Learn what the difference is between the types of connectors for electric cars depending on whether the electric car is European, Chinese or imported from the USA?
With the increasing use of electric vehicles (electric cars), the issue of charging connector compatibility is becoming increasingly relevant. Different continents use different charging connector standards, which can sometimes create difficulties for electric vehicle owners traveling between different regions. In this article, we will look at the main types of connectors used in the United States, Europe, China and Japan, as well as what to do if the charging connector on your electric vehicle does not match the one used by the charging station.
2. European standard for connectors for charging electric vehicles from a charging station
In Europe, the charging connector standards are slightly different. The most common connectors here are Type 2 and CCS Combo 2. Type 2 is the AC charging connector and is used in most European countries, including for home charging and public charging stations. This standard is promoted by the European Commission and is designed to be safe and efficient.
Type 2 Connector
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For DC fast charging , Europe uses CCS Combo 2 , which combines fast charging capability with standard Type 2 for AC charging by adding two additional fast charging pins. This is the main fast charging standard in Europe and is used by most new electric vehicle models, including cars from BMW , Volkswagen and Audi .
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Tesla in Europe uses Type 2 for its charging stations and equipment, but adapters are available to transition to other standards if necessary.
CCS Combo 2 Connector
3. Chinese standard of electric vehicle charging connectors from a charging station
China is a country with a different standard when it comes to charging connectors . Although the country has the same basic charging types (AC and DC), Chinese charging stations and vehicles use their own standards.
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AC charging in China uses GB/T 20234. This standard is different from the American and European standards, including different connector features and communication protocols.
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DC fast charging in China also uses GB/T 20234. This is a standardized fast charging method that includes unique pins different from those in Europe and the US, and can provide higher charging power.
GB/T 20234 Connector
Due to these differences between Chinese and international standards, electric car owners in China should be careful when traveling abroad, as they may need to use adapters.
4. Japanese standard for electric vehicle charging connectors from a charging station
Japan has its own charging connector standard, which is primarily used for AC charging . This standard is CHAdeMO , which is used for DC fast charging in Japan, as well as in other parts of the world, including the US and Europe, although it is gradually being replaced by CCS.
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AC charging in Japan often uses a Type 1 connector, which is less common outside the country but still used by some Japanese models.
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DC fast charging in Japan and most of Asia is dominated by the CHAdeMO standard. This connector is used by companies such as Nissan and Mitsubishi and is one of the main fast charging connectors in the region.
CHAdeMO Connector
5. Charging Connectors for Tesla Electric Vehicles
Tesla uses a different connector for its vehicles in different regions:
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In the US and Canada, Tesla uses a proprietary connector that is specifically designed for its vehicles. It combines AC and DC charging in the same port, making it convenient for Tesla owners to use.
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In Europe , Tesla is switching to a Type 2 connector for AC charging, using adapters to transition to other fast charging standards.
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In China, Tesla uses a different charging standard that complies with Chinese national charging standards.
Tesla Connector (USA and Canada)
6. Connectors for electric vehicles when importing a car from the USA
In the US, the primary connector standard is J1772 (or SAE J1772), which is used for AC (alternating current) charging. This is a widely used connector and is the standard for all electric vehicles except Tesla. J1772 is a four-pin connector, meaning it includes two power pins (positive and negative) as well as two communication pins that allow the charger and vehicle to communicate to ensure proper charging.
SAE J1772 Connector
- DC fast charging in the US is typically done via CHAdeMO or CCS Combo 1. CHAdeMO is an older standard and is used by Japanese and some European vehicles, while CCS Combo 1 (Combined Charging System) is the new fast charging standard that is becoming increasingly popular in the US.
CCS Combo 1 Connector
6. Choosing an adapter/converter when importing a car from the USA and China?
If you find yourself in a situation where the charging station connector does not match that of your electric vehicle, there are several solutions:
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Using an adapter/converter
Many charging stations offer adapters that allow vehicles with different connector types to be charged. If the charging station does not match your standard, check to see if adapters are available. -
Charging at specialized stations
In some regions, there are specialized charging stations that offer a variety of connectors and can support all major charging standards, including Tesla and other popular connectors . -
Plan your trips
If you are traveling abroad, it is advisable to plan your charging in advance using charging station apps and maps that show the compatibility of charging stations with your connector.
Conclusion
The differences in charging connectors for electric vehicles between different continents and manufacturers can create some inconveniences for electric car owners, especially when traveling abroad. However, there are solutions such as adapters and specialized charging stations that can ensure compatibility and make charging your vehicle easy and convenient. It is important to inform yourself about the differences in connectors and prepare for trips to different regions to avoid problems charging your electric vehicle.
