Understanding EV Charging Connectors: Type 1, Type 2 & CCS Explained

Understanding EV Charging Connectors: Type 1, Type 2 & CCS Explained

If you’re new to electric vehicles, you’ve probably come across terms like Type 1, Type 2, and CCS when researching charging options. These are all types of EV charging connectors — the plugs and sockets that connect your car to the charger.

Knowing the difference between connector types is essential for choosing the right EV charging cable, whether you’re charging at home, at work, or using a public charging point. In this guide, EVwired breaks down everything you need to know about the most common connectors used in the UK.

What Are EV Charging Connectors?

An EV charging connector is the physical interface between your vehicle and the charge point. Different regions and manufacturers use different connector standards, but in the UK and Europe, the Type 2 plug has become the universal standard.

There are two main categories of connectors:

• AC Connectors (Alternating Current) — for standard and fast home or workplace charging.

• DC Connectors (Direct Current) — for rapid and ultra-rapid charging at motorway or public charging stations.

Let’s take a closer look at each connector type.

Find out more in our blog: AC vs DC EV Charging: Everything You Need to Know.

Type 1 Charging Connector

Type 1 connectors were commonly used on early-generation EVs, particularly from Asian and North American manufacturers. While they’re becoming less common in Europe, many used EVs — such as the Nissan Leaf (pre-2018) and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV — still use them.

Key Features:

• 5-pin single-phase design.

• Supports up to 7.4 kW charging speed.

• Features a latch mechanism to secure the cable.

• Typically used for home or workplace charging.

If you own a Type 1 EV but want to use modern Type 2 charge points, you can purchase a Type 1 to Type 2 EV charging cable to charge your vehicle.

Type 2 Charging Connector

The Type 2 connector is now the standard for nearly all new electric vehicles in the UK and Europe. It’s sometimes called the Mennekes plug (after its German manufacturer).

You’ll find Type 2 sockets on vehicles from brands including: Tesla, BMW, Kia, Volkswagen, Hyundai, Polestar, Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, and many others.

Key Features:

• 7-pin design supporting both single-phase (7.4 kW) and three-phase (22 kW) AC charging.

• Compatible with nearly all public AC chargers in the UK.

• Locking mechanism ensures a secure connection.

• Suitable for home, workplace, and public charging.

A Type 2 to Type 2 EV charging cable is the most versatile option for UK drivers — perfect for both home wall boxes and public AC charging stations.

CCS (Combined Charging System) Connector

The CCS (Combined Charging System) is the standard for DC rapid and ultra-rapid charging in the UK and across Europe. It combines a Type 2 connector with two additional DC pins — allowing much faster charging speeds.

Most modern EVs, including: the Tesla Model Y, VW ID.4, Hyundai IONIQ 5, and Kia EV6, use a CCS Type 2 port.

Key Features:

• Combines Type 2 with two high-power DC contacts.

• Supports up to 350 kW DC charging (depending on the vehicle).

• Only used at public rapid charging stations — cables are tethered to the charger.

• Enables 10–80% charge in as little as 20–30 minutes for most EVs.

You don’t need to buy a CCS cable — DC rapid chargers already include one, ready to plug directly into your car.

CHAdeMO Connectors (For Older EVs)

Although less common now, CHAdeMO connectors were once popular on Japanese models like the Nissan Leaf and Mitsubishi i-MiEV. This DC fast-charging standard is gradually being phased out in Europe in favour of CCS, but CHAdeMO chargers can still be found across the UK network.

Which Connector Does My EV Use?

If your EV was registered after 2018, it almost certainly has a Type 2 connector for AC charging and a CCS port for DC rapid charging.

Still unsure? You can check your owner’s manual, visit the manufacturer’s website for full charging specifications, or check our EV brands page.

Choose the Right Cable for Your EV

Once you know your EV’s connector type, choosing the right charging cable is simple. For most UK drivers, a Type 2 to Type 2 charging cable is the go-to choice — compatible with nearly all home chargers and public AC stations.

EVwired Charging Cable Benefits

• Compatible with all Type 2 electric vehicles.

• 5-year warranty for long-term reliability.

• Weather-resistant IP55-rated design.

• Single-phase (7.4 kW) and three-phase (22 kW) options.

• Free fast-tracked UK delivery.

• Includes free storage case and connector caps.

EVwired cables are designed for durability, safety, and everyday convenience — whether you’re charging on your driveway or at a public charging hub.

Understanding EV charging connector types is key to making charging your car simple and stress-free. While Type 2 and CCS connectors dominate the UK market, knowing the difference helps ensure you’re always ready to plug in confidently wherever you drive.

Enjoyed reading this guide? Find out more on the EVwired Blog.