EV Charging Connector Guide

Date: Jan 26, 2024

Did you know there are several different types of EV charging connectors? While your MINI Electric can easily connect to charging stations around Miami and Hollywood, there are actually quite a few different connector types on the market today. What’s the difference between the types of EV charging connectors? Some are more common in different regions, and some are built to accommodate faster charging methods without burning out. Read through our EV charging connector guide, and be sure to check out the latest in MINI electric vehicles at Lauderdale MINI!

Types of EV Charging Connectors

So, why are there so many different types of EV charging connectors around the world? Some manufacturers prefer specific designs depending on their country of origin. For example, you’ll primarily find GBT connectors in China and SAE J1772 connectors in North America. Compare and contrast the types of connectors below:

• Type 1 (SAE J1772): You’ll find Type 1 chargers primarily in Japan and North America. This 5-pin design supports charging up to 16 or 32 amps, which can be slower than others. Brands like Nissan, Chevrolet, and Ford support Type 1.

• Type 2 (IEC 62196): Type 2, orMennekes connectors, are 7-pin connectors that provide faster rates up to 32 amps. Brands like BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz utilize Type 2 frequently.

• CCS (Combined Charging System): CCS chargers are built with additional DC pins to facilitate high-power charging from 80 to 200 amps. You’ll find this design on brands like Volkswagen and Hyundai.

• CHAdeMO: Less common than CCS connectors, CHAdeMO connectors are found on many Japanese brands like Kia and Mitsubishi. They also facilitate high-power charging.

• GBT: GBT chargers are versatile enough for both AC and DC fast charging, but this design is almost exclusively used in China.

Types of EV Charging Levels

In the previous section, we mentioned that only certain types of connectors can be used with fast charging stations. So, what does that mean? There are three primary charging levels found around Coconut Creek, which include:

• Level 1: Level 1 charging is the slowest but most easily accessible charging level. In the United States, just plug into any grounded outlet and begin charging immediately.
• Level 2: Level 2 charging is faster, and it’s common in both private charging stations and public charging stations. Most EV owners get a Level 2 charger professionally installed in their garage for everyday convenience.
• Level 3: Level 3, or DC Fast Charging, is found only in public stations. That’s because it uses direct current charging, while Levels 1 and 2 use alternating currents. Level 3 charging produces a lot more energy but also requires infrastructure only found in commercial spaces.

Learn More About EV Ownership at Lauderdale MINI

Our EV charging connector guide is just the beginning, so don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions about electric vehicle ownership in Fort Lauderdale. Contact us online or just stop by Lauderdale MINI. We can introduce you to the MINI EV vehicle lineupand walk you through everything that first-time EV owners should know, including how to maintain your new car!