EV Charging Connectors: CCS2, Type2 & GB/T Solutions

The electric vehicle charging socket types, technically referred to as vehicle inlets, are the critical interfaces mounted on the vehicle itself that accept the charging connector from the power source. The design and type of this socket are determined by the vehicle's regional market, its charging capabilities (AC only, or AC and DC fast charging), and the applicable standards. Understanding these socket types is crucial for EV manufacturers, charging station operators, and end-users to ensure compatibility. For alternating current (AC) charging, which is the most common method for home and workplace charging, the socket types align with regional standards. In North America and Japan, the SAE J1772 standard defines a five-pin inlet for AC Level 1 and Level 2 charging. In Europe and many other regions, the IEC Type 2 inlet, with its seven-pin configuration, is standard and supports both single-phase and three-phase AC power. For vehicles capable of direct current (DC) fast charging, the socket design becomes more complex. The Combined Charging System (CCS) integrates the DC fast charging pins into the same physical coupler as the AC inlet, resulting in a CCS1 inlet in North America (based on J1772 with two added DC pins) and a CCS2 inlet in Europe (based on Type 2 with two added DC pins). Alternatively, the CHAdeMO standard, primarily used by some Japanese automakers, uses a completely separate, larger socket dedicated solely to DC fast charging. The Chinese market utilizes the GB/T standard, which defines distinct sockets for AC and DC charging. The engineering behind these sockets is immensely challenging. They must be designed to safely handle high voltages and currents, provide a reliable connection over thousands of mating cycles, incorporate high voltage interlock loop (HVIL) circuits for safety, and maintain a hermetic seal against environmental contaminants when mated and when covered by a cap. JONHON OPTRONIC TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD., with its 400 engineers in the EV business unit and over 300 related patents, is a leading designer and manufacturer of these complex vehicle inlets. Our global footprint, including tech centers in key markets like Korea and America, ensures that we can support OEMs in developing vehicles tailored for specific regions with the correct, fully compliant socket types. For detailed specifications and integration support for your next vehicle platform, we invite you to contact our engineering team.