Different electric vehicles use different connectors. Different chargers use different connectors. Not all of them are compatible with each other and understanding which is which prevents frustrating surprises at public charge points.
Type 2 - the everyday connector
Type 2 is the standard AC charging connector across virtually all modern EVs in the UK and Europe. It is used for home wall chargers and public AC charge points. If a vehicle has a Type 2 socket , and almost all do it is compatible with the vast majority of home chargers and public slow and fast chargers.
CCS - the rapid charging standard
CCS (Combined Charging System) is the standard DC rapid charging connector on most modern EVs in Europe. It combines a Type 2 socket with two additional DC pins, allowing both AC and DC charging through a single vehicle socket.
A vehicle with CCS can access the majority of rapid chargers in the UK including almost all motorway service station chargers.
CHAdeMO - the Nissan standard
CHAdeMO is the DC rapid charging connector used on Nissan Leaf models. It is a separate socket from the Type 2 AC inlet.
CHAdeMO chargers are less common than CCS at new installations, but remain available across much of the UK network. Coverage is gradually declining as new rapid charger installations focus on CCS.
Three-pin plug - emergency use only
Every EV includes a cable for charging from a standard domestic socket. Charge rate is around 2.3kW slow but functional for emergencies or occasional use. Not designed as a primary charging method. Never use via an extension lead.
What to check on a used EV
Confirm which connector standard the vehicle uses for rapid charging CCS or CHAdeMO. Check that the correct cables are present and undamaged. Inspect the charging port for any physical damage, corrosion, or bent pins. Missing cables are a real cost to replace factor it into any offer.
