electric car charging plugs News

Electric car socket: know the types of charging plug

Published on October 18th, 2024

With the rise in popularity of electric vehicles, it is critical to know the different types of charging plugs available. 

Each type of plug has unique characteristics that affect charging speed and efficiency. 

Next, learn about the main types of charging plugs for electric cars and their functionalities. 

Types of charging plugs

Before we dive into the details of each type of plug, it’s important to understand that choosing the right plug can significantly influence the electric vehicle charging experience.

Let’s explore the most common options:

Type 1 (SAE J1772)

The Type 1 plug, known as SAE J1772, is widely used in North America and Japan. 

This single-phase connector supports currents up to 32 A, allowing charging in alternating current (AC) with a maximum power of about 7.4 kW. 

It is often found at home charging stations and some public chargers.

Type 2 (Mennekes)

Type 2, or Mennekes, is the European standard and the most adopted in Brazil. It supports both single-phase and three-phase connections, with charging power that can reach up to 22 kW in alternating current (AC). 

This connector is widely used in public and residential stations, especially in European vehicles.

CHAdeMO

 CHAdeMO is a Japanese standard for direct current (DC) fast charging, with a power of up to 50 kW, and can reach 100 kW in newer models. 

This connector is large and specific for fast charging, being common in fast charging stations.

CCS (Combined Charging System)

The CCS, or Combined Charging System, combines Type 2 with two additional pins for direct current (DC) fast charging. 

It can offer powers of more than 350 kW. This standard is widely used in modern vehicles and fast charging stations, allowing for both AC and DC charging.

GB/T

GB/T is the Chinese standard that is gaining ground in emerging markets. It supports both alternating and direct current, but it is not as common in Brazil as the other standards.

Understanding the different types of charging plugs is crucial to ensure compatibility and efficiency in EV charging

Each type of connector has its particularities and is more suitable for certain regions and infrastructures. 

When choosing an electric car, it is important to consider the type of plug it uses and the availability of compatible charging stations.

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