Charging Connector Types
There are four main types of charging connectors used for electric vehicles (EVs).
- J1772 – This connector works for Level 1 (120-volt) and Level 2 (240-volt) charging. All EVs, except Tesla, use this connector. Tesla vehicles can also use J1772 if they have an adapter. Most Teslas come with this adapter.
- CCS-1 – This connector works for DC Fast Charging. Most EVs (except Tesla, some Nissan models, and a few Mitsubishi vehicles) use CCS-1.
- CHAdeMO – This connector also works for DC Fast Charging, but it is uncommon in the U.S. Only a few vehicles, like older Nissan and Mitsubishi EVs, use CHAdeMO.
- NACS – This is Tesla’s own connector. It works for Level 1, Level 2, and DC Fast Charging. Most fast chargers with NACS connectors are part of Tesla’s Supercharger network. All new Tesla vehicles use NACS. Starting in 2025, many other car brands (like Ford, Rivian, GM, Mercedes, Nissan, Hyundai, and Polestar) will also start using NACS. To make things easier, some companies already sell adapters that let CCS-1 vehicles use NACS chargers.
Charging at Home
Charging your EV at home is easy and convenient. Here’s how to do it:
Using a Standard Outlet
Most EVs come with a charging cable that plugs into a regular wall outlet (this is called Level 1 charging). Level 1 is slow, adding about 3-5 miles of driving range per hour. This works fine if you charge overnight and don’t drive far each day.
Installing a Faster Home Charger
For quicker charging, you can install a Level 2 charging station. Level 2 needs a 240-volt outlet (like the one used for dryers). Some stations plug into an outlet, and others need to be hardwired to your home’s electric panel. You will probably need an electrician to set this up. Level 2 charging adds around 20-40 miles of range per hour.
Steps to Charge at Home
- Park near the charging outlet.
- Plug one end of the cable into your car’s charging port.
- Plug the other end into the outlet or charging station.
- Check the charging status on your car’s screen or app.
- When charging is done, unplug the cable and store it.
Charging on the Road
When driving longer distances, you’ll need to use public charging stations. Here’s how:
Finding a Charging Station
You can find charging stations using apps or websites. These tools tell you:
- Where stations are
- What type of chargers they have (Level 2 or Fast Charging)
- If they are in use or available
- How much charging will cost
Make sure the station has the right connector for your EV.
Types of Public Chargers
- Level 2 Chargers (J1772 and NACS): These are common in parking lots, shopping centers, and workplaces. They charge faster than a regular outlet, similar to a home Level 2 charger.
- DC Fast Chargers (CCS-1 and NACS): These are much faster and can charge your car to 80% in about 20-30 minutes. They are usually along highways and busy travel routes, perfect for road trips.
Steps to Charge on the Road
- Park at the charging station.
- Plug the cable into your car’s port.
- Follow the station’s instructions (you may need to use an app, card, or credit card to pay).
- Watch the charging progress on the station screen or your app.
- When charging is done, unplug the cable and put it back where it belongs. Then, you’re ready to go!
⚠️ Note: Some stations charge a fee if you leave your car plugged in after charging is done.
Helpful Charging Tips
- Charge overnight at home to save money if your electricity rate is cheaper at night.
- Plan ahead for road trips so you know where to find chargers along the way.
- A Level 2 charger at home can save a lot of time.
Charging your EV is easy once you know the basics. With the right tools and a little planning, you can keep your car ready to go wherever you need.