Purchase Guide

How to Select an Suitable EV Charger for your car ?

Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining global traction thanks to their eco-friendly energy use and high-efficiency performance. However, the rapid growth of EV adoption has made it critical to develop robust charging infrastructure to meet surging demand. A key element of this infrastructure is the EV charging connectors, sockets, and plugs used by both vehicles and charging stations.

These components vary widely by region, vehicle type, and charging station specifications—there is no universal "one-size-fits-all" solution. As such, a comprehensive understanding of the diverse EV connectors, sockets, and plugs available worldwide is essential.

This knowledge is vital for EV owners, charging station operators and installers, as well as policymakers. This complete guide will break down the differences between major EV connector types, their regional availability, charging speeds, and more. Below is a visual overview of the EV connectors currently on the market.

First, select and determine the type of your Plug Type

Type 1 SAE J1772

🔍 Basic Definition & Scope of Application

The Type 1 SAE J1772 AC charging connector is defined by the SAE J1772 standard set by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), representing a hallmark of American-standard charging technology. It is widely used in North America and some international markets, with numerous electric vehicles sold in North America such as the Chevrolet Volt, Nissan Leaf, and Ford Focus Electric being compatible with this interface.

⚡️ Core Technical Parameters

Voltage & Current: It covers a rated voltage range of 120V - 250VAC, with some products supporting higher voltages. Rated current specifications include 16A, 32A, 40A, 48A, 50A, etc., corresponding to maximum power outputs of approximately 3.7kW, 7.4kW, 10kW, 12kW, 12.5kW respectively, meeting charging needs in different scenarios.
Electrical Performance: Insulation resistance is not less than 1000MΩ (DC500V), terminal temperature rise does not exceed 50K, it can withstand a 2500VAC voltage test for 1 minute, and contact impedance is at most 0.5mΩ, ensuring charging safety and stability.
Protection Rating: In the mated state, the protection rating can reach IP54 or even IP55 in some cases, offering excellent dustproof and waterproof capabilities to adapt to various outdoor environments.

Type 2 IEC 62196

🔍 Basic Definition and Scope of Application
The Type 2 IEC 62196 AC charging connector is an AC charging interface defined by the IEC 62196 standard formulated by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). It is a representative of European standard charging technology and is widely used in European countries and regions, as well as some international markets. A large number of electric vehicles sold in Europe, such as Volkswagen ID. series, Tesla Model 3 (European version), and BMW iX, are compatible with this interface.Note: Cars currently manufactured in Europe also use the Type 2 socket standard, such as BYD, Geely, and MG.

⚡️ Core Technical Parameters

Voltage and Current: The rated voltage covers 220V - 480VAC, and some products can support higher voltages. The rated current has multiple specifications such as 16A, 32A, with corresponding maximum powers of approximately 3.5kW, 7kW, 11kWand 22kW respectively, Available in single-phase and three-phase versions which can meet charging needs in different scenarios.

Electrical Performance: The insulation resistance is not less than 1000MΩ (DC500V), the terminal temperature rise does not exceed 50K, it can withstand a withstand voltage test of 2500VAC for 1 minute, and the maximum contact impedance does not exceed 0.5mΩ, ensuring the safety and stability of the charging process.

Protection Level: The protection level in the mated state can reach IP67, which has excellent dustproof and waterproof capabilities and can adapt to various outdoor environments.

GB/T 20234

📌 Basic Overview

Standard Status: Officially released and implemented in China, with the latest version being GB/T 20234.2-2015 (replacing the 2011 version).
Core Purpose: To unify the design, performance, and safety requirements of AC charging connectors for electric vehicles in the Chinese market, ensuring compatibility between charging piles and EVs.
Application Scope: Applicable to AC charging scenarios of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), including home wall-mounted chargers, public charging piles, and portable charging cord sets.

⚡️ Core Technical Parameters

Voltage and Current: The rated voltage covers 220V - 480VAC, and some products can support higher voltages. The rated current has multiple specifications such as 16A, 32A, with corresponding maximum powers of approximately 3.5kW, 7kW, 11kW and 22kW respectively, Available in single-phase and three-phase versions which can meet charging needs in different scenarios.

Protection Level: The protection level in the mated state can reach IP67, which has excellent dustproof and waterproof capabilities and can adapt to various outdoor environments.

NACS

Introduction to NACS AC Connector

The North American Charging Standard (NACS) AC connector is a key component in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, developed by Tesla and now widely adopted across North America and beyond. Below is a detailed overview of its core features, specifications, and market impact:

🔌 Design & Technical Specifications

Compact Form Factor:Significantly smaller and lighter than competing standards like CCS1, making it easier for users to handle and storeIntegrated communication pins and power contacts in a single streamlined housing
Electrical Ratings:Supports single-phase AC charging up to 19.2 kW (80A at 240V)Compatible with both Level 1 (120V household outlets) and Level 2 (240V dedicated chargers) ;
Voltage & Current: It covers a rated voltage range of 120V - 250VAC, with some products supporting higher voltages. Rated current specifications include 16A, 32A, 40A, 48A, 50A, etc., corresponding to maximum power outputs of approximately 3.5kW, 7.4kW, 9.6kW, 12kW, respectively, meeting charging needs in different scenarios.chargingBackward compatible with legacy Tesla vehicles and new EV models from various manufacturers
Smart Features:Built-in communication protocol for seamless vehicle-to-charger interactionAutomatic locking mechanism for secure connection during charging sessionsOvercurrent, overvoltage, and overheating protection systems

🚗 Compatibility & Adoption

Tesla Ecosystem:Original equipment for all Tesla vehicles sold in North AmericaCompatible with Tesla's home charging solutions (Wall Connector) and destination chargers
Industry Adoption:Adopted by major automakers including Ford, GM, Volvo, Polestar, Rivian, and Mercedes-BenzExpected to become the dominant AC charging standard in North America by 2025

Select your charger rate

Based on the information above, you can determine your car's plug type: Type 1 / Type 2 / GBT / NACS.

Type 2 / GBT is further divided into single-phase and three-phase.

According to the current mainstream AC charger power classification, you may have the following options:

1. Type 1 (1 phase 16A - 3.5kW; 1 phase 32A - 7kW; 1 phase 40A - 9.6kW; 1 phase 50A - 12kW)

2. Type 2 (1 phase 16A - 3.5kW; 1 phase 32A - 7kW; 3 phase 16A - 11kW; 3 phase 32A - 22kW)

3. GB/T (1 phase 16A - 3.5kW; 1 phase 32A - 7kW; 3 phase 16A - 11kW; 3 phase 32A-22kW)

4. Tesla / NACS ( 1 phase 16A - 3.5kW; 1 phase 32A - 7kW; 1 phase 40A - 9.6kW; 1 phase 50A - 12kW)

Confirm the phase of your household electricity Supply

Determine whether your household electricity is single-phase or three-phase by checking your household electricity meter.

To the video

What is the maximum current your home wiring can Load?

>>Reference link

1. **Upper Limit at the Inlet:** Electricity Meter and Main Circuit Breaker

This is the main source of your home's electricity, determining the absolute maximum capacity.

Check the Main Breaker: In the distribution box (high-voltage box), find the largest switch, usually located independently on top. The numbers marked on it (e.g., 63A, 100A) indicate the total current limit for the entire household.

Check the Meter Parameters: Check the outdoor or hallway meter. It usually indicates the current range, such as 5(60)A, where 60A in parentheses is the maximum rated current supported by the meter.

2. **Foundation at the Hardware End:** Wire Thickness (Wire Diameter)

This is the most critical safety indicator. A larger switch can be used, but overloaded wires can overheat and catch fire.

Check the Wire Diameter (Sq.m.): Observe the insulation of the wires inside the distribution box; the specifications are usually printed on them (e.g., 2.5mm², 4mm²). 2.5mm²: Safe load is approximately 16A-20A (approximately 3.5kW - 4.4kW).

4mm²: Safe load is approximately 25A-32A (approximately 5.5kW - 7kW).

6mm²: Safe load is approximately 32A-40A (approximately 7kW - 9.6kW).

8mm²: Safe load is approximately 35A-45A (approximately 8.4kW - 10.8kW).

10mm²: Safe load is approximately 45A-55A (approximately 11kW - 13kW).

Total household load current - Current of everyday household appliances = Available current for charging station

Based on the information above, you now know what power level of charging station you need to purchase. The next step is product selection.

EV Charger Types

Portable ev charger
Portable Charger: Plug and Play: No professional electrician is required for installation. It's like an oversized phone charging cable; one end plugs into your car, and the other into an existing industrial outlet (such as a CEE blue/red plug) or a standard household outlet (Schuko).
Carry-on: Can be kept in the trunk for emergency use while traveling, returning home, or visiting a friend's house without a charging station.
Mainstream Power: Typically 3.5kW (single-phase 16A) or 7kW (single-phase 32A). High-end three-phase versions can reach 11kW/22kW, but require a suitable industrial outlet at your destination.
Limitations: When using a standard household three-prong outlet (Schuko), the power is usually limited to around 2.3kW, resulting in extremely slow charging (only adding about 15 kilometers of range per hour).
Simple Functionality: Usually only provides basic current switching and a simple screen display.
Low level of intelligence: Although high-end models of Feyree or Zencar now support apps, most do not have complex energy management functions.
Wall-mount ev charger
Wall-mounted charging stations:
* Fixed installation: Typically requires a professional electrician to mount it on a garage wall or pillar and hardwire it directly to the house's electrical panel.
* High stability: Once installed, simply remove the charging head and insert it into the vehicle; operation is similar to a gas station, eliminating the need to retrieve it from the trunk each time.
* Mainstream power: Commonly used in homes are 7kW (single-phase), 9.6kW (single-phase), 12kW (single-phase), 11kW (three-phase), or 22kW (three-phase).
* Advantages: Designed for extended high-power operation. An 11kW Wallbox can fully charge most mainstream electric vehicles (such as the Tesla Model 3 or Volkswagen ID.4) in 6-8 hours, perfectly suited for "parking overnight, fully charged in the morning."
* Energy management: Supports dynamic load balancing (preventing home circuit breakers from tripping) and solar linkage (using excess electricity from solar panels for charging).
* Commercial/shared functionality: Supports RFID card swiping, multi-user authorization, and OCPP protocol, suitable for installation in office buildings or rental apartments.

Different countries typically use different plug types. Please specify the type of plug you need when purchasing, such as 5-15P, UK PLUG, Brazilian plug, Swiss plug, etc.

Note:

Schuko plugs generally handle 16A of current, corresponding to a power output of approximately 240V * 16A ≈ 3.5kW.

UK PLUG plugs typically handle 13A of current, corresponding to a power output of approximately 240V * 13A ≈ 3.1kW.

The power output will vary depending on the plug type..

>>See Country Plug type

Next, let's summarize. Based on the information above, we now know:

1. What type of plug does your car need: Type 1, Type 2, GBT, NACS;

2. Is your car charging single-phase or three-phase?

3. Is your home's electricity single-phase or three-phase?

4. What is the current capacity of your home's electrical system?

5. What is the current you can supply to your car:

3.5kW (single phase 16A)

7kW (single phase 32A)

9.6kW (single phase 40A)

11kW (three phase 16A)

12kW (single phase 50A)

22kW (three phase 16A)