EV Charging Connectors Guide

Date: Jan 29, 2024

As electric vehicles (EVs) become increasingly popular around and worldwide, there is a wide range of connector types in circulation. This frequently leads buyers to question whether their home charger will be equipped with the proper connector. The EV connectors utilized can differ based on the country, the type of EV, and the charging station. This EV connector guide from Holman Motorcars will examine the types of EV charging connectors, the difference between AC and DC chargers, and the factors that go into EV design. 

EV Charging Connector Guide: AC Chargers

For vehicles that use an AC charger, AC power is received from the charging station and directed into the EV’s onboard charger. Within the vehicle, the AC power is converted to DC power to charge the battery. The types of EV charging connectors include:

SAE J1772

• Commonly referred to as a J Plug or Type 1 connector
• Standard connectors used in North America and Japan
• Only supports single-phase use for Level 1 and Level 2 charging stations
• 1.92 kW (120 volts input), 19.2 kW (208/240 volts input)

Mennekes (Type 2)

• Used in European markets
• Supports single-phase charging as well as three-phase AC charging for Level 2 chargers
• Features a locking mechanism to secure the cable
• Delivers maximum power output of 7.6 kW (single-phase), 22 kW (three-phase)

GB/T (AC) 

• Used in China, similar design to Mennekes
• Supports single-phase 
• Delivers maximum power output of 7.4 kW

Tesla

• Designed for AC and DC charging
• North American connectors are Tesla Type 1 and European connectors are Tesla Type 2
• Single-phase and three-phase use for Level 2 and Level 3 charging stations
• Delivers maximum power output of 250 kW 

EV Charging Connector Guide: DC Chargers

DC fast charging stations receive AC power at their location; however, the AC power is converted to DC power within the charging station instead of within the vehicle. That means the DC power is supplied directly to the EV battery for faster charging. These charging stations are commonly found outside stores or in parking structures around . The types of DC EV charging connectors include: 

CCS Type 1 & 2

• Combined Charging System pairs the AC connectors with two high-speed charging pins
• CCS1 standard in North America
• CCS2 standard in Europe 
• Delivers maximum power output of 360 kW

CHAdeMO

• The first DC fast charging connector, developed for the Japanese EV market
• Delivers maximum power output of 400 kW
• Requires a separate charging port from the AC charging port

GB/T (DC)

• Only DC fast chargers used in China
• Delivers maximum power output of 237.5 kW

EV Connector Design

Although the types of EV connectors can vary depending on the region the vehicle was produced in, they share many design characteristics to ensure safe and reliable charging. Every charging connector features built-in safety features to prevent overcurrent, overvoltage, ground faults, and high temperatures. However, you must follow the safety guidelines posted on stations around to prevent electrical hazards. 

EV connectors typically have a certain number of main pins dedicated to supplying the charge and control and proximity pilot pins to transmit information between the charger and the EV. EV manufacturers also have to consider the weight and thickness of the connector cable, where the cable connects to the car for convenient use, the shape of the connector, and the locking mechanism to secure the connector during long-term use. 

Learn More About EV Design with Holman Motorcars! 

Although these connectors aren’t interchangeable for the EVs around , this EV charging connector guide helps drivers understand how much current is supplied and how to overcome range anxiety on the road. If you’re interested in learning more about how EV performance fits your lifestyle, explore EV maintenance with Holman Motorcars.