Do you have the right kind of charger for your electric vehicle? Well, for your information there is no such thing as a universal charger. Electric automobiles have certain regulations. However, some automakers have their connector types.
Superchargers and adapters for usage on other charging networks can be used. It does not matter that you are using Level 1, Level 2, or fast charging. Selecting a proper EV charger type is essential to charge your battery at the fastest possible rate. Here’s what you need to know about the different EV charger types available in the United States.
What are Modes?
The charger mode determines how the EVSE connects to the electrical grid.
- Mode 1 plugs into a standard household AC outlet, but it is normally not allowed in most areas due to the lack of necessary safety electronics.
- Mode 2 plugs into a typical household AC socket and has the same safety features as Mode 1 in its in-cable control box (ICCB).
- Mode 3 for an AC charge, Mode 3 plugs into a wall box or charging station. It is not equipped with an ICCB. In Europe, consumers are frequently forced to have their Mode 3 cable while using public AC charging stations.
- High-speed DC charging at charging stations is reserved for Mode 4.
Level 1 vs. Level 2 EV Chargers: What’s the Difference?
You need to be familiar with levels to comprehend the many electric vehicle chargers. The “Level” indicates how quickly the charger can charge the vehicle, ranging from the slowest (Level 1) to the fastest (Level 2, Level 3).
Different Types of EV Chargers and How They Work
EV charger types refer to the plug or connector you use to connect to a charging station.
Besides, the term “charger” is sometimes used interchangeably to refer to the onboard charger that connects directly to the battery and the home or public charging device, also known as electric vehicle supply equipment or EVSE.
The connector types on both ends of the charging cable are the subject of this article. More information about several types of home charging units may be found here.
Because EV charging standards vary widely worldwide, it’s not a one-line answer to how many different types of EV chargers there are. If you buy an electric car in Europe or China, you’ll have a different set of options than buying one in the United States. Purdue University scientists are even developing a charging system that will allow EVs to be charged through the road’s surface. Because most of us don’t carry our cars in our carry-on luggage, you won’t need to bring every type of connector available.
EV charger types:
So, how many types of electric car chargers are there? This article focuses on the different types of EV charger types USA to select one or more common connectors in your area.
- SAE J1772
SAE J1772 is a standard developed by SAE International. The SAE J1772 charger is the most popular charge plug for Level 1 and 2 charging in North America. It has five pins and offers a power output of up to 7 kW. This style of connector applies to all kinds of home charging stations. You can’t use it for numerous charging speeds because it’s a single-phase wire.
- Type 2
Type 2 connector is more common than in North America. It features seven pins and a locking feature for a more secure connection. It can switch between three power phases. It can interact with the batteries in your electric vehicle to determine when it’s plugged in. The Type 2 connector can only be used for Level 1 and 2 charging, just like the SAE J1772. Thus you’ll need a different connector to use a DC fast charger.
- Standard charger
Standard chargers are suitable for leaving your electric vehicle plugged in all day or night. Mostly it is used for home or work networks. If you’re going on a road trip, you’ll want to bring one of these chargers with you to use fast charging stations wherever you go.
- Combined Charging System (CCS)
CCS is a term that refers to Combined Charging System. The CCS connector or Combined Charging System is compatible with various charging methods. It includes Level 1, Level 2, and direct current charging (DC).
These seven-pin plug and two-pin attachment chargers are the quickest EV charging solutions available. It has some networks capable of charging at 350 kW. CCS can be seen on new Volkswagen, BMW, and General Motors vehicles.
- CHAdeMo
CHAdeMo is a typical EV charger seen on Japanese vehicles. The Nissan LEAF and the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV also use this connection type.
CHAdeMO connector has a separate socket, unlike others. When you open up your vehicle’s onboard charging port, you’ll see two sockets. CHAdeMO connectors can withstand speeds of up to 400 kW.
This is comparatively higher than any other electric vehicle can handle. That implies the speed of your charging station or onboard charger, not the CHAdeMO connection. It will determine how fast you can charge.
AC vs. DC Fast Chargers: Which is Right for Your Electric Car?
Suppose you want to drive your phone mostly at a residence or Level 2 charging stations. You’ll only need one EV charger: the SAE J1772 charger. This is the greatest recharging method because it is gentler on your batteries than DC recharging.
Most popular EV charging networks, such as Charge Point and Blink, contain CCS and CHAdeMO chargers. Thus compatibility shouldn’t be an issue.
Buying an electric vehicle might be a great lesson in charging options and connection; however, before building a home charging station or buying a J1772 converter. Make sure you choose an EV that you’ll enjoy driving. Numerous factors to consider before purchasing an electric vehicle, ranging from seating capacity to range kilometers.
