Type 2 and CCS2 Connectors in Europe
An overview of the two widely used connector families and what a project needs to verify.
Type 2
Type 2 is the established AC interface for European public charging. Connector selection must be checked against the vehicle, equipment, cable, power and applicable standards.
CCS Combo 2
Combo 2 (CCS2) is the established European DC interface for interoperable high-power public charging. The connector is only one part of compatibility; the vehicle, control system and rated limits must also align.
Public sites
EU interoperability requirements are tied to the applicable regulation and deployment conditions. Projects should verify the current technical specification rather than treating all sites and vehicle categories as identical.
Connector family is not a complete specification
Type 2 is widely used for AC charging in Europe, while CCS Combo 2 is the established DC family for many public sites. Check socket versus tethered cable, contact ratings, the vehicle inlet, cable cooling where relevant and supported communication.
Public infrastructure and compliance
A connector standard does not establish regulatory conformity. Check current AFIR deployment conditions, relevant harmonised standards and national rules. Ask for product-model documentation, not a generic connector picture.
Does CCS2 guarantee that every vehicle charges at the station maximum?
No. Vehicle voltage range, current acceptance, thermal conditions and control negotiation can reduce delivered power.
Primary references
- European Alternative Fuels Observatory — Recharging systems ↗
- EUR-Lex — Regulation (EU) 2023/1804 (consolidated) ↗
Educational content, not installation or legal advice. Check current standards and local requirements.
Planning an EV charging project or sourcing enquiry?
CowinLink Limited works with manufacturing partners on EV charging sourcing, OEM/ODM and distribution enquiries. Share the target market, installation use case, preferred interface and estimated quantity; model specifications and compliance are checked for each project.
Discuss your project →