Which EV charging connector do I need?

Your vehicle’s inlet determines which connectors you can use. Most new UK EVs support Type 2 for AC and CCS (Combo 2) for DC rapid charging. Check your handbook for exact compatibility and available adapters.

What’s the difference between AC and DC charging?

AC charging (home, workplace, many public posts) uses your car’s onboard charger and is slower. DC rapid charging bypasses the onboard charger and feeds DC directly to the battery for faster charging at suitable sites.

Is CHAdeMO still supported in the UK?

CHAdeMO is still available at many multi‑standard rapid chargers, but CCS has become the dominant DC standard for new vehicles and new installations in the UK.

Can I charge from a standard UK wall socket?

Yes, using the correct EVSE (“granny charger”) and within manufacturer guidance. It’s slow and best kept for occasional use. A dedicated wallbox is recommended for regular home charging.

What is Blue Commando for EVs?

Blue Commando (CEE) is a robust industrial‑style connector (e.g., 16A/32A). Some portable and fixed EVSE equipment use it, but installation and use should follow regulations and manufacturer instructions.

Guide to EV Charger Socket Type 1, Type 2, CCS & CHAdeMO

New to electric vehicle charging? It helps to get familiar with the most common plug and socket types you’ll encounter at home, at work, and on the road. This guide gives you a clear overview of Type 1 and Type 2 for AC charging, through to rapid DC options like CCS and CHAdeMO—plus a few special cases.

Type 1 (J1772) — AC

An older single‑phase AC connector widely used on early EVs. In the UK and Europe it’s being phased out in favour of Type 2. You’ll still find it on some legacy models and portable cables.

Type 1 (J1772) AC socket.

Type 2 (Mennekes) — AC

The dominant AC connector across the UK and Europe. Most public AC posts and home wallboxes use Type 2, and the majority of new EVs ship with a Type 2 inlet for AC charging.

Type 2 (Mennekes) AC socket.

CCS (Type 2 Combo / Combo 2) — DC Fast

CCS adds two DC pins beneath the Type 2 shape, enabling rapid DC charging using the same vehicle inlet. It supports high‑power charging on most modern UK rapid networks.

CCS (Type 2 Combo) DC fast‑charging socket.

CHAdeMO — DC Fast

A rapid DC standard commonly associated with some Japanese EVs and older rapid chargers. Availability is decreasing on new sites, but it remains in use on certain vehicles and multi‑standard rapid hubs.

CHAdeMO DC fast‑charging socket.

Standard Wall Outlet (BS1363) — AC Trickle

The everyday UK three‑pin plug. Suitable for very slow “granny” charging in a pinch, but not recommended as your main method. Always follow manufacturer guidance and safety best practices.

BS1363 three‑pin wall outlet (trickle charge).

Quick Charge CCS / SAE Combination — Explained

“Combined Charging System” refers to the fast DC method built on top of existing AC connectors. In Europe/UK it’s paired with Type 2 (Combo 2). It delivers high‑power DC via the added lower pins, while retaining standard Type 2 for AC.

SAE/CCS combination connector concept.

CCS Type 1 (SAE J1772 Combo) — DC Fast

The CCS variant based on the Type 1 shape (more common in North America/Asia). It enables DC fast charging to SAE J1772/IEC 62196‑3 standards and usually includes a locking mechanism to prevent accidental disconnects.

CCS Type 1 (SAE J1772 Combo) DC socket.

Tesla / NACS & Regional Differences

In the UK and Europe, Tesla vehicles use Type 2 for AC and CCS (Combo 2) for DC fast charging at many Supercharger sites. In North America, Tesla’s NACS connector is common. Always check your vehicle’s inlet type and supported adapters for travel.

Supercharger‑style DC connector (regional differences apply).

Blue Commando (CEE Industrial) — AC

Rugged CEE “Commando” plugs (e.g., 16A/32A) are used in commercial/industrial settings and some portable/home setups. They require appropriate EVSE equipment and should be installed/used according to regulations.

Blue Commando (CEE) industrial plug.

Good to Know

Match the connector: Your car’s inlet determines what you can use. Adapters exist but check compatibility and safety.
AC vs DC: AC is typical for home/work; DC is used for rapid public charging.
Power limits: Your vehicle’s onboard charger (AC) or battery tech (DC) caps your maximum charge speed.

For independent EV ownership advice in the UK, see the Energy Saving Trust and the UK Government’s Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV).

Guide to EV Charger Socket Types (UK)