EV Charging Basics: Types and Choices of Chargers
Charging an electric vehicle (EV) can be confusing due to the several types of chargers available today with different manufacturers of vehicles. Understanding the types of chargers and their compatibility is essential for a seamless and convenient experience.
First of many questions that may come to mind while choosing an EV is whether you will be able to find a charging station with the type of connector that your car supports. That is important and relevant. Let us help you figure things out.
Types of charging connectors
Different chargers for EVs provide charging capability with both AC and DC power sources. The charging connector at your home uses an AC source that charges your vehicle at a slow or moderate speed which is good for your car, same can be used for overnight charging and comes in different capacities ranging from 3.3 kW – 22kW depending upon the onboard charger supported by your car Fast charging connectors used at out-of-home charging stations provide quick charging using a DC source.
Primarily, there are six types of connectors used in EVs worldwide - Type 1, Type 2, CHAdeMo, CCS, GB/T, and IEC 60309.
Different connectors in different countries
Car manufacturers in different regions use different charging connectors. In Europe, EV companies use Type-2 and CCS connectors. Manufacturers in North America mostly use Type-1 and a version of CCS. In Asia, EV companies use Type-1, CHAdeMo, CCS, and GB/T connectors.
Type-1 and type-2 are used for home charging in North America, Japan, and Europe. CCS CHAdeMo connectors are used for out-of-home DC fast charging stations. China uses versions of GB/T for both AC and DC charging solutions.
Which connectors are used in India?
India is a diverse market having a wide range of electric vehicles from global manufacturers. Most electric cars in India are compatible with CCS2, a European standard known for efficient communication with the battery. As per the Charging Infrastructure for Electric Vehicles (EV) – the revised consolidated guidelines and standards by Ministry of Power, technical specifications for electric vehicles charging in India includes Type1, Type2, GB/T and BHARAT AC-001 for Level 2 AC charging, and Type2, CHAdeMo, CCS 1 and CCS 2and DC001 for level 3 DC charging. Charging standards vary across different countries for Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 charging stations. Table below highlights the mapping of different charger specification in India:
Uniform standards for all charging stations
In India, the Ministry of Power issued the revised consolidated guidelines and standards for charging infrastructure for EVs on 14th January 2022. This announcement will further help in faster adoption of EVs in India by ensuring safe, reliable, and affordable EV charging infrastructure.
In conclusion
Understanding the various EV connectors and their global standards is vital for a smooth charging experience. Uniform standards, as mandated by the government, ensure compatibility and convenience, while strategic station placement and public-private partnerships relieve range anxiety, driving the widespread acceptance of electric vehicles. With these measures, the future of EVs looks promising, making them an attractive choice for the next vehicle purchase.
