One essential piece of technology at the centre of the electric vehicle (EV) revolution is the EV charger. It is revolutionising the way we think about transportation.
The phrase “Type 2 EV charger” is probably familiar to you if you have been looking into EV charging solutions. But what is a type 2 EV charger? What precisely does this mean? Why is it so popular? And is it the best charging solution for your electric vehicle?
In this comprehensive tutorial, we will go over everything you need to know about Type 2 chargers, including how they operate and the benefits they provide, as well as installation, prices, and compatibility. You will also get to know about EV charger Type 1 vs Type 2.
What Is A Type 2 EV Charger? Everything You Need to Know!
Before diving into our main discussion, I think we need to have a solid idea about EV charging connector types. This will help you understand the type 2 charger more precisely.
EV Charging Connector Types
There are different types of connectors for charging an electric vehicle. Different locations and car manufacturers have different standards. Understanding the various EV charging port types can help you understand why Type 2 is the most common in the UK.
- Type 1 (SAE J1772)
Region: Primarily used in North America and parts of Asia.
Design: A 5-pin connector.
Power: Single-phase, up to 7.4 kW.
Status in Europe: Rare and being phased out.
2. Type 2 (Mennekes)
Region: Europe (official EU standard).
Design: a 7-pin connection.
Power: Single-phase and three-phase, with a maximum AC output of 22 kW.
Status: Standard for both residential and public AC charging.
3. CCS: Combined Charging System
Design: Based on Type 2 (Europe) with two additional pins for DC charging.
Power: Supports ultra-fast DC charging (50 kW to 350 kW).
Status: The most future-proof solution for fast charging.
4. CHADEMO
Region: Japan and parts of Asia; certain older EVs in Europe (for example, the Nissan Leaf).
Design: A large, circular connection.
Power: DC fast charging of up to 100 kW.
Status: In Europe, CCS is gradually taking its place.
5. Tesla Connector
Tesla is proprietary in North America; in Europe, it uses Type 2 and CCS.
Power: Power options include both AC and DC charging.
Status: Exclusive to Tesla in the United States, but standardised in the European Union.
Now that you have learned about the EV charging connector types, let’s get back on track.
What Is a Type 2 Charger For EV?
The Type 2 EV charger is a European EV charging standard with a seven-pin configuration. This connector type is common in Europe and is gradually becoming the standard in other places as well.
The Type 2 plug, sometimes known as the “Mennekes connector” (named after the German business that invented it), is currently the European Union’s official standard charging connector.
- Shape: The Type 2 connector is circular, with a flattened edge and seven pins.
- Compatibility: It supports both single-phase and three-phase AC charging, making it versatile. Its design enables both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) charging, which will give you a flexible solution to meet your variety of charging requirements.
- Usage: Most current EVs offered in Europe, including Tesla, BMW, Mercedes, Audi, and Volkswagen, have Type 2 charging connectors.
In layman’s words, if you drive an electric car in the UK or Europe, your vehicle most likely uses a Type 2 charger.
Charging an electric car can be hard to understand if you are new to EVs. It’s important to know the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 chargers for efficient and compatible charging.
EV Charger Type 1 Vs Type 2
The type of charger you need depends on the characteristics of your car and the standards in your area. To make sure you can charge your EV at home and public charging stations, you need to know what type it supports.
What is the Difference Between a Type 1 And Type 2 EV Charger?
Here, I am presenting a comparative discussion on EV charger Type 1 vs Type 2, depending on various parameters.
Availability and Use Cases
Type 1 EV charger, or J1772 or SAE J1772, is mostly used in Japan and North America. In some areas, they are used for charging at home and some public charging stations.
On the contrary, Type 2 chargers are the most prevalent type in the UK and Europe, and they are becoming more common in other parts of the world as well. You will find them in Pod Point and other public charging stations.
The Combined Charging System (CCS), which is based on the Type 2 connector for DC fast charging, is used by many fast chargers and rapid chargers, as those in the Tesla Supercharger network.
Type 2 chargers are easy to locate in Europe for electric vehicle (EV) drivers, although Type 1 EV chargers may be easier to find in North America for their automobiles.
EV Connectors and Cables
A Type 1 EV charger is a single-phase connection, while a Type 2 charger or Mennekes, can charge both single-phase and three-phase batteries. Compared to Type 1, it charges faster. There are varying lengths and amperage ratings for EV charging cables so that they can work with different cars and charging needs.
A lot of new electric vehicles can use both types of connectors, which makes it easier to charge at home or in public places.
Physical Differences
The Type 1 connector is round and has five pins. It is widespread in electric cars in North America and Japan, notably the Nissan Leaf and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.
Mennekes, or type 2 connections, are round and have seven pins. Companies like BMW, Jaguar, and Tesla utilise them for their European vehicles.
Type 2 connectors have extra pins that let them charge three phases at once, which you can’t get in Type 1 connectors.
Charging Speed and Power Capacity
Type 1 EV chargers usually work with single-phase AC power and can charge at a maximum rate of 7.4 kW. This means that Type 1 chargers take longer to charge than Type 2 ones.
Type 2 chargers can charge devices with either single-phase or three-phase AC electricity at speeds of up to 22 kW. Because of this larger power capacity, the compatible vehicles charge faster.
For instance, a Kia Soul EV with a Type 2 connector can charge up to three times faster than a vehicle with a Type 1 connector when it is plugged into the right charging station.
How Does a Type 2 Charger Work?
A Type 2 EV charger connects your car’s onboard charger to an AC power supply. The charger provides alternating current (AC), and your car’s internal circuitry converts this AC to direct current (DC) to charge the battery.
- Single-phase power typically provides a 3.7 kW to 7.4 kW charging speed.
- Three-phase power can deliver up to 22 kW to home or business chargers.
- Rapid charging: With DC fast chargers (using CCS, which combines Type 2), it can deliver speeds of 50-350 kW.
This makes Type 2 extremely versatile, which can support you with anything from overnight home charging to ultra-fast freeway charging.
Key Features of Type 2 EV Chargers
Now, have a glance at the key specs of the Type 2 Charger.
1. Universal compatibility in Europe: The Type 2 EV charger works with most EVs and plug-in hybrids. It complies with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standard IEC 62196, ensuring that it meets safety and performance standards.
2. Supports multiple charging speeds: From sluggish to ultra-fast, Type 2 is always in blend with any speed.
3. Automatic locking mechanism: It minimises cable theft and increases safety.
4. Rugged construction: This type 2 EV charger is resistant to dust, rain, and wear.
5. Smart charging options: Many Type 2 chargers allow apps, Wi-Fi, and load balancing.
Charging Speed and Power Output of Type 2 EV Connector
The charging rate of a Type 2 EV charger depends on three factors:
- Charger power rating (in kW).
- Your car’s onboard charging capacity.
- Power supply (single or three-phase).
Let’s look at the Typical Type 2 Charging Speeds now.
- 3.7 kW requires around 12 hours for a full charge (standard home socket). 7.4 kW can power a dedicated home wallbox for around 6-8 hours.
- With three-phase power and a public or office charger, 11-22 kW can last approximately 3-5 hours.
- 50-350 kW (with CCS) can charge to 80% in 20-40 minutes (motorway rapid charging).
Technical Specifications of Type 2 EV Chargers
Type 2 chargers have a variety of technical parameters customised to different charging requirements. They are tailored to accommodate both AC and DC charging, which makes them extremely versatile, like I said earlier.
AC Charging: The Type 2 connector normally allows for AC charging at power levels ranging from 3.7 kW to 22 kW. AC charging can be done with either a single or three-phase power supply. Single-phase charging is common in home settings and can give you up to 7.4 kW. But three-phase charging is frequently used in commercial or public charging stations and can deliver up to 22 kW. The speed of AC charging is determined by the charging station’s power output as well as the vehicle’s onboard charge capacity.
DC Charging: The Type 2 connector works with DC charging methods as well. In addition to Type 2, DC fast charging often uses a different connector called CCS (Combined Charging System). DC fast charging may provide you up to 350 kW of power, which means that charging takes substantially less time than AC charging. This is quite helpful for excursions that are vast distances and for charging stations that are open to the public.
Voltage and Current: Type 2 chargers work at different voltage levels, usually between 230V for single-phase systems and 400V for three-phase systems. The current changes based on the power level, and for AC charging, it usually ranges from 16A to 32A.
What Is a Type 2 EV Charger Used For?
You can use a Type 2 EV charger to charge your electric vehicle every day at home, in public areas, and at work. It can be used for a variety of charging speeds and is meant to be the go-to way to charge electric vehicles in the UK.
This is what a type 2 charger is used for:
- Type 2 Chargers for Home Use
If you are an EV owner, a home Type 2 wallbox charger is the most practical solution for you. You can install it as a wallbox at home. Then, you can charge your phone overnight when electricity is cheaper. So, always start your day with a full battery. You can also utilise its smart charging features, including timing and solar panel integration.
2. Type 2 Charging Station in Public
Type 2 plugs are the most common type of public charging infrastructure in the UK. You can find them at grocery stores, parking lots, gas stations, and workplaces.
The benefits of public Type 2 charging are that it can access three-phase charging at 22 kW. Besides, it works with most electric vehicles and is more connected to apps that let you pay with your phone.
3. Charging at Work
A lot of businesses put Type 2 chargers in for their employees and customers. A Type 2 charger can be connected to smart charging systems to manage loads.
4. Works with all EV brands
Type 2 EV connectors are used by most big car companies, like Tesla (in Europe), BMW, Audi, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Hyundai, Kia, Renault, and others.
Benefits of Using Type 2 Chargers
The Type 2 charger has a lot of benefits that make it a popular choice for EV owners:
Widespread Availability: Type 2 chargers are easy to find in public charging networks and homes, making it easy to find charging infrastructure.
Cost-Effectiveness: Type 2 chargers are quite cheap compared to some other charging options. This makes them a good choice for both personal and business use.
Environmental Impact: Type 2 chargers enable more people to utilise electric vehicles by providing a standard connector. This helps lower greenhouse gas emissions and encourages sustainable mobility.
Improved User Experience: Standardisation and compatibility make charging easier, so it’s easier for users to identify and utilise charging stations.
What Is a Type 2 EV Charger Cost?
The price of a Type 2 EV charger varies based on the type of charger, how much power it needs, and how it needs to be installed. Prices in the UK might be very different depending on whether you choose a simple wallbox or a smart charger that works with Wi-Fi, an app, and solar power.
A Type 2 home EV charger in the UK costs around £700–£1,300, while public charging costs vary by provider.
1. The average price of a Type 2 EV home charger in the UK in 2025
Charger unit only: £400 to £800
Installation by a professional: £300–£500
The whole cost, including both the supply and installation, is between £700 and £1,300.
2. The cost of public Type 2 charging
Type 2 connections at public charging stations frequently charge by the pence per kWh.
In 2025, the average price in the UK will be 40p to 80p per kWh.
For instance, if you charge a 60 kWh EV battery at public rates, it might cost between £24 and £48.
How to Install a Type 2 EV Charger at Home?
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set up a Type 2 charging station at home:
- Check Your Electrical System
Before you install a Type 2 charging station, hire a certified electrician to check your home’s electrical system to be sure it can take the extra load. This could mean looking at your electrical panel, wiring, and overall capacity.
- Pick the Right Charging Station
Choose a Type 2 charging station that works for you. Think about things like how fast it charges, how much power it has (for example, 7.4 kW or 22 kW), and any smart features it may have, like Wi-Fi or scheduling.
- Get the Right licenses
In some places, you might require licenses to put in a charging station. Before you start the installation, make sure you check the rules in your area and get any licenses you need.
- Install the Charging Station
Get a professional electrician to put in the charging station. Most of the time, the installation includes putting the unit on a wall, connecting it to your home electrical system, and setting it up as needed.
- Check the Installation
After putting it together, check the charging station to make sure it works. Make sure it talks to your EV correctly and gives the right amount of electricity.
- Think About Future Upgrades
Talk to your electrician about any plans you have to improve your EV or add more electrical capacity to your home in the future. This will make sure that your charging station can handle any modifications.
- Safety and Maintenance
Check the charging station often for any signs of damage or wear. Keep the area around the station clear and neat. If you have any problems, get in touch with the manufacturer or an expert for help.
Future of Type 2 Charging Technology
There are a lot of good things coming up with Type 2 charging technology in the future:
Faster Charging: Ongoing improvements are being made to make charging faster, which will cut down on the time it takes to charge EVs. Type 2 chargers should work better thanks to improvements in both AC and DC charging methods.
Smart Grid Integration: Type 2 chargers may work with smart grid systems, which would make it easier to control energy and encourage the use of renewable energy sources.
More Features: Future Type 2 chargers may have more sophisticated features, including wireless charging, more safety features, and better user interfaces.
More charging stations: As charging infrastructure grows, there will be more Type 2 chargers available, which makes it easier for EV owners to charge their cars in many places.
Conclusion
So, what is a Type 2 EV charger? I hope you know all the details by now.
The Type 2 EV charger is now the gold standard for charging electric vehicles in Europe and the UK. It’s the greatest choice for charging at home and in public because it works with all devices, charges faster, and is built to last.
If you’re thinking about getting a home wallbox or just want to know how EV charging works, it’s important for all EV drivers to grasp what Type 2 chargers do.
Type 2 charging will be the most important part of Europe’s electric vehicle ecosystem for years to come, even as the globe moves toward cleaner transportation.
FAQ
What cars use a Type 2 charger?
Most modern electric cars and plug-in hybrids in the UK and Europe use Type 2 chargers. Popular brands include Tesla (in Europe), BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Hyundai, Kia, Renault, Nissan (newer models), and Volvo. As the EU made Type 2 the standard connector in 2014, almost all new EVs can use it.
What does a Type 2 plug look like?
A Type 2 plug is spherical with a flat edge and has seven pins inside. The pins are set up in such a way that allows both single-phase and three-phase AC charging. It is a little bigger than a Type 1 plug and contains a safety function that locks it automatically.
Can my house handle a Level 2 EV charger?
Yes, in most cases, UK homes can support a Level 2 (Type 2) EV charger, which usually runs on a 7.4 kW single-phase supply. But if you want a 22 kW three-phase charger, your home would need a three-phase electrical connection (rare in UK households). An installer will assess your fuse capacity and wiring before installation to confirm.
Can you plug a Type 2 into a CCS?
Yes, you can. The CCS (Combined Charging System) connector is based on the Type 2 design. The top part is the same as Type 2 for AC charging, but there are two extra pins below for DC fast charging. This means a Type 2 plug will fit into the upper part of a CCS socket for AC charging.