins, reducing size and improving ease of use. It uses PLC communication compatible with ISO 15118 for Plug & Charge and smart charging functions.

NACS supports AC charging up to 80A (19.2 kW) and DC fast charging up to 1000V and 615A, enabling power levels over 600 kW. It is now the standard interface across the Tesla Supercharger network and has been adopted by automakers including Ford, GM, Hyundai, Kia, Volvo, and Mercedes-Benz for future North American models.

CHAdeMO

Overview: Developed in Japan, CHAdeMO is a DC fast-charging standard.
Use Case: Common in public fast-charging stations, especially in Asia.
Compatibility: Used by Nissan Leaf, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, and some Toyota models.
Charging Speed: Up to 150 kW, though newer versions support higher outputs.

GB/T (DC)

Overview: China’s GB/T standard also includes a DC connector for fast charging.
Use Case: Widely used in China’s extensive fast-charging network.
Compatibility: Compatible with Chinese EVs like Xpeng and Geely.
Charging Speed: Up to 250 kW for rapid charging.

Tesla

Overview: Tesla uses its proprietary NACS connector in North America, though it’s transitioning to support CCS in some regions.
Use Case: Exclusive to Tesla Superchargers and Destination Chargers, with adapters available for other standards.
Compatibility: Tesla Model S, 3, X, and Y.
Charging Speed: Up to 250 kW at Superchargers.

EV charging connector -Tesla

Connector Type	Charging Mode	Communication	Max Voltage
Type 1 (SAE J1772)	AC (Single Phase)	PWM (CP/PP)	240V
Type 2 (IEC 62196-2)	AC (1/3 Phase)	PWM (CP/PP)	480V
CCS1 (Combo 1)	AC/DC	PLC + PWM	1000V
CCS2 (Combo 2)	AC/DC	PLC + PWM	1000V

Conclusion

EV charger connectors are the backbone of electric vehicle charging, bridging the gap between power sources and your vehicle’s battery. From the widely used J1772 and Mennekes for AC charging to the high-speed CCS, CHAdeMO, GB/T, and Tesla connectors for DC fast charging, each type serves a specific purpose based on region, vehicle, and charging needs. Understanding these connectors ensures you can charge efficiently and choose the right equipment for your EV lifestyle.

As EV adoption grows, staying informed about charger compatibility and advancements will help you navigate the evolving world of electric mobility. Whether you’re charging at home or hitting the road, the right connector makes all the difference.

Frequently and questions(FAQs)：

1. Are all EV connectors the same?

No. Different regions and car manufacturers use different connector standards. For example, Tesla uses its own connector in North America, while most European EVs use Type 2 or CCS connectors.

2. How do I know which connector my EV uses?

You can check your vehicle’s charging port, your owner’s manual, or the charging specification label near the port. Most EVs clearly indicate the compatible connector type.

3. Can I use any EV charger for my car?

Not always. Your EV must be compatible with both the connector type and the charging power (AC or DC) of the station. However, many public chargers support multiple connectors to fit different EVs.

4. What’s the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 connectors?

Type 1 (J1772) is commonly used in North America, while Type 2 (IEC 62196) is the standard in Europe. Type 2 connectors can support higher current and three-phase charging.

5. What is CCS and why is it important?

CCS (Combined Charging System) combines AC and DC charging in one port, allowing faster charging at DC stations. It’s becoming the most widely adopted fast-charging standard worldwide.

6. Do I need an adapter to charge my EV?

If your EV’s connector type doesn’t match the charger, you might need an adapter. For example, Tesla owners often use adapters to charge at non-Tesla public stations.

7. Is it safe to use different types of EV connectors?

Yes, as long as the charger and vehicle are compatible and certified. EV chargers are designed with built-in safety protocols to prevent incorrect connections or overcharging.

8. What’s the future of EV charger connectors?

The industry is moving toward standardization, especially with CCS and NACS (North American Charging Standard) becoming global trends for universal compatibility.

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