EV Charging Connectors Guide

As electric vehicles grow in popularity, buyers are likely wondering about the types of EV charging connectors and on-the-road charging stations that are compatible with their model. This EV charging connector guide from Lexus of Greenwood Village will cover the importance of EV connectors by region, as well as the difference between AC and DC chargers. Get some clarity on these connector types before making a purchase and help overcome range anxiety on long road trips around Aurora.

EV Charging Connector Guide: AC Chargers

EV models that use an AC charger receive AC power from the charging station, which is then directed into the onboard charger of the EV. Inside the vehicle, the AC power gets converted into DC power that is used to charge the EV battery. These can be found as home charging stations or public stations around Parker. The types of EV charging connectors vary by the region where the vehicle was produced:

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

Similar to AC chargers, DC fast charging stations receive AC power at their locations. However, instead of converting AC power to DC power within the vehicle, it is converted within the charging station itself. This allows for faster charging while you’re shopping or using public parking structures around Castle Rock. Some of the types of 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

Design of EV Connectors

Although individual connector designs can vary, EV connectors have the same basic design: a number of main pins supply the charge, and control and proximity pilot pins transmit information between the charger and the EV. All charging connectors also come with built-in safety features to prevent overcurrent, overvoltage, ground faults, and high temperatures. However, it’s crucial to adhere to the safety guidelines at charging stations in Castle Rock to avoid electrical hazards.

Learn More about EVs with Lexus of Greenwood Village! 

In addition to the types of EV charging connectors, you should consider the cost of EV ownership, EV range, and EV maintenance when purchasing your first luxury electric vehicle. Explore more tips for first-time buyers with the team at Lexus of Greenwood Village, then take a closer look at the models in our inventory. Contact us for details or to set up a test drive.