Different types of plugs and sockets have been developed in the past for charging electric vehicles. In Europe, within the European Union, the type of plug is defined by the IEC 62196 standard.
Types of AC Plugs (Alternating Current):
Type 1:
Type 1 was developed in Japan and is mainly used in Japan and the USA. It is a single-phase plug/socket with a maximum power of 32A.
Type 2:
Type 2 was developed in Germany and is supported and used by all European countries and car manufacturers. It is a three-phase plug/socket with a maximum power of 63A. What makes this type unique is that it is compact, easy to use, and supports both single-phase and three-phase charging. It also features a locking mechanism to secure the plug in the socket during charging.
Type 3:
Similar to Type 2 but with an additional sliding cover for the socket holes. This type is becoming less common and was primarily used in Italy and France.
Types of DC Plugs (Direct Current):
CHAdeMO:
Many Japanese and Korean electric cars are equipped with a CHAdeMO socket, which stands for “Charge de Move.” Notable electric cars with CHAdeMO sockets include the Nissan LEAF and the Kia Soul EV. Current CHAdeMO charging stations provide up to 50 kW but may offer higher power levels in the future.
CCS – Combo 2:
The “Combined Charging System,” or CCS, is essentially a Type 2 Mennekes plug with provisions (hence the name Combo) for DC fast charging. The German automakers BMW, Daimler, and the VW Group are behind the CCS system. Opel and some technology companies are also involved in the project.
Charging Stations and Electric Vehicles:
In Belgium, all charging stations feature a Type 2 socket and Mode 3 controller. Electric vehicles themselves may have different types of sockets. Japanese brands typically have a Type 1 socket, while all European brands have a Type 2 socket. The cable provided with the vehicle is adapted accordingly. Therefore, it’s possible to have a cable with a Type 2 plug on one end (for connecting to a charging station) and a Type 1 plug on the other end (refer to your vehicle’s technical specifications).