Is CCS the same as J1772? What is CCS charger called?

Electric vehicles have become increasingly popular in recent years, and with this rise in popularity comes a need for more advanced charging technology. Two of the most common types of charging standards for EVs are CCS and J1772. Many people wonder if CCS is the same as J1772, and what a CCS charger is called. In this article, we will explore the differences between CCS and J1772, as well as delve into the world of CCS chargers.

What is CCS?

CCS stands for Combined Charging System. It is a type of charging standard that allows for both DC fast charging and AC charging. CCS is commonly used in Europe and North America and is quickly becoming the standard for fast charging EVs. The CCS plug is a single plug that combines the capabilities of the J1772 plug for AC charging and an additional two DC pins for fast charging. This makes CCS a versatile charging solution for electric vehicles.

In terms of charging speed, CCS is known for its fast charging capabilities. Depending on the charger and the vehicle being charged, CCS can deliver power from 20 kW up to 350 kW. This means that CCS chargers can charge an EV significantly faster than traditional AC chargers, making them ideal for long-distance travel and quick top-ups.

One of the key advantages of CCS is its compatibility with a wide range of EVs. Many automakers have adopted CCS as their charging standard, including Volkswagen, BMW, Ford, and more. This means that CCS chargers are becoming more prevalent and more accessible to EV drivers.

What is J1772?

J1772 is another type of charging standard commonly used in North America. Unlike CCS, J1772 is primarily used for AC charging, although there are some DC fast charging options available. The J1772 plug has been around for many years and is a familiar sight at charging stations across the country.

J1772 chargers are typically slower than CCS chargers, with most delivering power from 6 kW to 19.2 kW. While this is sufficient for overnight charging or top-ups during the day, it may not be ideal for long-distance travel or situations where a quick charge is needed.

One of the main advantages of J1772 is its widespread adoption. Many EVs in North America come equipped with a J1772 plug, making it easy for drivers to find a charging station that is compatible with their vehicle. Additionally, many public charging stations in the U.S. use the J1772 standard, making it a convenient option for EV owners.

Is CCS the same as J1772?

One of the most common questions when it comes to EV charging standards is whether CCS is the same as J1772. The short answer is no, CCS and J1772 are not the same. While they both serve the purpose of charging electric vehicles, they have different capabilities and are used in different regions.

CCS is a more advanced charging standard that combines both DC fast charging and AC charging into a single plug. This makes CCS more versatile and capable of charging EVs faster than J1772. Additionally, CCS is the standard in Europe and is gaining popularity in North America.

On the other hand, J1772 is primarily used for AC charging, although there are DC fast charging options available. J1772 is the standard in North America and is commonly seen at public charging stations throughout the country. While J1772 may not be as fast as CCS, it is still a reliable and widespread option for EV owners.

What is a CCS charger called?

A CCS charger is simply called a CCS charger. These chargers are equipped with a CCS plug that can deliver both DC fast charging and AC charging to compatible electric vehicles. CCS chargers come in various power outputs, ranging from 20 kW to 350 kW, making them suitable for a wide range of EVs.

Many CCS chargers are equipped with two cables: one for DC charging and one for AC charging. This allows EV owners to choose the type of charging that is most convenient for their needs. Additionally, CCS chargers are becoming more prevalent at public charging stations, making them an accessible option for EV drivers.

One of the key features of a CCS charger is its fast charging capabilities. With the ability to deliver power up to 350 kW, CCS chargers can charge an EV significantly faster than traditional AC chargers. This makes CCS chargers ideal for long-distance travel and situations where a quick charge is needed.

How to use a CCS charger?

Using a CCS charger is relatively simple and straightforward. Here are the basic steps to follow when using a CCS charger:

1. Locate a CCS charger: Use a charging app or website to find a CCS charger near you. Many public charging stations are equipped with CCS chargers, making them easy to find.

2. Plug in the CCS connector: Once you've located a CCS charger, park your EV in the designated spot and open the charging port. Grab the CCS connector and plug it into your vehicle's charging port.

3. Start the charging session: Follow the instructions on the CCS charger screen to start the charging session. Some chargers may require you to activate the session using a mobile app or RFID card.

4. Wait for the EV to charge: The CCS charger will display the charging status and the estimated time remaining. Once the charging session is complete, unplug the CCS connector from your vehicle and close the charging port.

Using a CCS charger is a convenient and efficient way to charge your electric vehicle. With fast charging capabilities and widespread availability, CCS chargers are becoming a popular choice for EV owners.

Benefits of CCS chargers

There are several benefits to using a CCS charger for your electric vehicle. Some of the key advantages of CCS chargers include:

1. Fast charging: CCS chargers can deliver power up to 350 kW, allowing EV owners to charge their vehicles quickly and efficiently. This is especially useful for long-distance travel and situations where a quick charge is needed.

2. Compatibility: Many automakers have adopted CCS as their charging standard, making CCS chargers compatible with a wide range of EVs. This means that EV owners can use CCS chargers with confidence knowing that they will work with their vehicle.

3. Versatility: CCS chargers are equipped with both DC fast charging and AC charging capabilities, making them a versatile charging solution for electric vehicles. This allows EV owners to choose the type of charging that best suits their needs.

4. Accessibility: CCS chargers are becoming more prevalent at public charging stations, making them an accessible option for EV drivers. With the increasing popularity of CCS, finding a charger that is compatible with your vehicle is easier than ever.

In summary, CCS chargers offer fast charging, compatibility, versatility, and accessibility, making them an excellent choice for EV owners looking to charge their vehicles quickly and efficiently.

In conclusion, CCS and J1772 are two different charging standards used for electric vehicles. While CCS is a more advanced standard that offers fast charging capabilities and versatility, J1772 is a familiar and widespread option in North America. Both standards have their advantages and are suitable for different situations. Additionally, CCS chargers are becoming more prevalent and accessible, offering EV owners a fast and efficient way to charge their vehicles. Whether you prefer CCS or J1772, the most important thing is to choose a charging standard that works best for your EV and your charging needs.