Considerations on the type of charging interface when purchasing an electric vehicle charger

When choosing an electric vehicle charger, the consideration of the type of charging interface should focus on the compatibility of interface types, differences in interface standards, and special interface compatibility requirements. The following is a specific analysis:

Interface type adaptability:

Fast charging and slow charging interfaces: The fast charging port is large and has 9 holes. It adopts DC charging method, with high charging power and fast charging speed. The slow charging port is small and has 7 holes. It adopts AC charging method, with low charging power and slow charging speed. When making a purchase, you should choose the corresponding charger based on the type of vehicle charging port. For example, if the vehicle only has a slow charging port, an AC charger should be selected.

Interface location: The layout of charging ports varies among different vehicle models. Fast charging ports are generally located at the front or side of the vehicle, while slow charging ports are mostly at the rear. Understanding the location of the vehicle's charging port helps in choosing a charging cable of the appropriate length and shape, making it convenient to connect during outdoor travel.

Interface standard differences:

International mainstream standards

Type 1 (SAE J1772) : It is a widely used AC charging standard in the North American market. The five-pin design supports single-phase input and is suitable for level one and level two charging scenarios.

Type 2 (Mennekes) : It is the mainstream standard for electric vehicle charging in Europe. It adopts a seven-pin design, supports single-phase and three-phase AC charging, and has a maximum output power of up to 22 kilowatts. Its robust design and automatic locking mechanism make it an ideal choice for public and household charging in Europe.

CCS 1: Combining the Type 1 interface with DC fast charging function, it is the main DC fast charging standard in North America, with a maximum output power of up to 360kW and supporting fast charging.

CCS 2: Also known as CCS Combo 2, it is the main DC fast charging standard in Europe. It combines the Mennekes Type 2 plug with DC fast charging functions, with a maximum power output of 360 kilowatts, and is widely used in public fast charging stations.

CHAdeMO: Developed by a Japanese automaker, its latest version supports a charging power of up to 400 kilowatts. Although its usage rate in North America has declined, it remains the main charging standard in Japan and some Asian countries.

Chinese National Standard (GB/T) : It covers both AC and DC charging interfaces. The current version supports a maximum charging power of 7.4kW (AC) and 250kW (DC), and plans are in place to introduce a more efficient new standard.

Tesla's NACS standard: Widely used in its Supercharger network, it supports a fast charging power of 250kW and is compatible with electric vehicles of other brands through adapters.

Special interface adaptation requirements: Some models may have special charging interfaces. For instance, early Tesla models had their own dedicated charging standards. Although Tesla models sold in China have been equipped with national standard AC and DC interfaces, when purchasing a second-hand car or a special model, it is still necessary to pay attention to the type of charging interface to ensure that the charger is compatible with it.