What is Type 1 and Type 2 connector?

The electric vehicle (EV) market has been rapidly growing, with more and more people switching from traditional gasoline-powered cars to EVs. One essential component of an EV is the charging infrastructure, which relies on connectors that enable the transfer of electricity from the grid to the vehicle's battery pack. Two common types of connectors used in EV charging are Type 1 and Type 2 connectors.

Understanding Type 1 Connectors

Type 1 connectors, also known as SAE J1772 connectors, were primarily developed in North America and Japan. These connectors feature a five-pin configuration, including two power pins (L1 and N), a dedicated ground pin, and two communication pins (CP and PP). The CP pin enables communication between the vehicle and the charging station, while the PP pin indicates the maximum allowable charging current.

One notable feature of Type 1 connectors is their compatibility with single-phase charging, supporting a maximum charge rate of 7.4 kW. However, it's important to note that Type 1 connectors are slowly being phased out in favor of Type 2 connectors due to the latter's superior functionality and increased compatibility.

The Advantages of Type 2 Connectors

Type 2 connectors, also referred to as Mennekes connectors, gained popularity in Europe and have now become the standard for most EV manufacturers worldwide. These connectors come with additional pins compared to Type 1 connectors, offering greater functionality and allowing for three-phase charging.

With seven pins, including three power pins (L1, L2, and L3), a neutral pin (N), a dedicated earth pin (PE), and two communication pins (CP and PP), Type 2 connectors accommodate both single-phase and three-phase charging. The increased number of pins enhances safety by allowing for more effective communication between the vehicle and charging station, as well as enabling higher charging speeds.

Type 2 connectors also support a higher maximum charge rate, with some models capable of handling up to 22 kW. This makes them suitable for fast-charging stations and ensures shorter charging times, adding convenience for EV drivers.

The Transition to Type 2 Connectors

As the global EV market continues to grow, many countries are transitioning away from Type 1 connectors in favor of Type 2 connectors. With their improved functionality, compatibility, and safety features, Type 2 connectors offer significant advantages over their Type 1 counterparts.

To facilitate this transition, governments and organizations worldwide are investing in the installation of Type 2 charging infrastructure. Additionally, most modern EVs already come equipped with onboard chargers that support Type 2 connectors, further encouraging the adoption of this standard.

In conclusion, the choice of connector plays a crucial role in the development of electric vehicle charging infrastructure. While Type 1 connectors have traditionally been popular in North America and Japan, Type 2 connectors have emerged as the global standard due to their enhanced functionality, compatibility with both single-phase and three-phase charging, and overall convenience. As the world transitions towards a greener automotive future, Type 2 connectors will likely continue to dominate the EV charging landscape.