What Type of Plug Should You Order
Do You Have a Type 1 or Type 2 EV/PHEV?
It’s a question we are asked daily and the answer to this question depends on whether you have a Type 1 or Type 2 EV/PHEV.
Why?
EV/PHEV’s can be the same make and model but be different ‘Types’. The size and shape of the AC plug depends on the vehicle’s origin.
For example, an ex-Japan Nissan leaf will be a Type 1, but a NZ-new Nissan Leaf will be a Type 2.
Charging leads and portable cables have plugs at both ends—one for the power source and one for the car. In New Zealand, EVs/PHEVs use either Type 1 (ex-Japan) or Type 2 (ex-UK/NZ new) ports, each with a different shape. Using the wrong cable means it won’t fit your car.
Type 1 Port
EVs/PHEVs that are ex-Japan have a Type 1 port and are classified as Type 1 cars.
Simply take a look under the flap and you will see a round plug. This is a Type 1 plug/port/connector.
Type 2 EV/PHEV Port
Type 2 charging ports can be found on Teslas, Type 2 EVs, Type 2 PHEVs, BYDs, NZ-new EV/PHEVs and ex-UK sourced cars.
The Combined Charging System (CCS)
CCS is a versatile EV charging standard that combines both AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current) charging capabilities in a single connector. This system allows electric vehicles to use the same port for both slow charging (AC) and fast charging (DC), making it convenient and efficient for drivers.
The CCS connector has additional pins for DC fast charging, alongside the standard AC charging pins. This allows the same port to be used for both types of charging.
EV Power cables will fit cars with a CCS port.
DC (Direct Current) Charging
DC (Direct Current) charging for an EV is a fast-charging method that delivers electricity directly to the vehicle’s battery, bypassing the onboard charger that typically converts AC (Alternating Current) to DC. This allows for significantly faster charging compared to standard AC charging.
CHAdeMO
A CHAdeMO port is a type of connector used for DC fast charging of electric vehicles (EVs). It is one of the earliest and most widely adopted standards for fast charging, particularly in Japan, but also used in other parts of the world.
The CHAdeMO connector is relatively large and has a distinct round shape with multiple pins for power and communication between the vehicle and charger.
While CCS has become more dominant in Europe and North America, CHAdeMO is still widely used in Japan and remains compatible with many fast-charging networks globally.
Benefits
Faster Charging Times: DC chargers are designed to deliver high power levels, typically ranging from 50 kW to 350 kW, allowing an EV to charge much more quickly. Depending on the charger and the vehicle’s battery capacity, DC charging can often provide 80% charge in as little as 20-30 minutes.
High Voltage: DC chargers operate at higher voltages, typically around 400-800 volts, which contributes to the faster charging speeds.
Public Charging Stations: DC fast chargers are commonly found at public charging stations, especially along highways and in urban areas, making them ideal for quick top-ups during long trips.
Connector Types: Different regions and vehicle manufacturers may use different DC connectors, such as the CCS (Combined Charging System), CHAdeMO, or Tesla Supercharger connectors.
Battery Management: During DC charging, the vehicle’s battery management system carefully monitors and controls the charging process to prevent overheating and ensure the safety and longevity of the battery.
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