Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more common, and with that, the need for reliable ev charging infrastructure grows. Just like phones have different chargers, EVs use various connectors to get power. One important system is the Combined Charging System (CCS), which is designed to make charging simpler and faster.

EV charging works by moving electricity from a power source to the vehicle’s battery. There are two main types of current used: alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC). AC is what comes from most home outlets, but EV batteries need DC to store energy. That’s why many chargers have built-in converters, except for fast chargers that send DC straight to the battery.

The CCS is a global standard that combines AC and DC charging in one connector. This means drivers can use the same plug for slow charging at home and fast charging on the road. It’s widely used in many countries, making it easier for EV owners to find compatible stations.

CCS Type 1 Connector Explained

Defining the CCS Type 1 Connector

Imagine charging an electric car. In North America, the most common plug for regular slow charging looks like a round head with holes, and this standard is called J1772. Think of CCS Type 1 as an ‘upgraded version’ of that basic slow-charging plug. The clever part is that it keeps the familiar round section for slow charging exactly as it is. Then, engineers simply added two extra metal pins directly below it. Don’t underestimate these small pins – they give the whole connector a powerful new ability! The original round part (J1772) can only handle slower charging, like when you plug in overnight at home or while shopping at a mall (using AC power). But by adding these two pins below, the combined connector (CCS Type 1) can now handle both slow charging and fast charging. When you’re in a hurry and need a quick charge, you just find a fast-charging station. Its charging cable will plug into both the round holes and the two pins below. Those extra pins deliver powerful direct current (DC) electricity straight into the battery very quickly. The biggest advantage? Convenience. Your car only needs this one CCS Type 1 port. Whether you need everyday slow charging or urgent fast charging, this single connector handles it all. You don’t need two separate ports for different charging speeds, saving both money and space on the car.

Physical Characteristics and Appearance

The CCS Type 1 connector has a familiar look if you’ve seen a J1772 plug. It’s a flat, rectangular shape with five pins for AC charging. Below these pins, there are two more pins for DC fast charging. This design keeps it compact enough to handle easily, even with the extra pins. The connector is also built to be durable, with weather-resistant materials to work in rain or snow.

How does CCS Type 1 charging work?

When you plug a CCS Type 1 connector into your EV, the first thing that happens is communication between the car and the charger. They check each other to make sure they’re compatible. For AC charging, the power goes through the car’s onboard converter to turn it into DC for the battery. For DC fast charging, the charger does the converting, sending high-power DC straight to the battery. This skips the car’s converter, making charging much faster.

Communication Protocols Used

CCS Type 1 uses a protocol called ISO 15118, which lets the car and charger “talk” to each other securely. This protocol allows for features like Plug & Charge, where you just plug in and walk away—no need to swipe a card or use an app. The car and charger handle payment and authentication automatically, making the process super easy.

CCS Type 1 Compatibility

Which EVs use CCS Type 1?

Many popular EV models in North America use CCS Type 1. This includes cars like the Chevrolet Bolt, BMW i4, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Kia EV6. Even some Tesla models can use CCS Type 1 with an adapter. According to recent data, over 80% of non-Tesla EVs sold in the U.S. in 2024 are compatible with CCS Type 1 (EV Charging Stations – A Must-Know Buying Guide!.docx).

Regional prevalence (North America, etc.)

CCS Type 1 is the main fast-charging standard in the United States and Canada. You’ll find these connectors at most public fast-charging stations, from highway rest stops to shopping centers. In contrast, Europe uses CCS Type 2, and Asia has other standards like CHAdeMO and GB/T. This focus on one standard in North America makes it easier for drivers to find compatible stations.

CCS Type 1 vs. other standards (CHAdeMO, GB/T)

As the table shows, CCS Type 1 offers faster charging than CHAdeMO in most cases and is more widely used in North America than GB/T. Its combined AC/DC design also means fewer plugs to worry about.

Advantages of CCS Type 1

Fast Charging Capabilities

CCS Type 1 stands out for its incredible speed. A high-power 350 kW CCS Type 1 charger can add over 200 miles of driving range in just 20 minutes – perfect for road trips where long charging waits would ruin your plans. Even more common 50 kW CCS stations deliver significant boosts, adding 60-80 miles in the same 20 minutes. That’s dramatically faster than standard Level 2 chargers you might use at home or work, making CCS Type 1 ideal when you’re in a hurry.

One Plug for Everything: AC + DC Charging

Unlike older systems that require separate plugs for different charging speeds, CCS Type 1 combines both capabilities into a single connector. Use the exact same port to slowly charge overnight at home with a Level 2 (240V) station, then plug into a powerful DC fast charger on the highway later that day. This flexibility means no carrying extra adapters or hunting for special plugs – just one simple solution for all your charging needs.

Built-In Safety First

Safety is engineered into CCS Type 1 at every step. The connector features ground-fault protection to prevent electric shocks, and its smart communication system runs automatic checks between the charger and your car before any electricity flows. If issues like power surges, overheating, or short circuits are detected, charging instantly stops. This protects your vehicle’s battery, the charging equipment, and most importantly – you.

Disadvantages of CCS Type 1

Limited global adoption

While great for North America, CCS Type 1 isn’t used worldwide. If you take your EV to Europe or Asia, you’ll need an adapter to use local stations. This can be a hassle for international travelers and limits the global appeal of CCS Type 1 vehicles.

Competition from other standards

Tesla’s NACS (North American Charging Standard) is becoming more popular in the U.S., with many automakers switching to it. This could mean fewer new CCS Type 1 stations in the future, though most stations will likely offer both for years to come.

Future of CCS Type 1

Projected growth and development

The U.S. government is investing billions in charging infrastructure, and much of that will go to CCS Type 1 stations. By 2030, experts predict over 500,000 public charging stations in the U.S., with most offering CCS Type 1 (EV Charging Stations – A Must-Know Buying Guide!.docx). Companies like Electrify America and EVgo are also expanding their CCS Type 1 networks, making it easier to find fast chargers.

Impact of evolving EV technology

As EV batteries get better, CCS Type 1 is evolving too. New chargers with 480V or higher power are being built, which can handle the next generation of EVs with bigger batteries. This means CCS Type 1 will stay relevant even as cars become more advanced.

Using CCS Type 1 Charging Stations

Finding online resources and apps

Apps like PlugShare and Electrify America’s app show real-time locations of CCS Type 1 stations. They tell you if a station is in use, how powerful it is, and even if it’s free or requires payment. Many also let you start and stop charging from your phone, making the process seamless.

Planning trips with CCS Type 1 in mind

When road-tripping, plan your route around CCS Type 1 stations. Most EVs have built-in navigation that shows charging stops, but it’s good to double-check with apps. Aim to stop when your battery is around 20-30% full, so you have enough range to reach the next station if there’s a wait.

Maintaining Your CCS Type 1 Connector

Best practices for care and upkeep

Keep the connector clean and dry. If it gets dirty, wipe it gently with a dry cloth—never use water or cleaning products. When not in use, coil the cable neatly to avoid damaging the wires. Also, check the plug for cracks or bent pins regularly, as damage can slow down charging or cause safety issues.

Troubleshooting common issues

If your CCS Type 1 connector isn’t working, try these steps: first, make sure the plug is fully inserted—sometimes it needs a firm push. If that doesn’t work, check if the station is powered on (look for lights or a screen). If the station is down, use an app to find another nearby. For home chargers, resetting the circuit breaker might fix minor issues.

Choosing the Right Partner to Buy a Good CCS Type 1 Connector!

Selecting a vendor for a CCS Type 1 Connector infrastructure can make or break an operator’s timeline and budget. This paragraph distils the core criteria that executives can weigh before signing a contract.

Prioritize Certified Manufacturers and Compliant Products

When sourcing a CCS Type 1 Connector, always look for an EV charging supplier that holds internationally recognized certifications such as IATF16949, ISO9001, and IPC620. These reflect a commitment to quality management and production consistency.
It’s also advisable to choose a charging manufacturer with an EVITP-certified team to ensure full compliance with regional safety standards like the NEC.

Regional Expertise and Market Experience

An ideal charging manufacturer should have proven expertise in your operating market. For instance, in North America, suppliers familiar with local climate conditions, grid specifications, and common EV models can offer more suitable solutions.
A reliable EV charging supplier will understand real-world challenges—such as temperature extremes and high usage scenarios—and design products that perform reliably under those conditions.

Innovation and R&D Capabilities

Leading charging manufacturers invest significantly in research and development, driving innovation through features such as robust housing with IP54 rating for resistance against dust and water, advanced materials like silver-plated conductors for higher conductivity and efficiency, and support for high-power charging up to 350kW. Ongoing efforts to achieve additional certifications—such as UL listing—further demonstrate the supplier’s dedication to quality, safety, and market-aligned innovation.

Proven Reliability and Broad Compatibility

A reputable EV charging supplier will offer products tested and validated across various applications—from automakers to public charging networks.
Choose connectors designed to endure harsh environments (e.g., operating reliably from -30°C to 50°C) and compatible with major EV models including Chevrolet Bolt, BMW i4, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Tesla (via adapter).

End-to-End Technical and Service Support

It is highly recommended to choose a ev charging manufacturer that offers continuous and comprehensive customer support. This includes 24/7 technical assistance for troubleshooting and firmware updates, OCPP-compliant products that enable remote monitoring and diagnostics, as well as pre-sales consultation to design tailored charging solutions based on specific application scenarios. These services play a critical role in minimizing downtime and optimizing the total cost of ownership.

By evaluating potential EV charging suppliers based on these criteria, you can confidently select a CCS Type 1 Connector that combines safety, durability, and performance.

FAQs

Q: How long does it take to fully charge an EV with a CCS Type 1 DC fast charger?

A: The charging time depends on the charger’s power and the EV’s battery size. A 350 kW CCS Type 1 charger can add 200+ miles of range in about 20 minutes. For a full charge (from 0 to 100%), a 350 kW charger might take 30–45 minutes for most EVs, while a 50 kW charger could take 1.5–2.5 hours.

Q: Are there any safety risks when using a CCS Type 1 connector in bad weather?

A: CCS Type 1 connectors are built with weather-resistant materials, so they’re safe to use in rain, snow, or light rain. However, it’s still best to avoid using them in extreme conditions (like heavy flooding) to prevent damage. The connector’s design includes ground-fault protection and automatic shutoff features to minimize safety risks.

Q: What should I do if my EV doesn’t recognize the CCS Type 1 connector?

A: First, check if the connector is fully inserted—sometimes a firm push is needed. If that doesn’t work, try restarting the charger or your EV. If the issue persists, the charger may be faulty, so use an app (like PlugShare) to find another nearby station. For recurring problems, contact your EV manufacturer to check for software updates or connector compatibility issues.

Q: Can I use a CCS Type 1 connector with a regular household outlet?

A: No, a CCS Type 1 connector isn’t designed for regular household outlets (which are typically 120V AC). It’s primarily used with Level 2 AC chargers (240V) for slower charging and DC fast chargers for high-power charging. To charge from a household outlet, you’d need a separate Level 1 charger that uses a standard plug, not the CCS Type 1 connector.

Conclusion

From the above information, you now understand this key CCS Type 1 connector in the North American market, along with its advantages (such as fast charging, AC/DC compatibility, and safety) and challenges (global acceptance, competition). As the industry moves towards high-power charging and renewable energy integration, it is crucial to make informed choices about charging equipment that meets your needs. Choose OLINKEVSE, and you’ll get professional guidance and high-quality equipment, enabling you to start an efficient charging experience easily and confidently from today onwards.