CCS1 Connector for Charging Electric Vehicles: Overview, Benefits and Features

With the development of electric vehicles, charging station infrastructure has become an important element of their use. Drivers of electric vehicles need convenient, versatile and fast charging solutions for their vehicles to reduce the time to connect and ensure stable vehicle performance. For this purpose, charging connector standards play an important role, one of which is the Combined Charging System (CCS). CCS is an international standard for charging electric vehicles and combines several technologies that allow for different types of current to be used for charging. One of the main types of this standard is the CCS1 connector.

CCS1 has become a key element in enabling fast and universal charging in North America. The standard was designed to meet the needs of the electric vehicle market while ensuring compatibility with a variety of charging stations and vehicles. As a result, CCS1 has become the most widely adopted standard for charging electric vehicles in the US and Canada, and its use continues to grow every year.

We remind you that you can purchase home and commercial charging stations in our online storeand also use the public charging stations ECOFACTORcharging points located throughout Ukraine. For convenient access to charging infrastructure, we recommend using our mobile applicationwhich is available on iOS and Android.

In this context, it is important to understand what CCS1 is, how it works, what benefits it provides, and what differences exist between CCS1 and other standards such as CCS2. In this article, we will take a closer look at the features of the CCS1 connector, its application, benefits for electric car owners and the various technical aspects that make it an important element of charging infrastructure.

What is the CCS1 Connector?

CCS1 (Combined Charging System Type 1) is one of the standards for charging connectors for electric vehicles that combines both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) charging capabilities. This type of connector was developed to provide versatility, speed and convenience for charging electric vehicles, allowing cars to be charged at different charging stations, regardless of the type of charging.

It is important to note that the CCS1 and CCS2 have the same maximum charging capacity (up to 350 kW) and the difference between them is not in charging speed but in connector type and regional usage. The CCS1 uses a Type 1 connector, which is typical for North America, while the CCS2, which is widely used in Europe, has a different type of connector for alternating current (AC) Type 2.

In the mid-2000s, when the electric vehicle market began to grow rapidly, there was a need for a universal charging standard that would support different types of electric vehicles, charging station infrastructure and different types of power sources. The CCS1 standard is the answer to this need, combining a traditional AC charging connector with the latest DC charging capabilities. This combination allows for shorter charging times and greater convenience for electric vehicle drivers.

Thanks to this standard, drivers can quickly find CCS1-compliant charging stations and use connectors that are compatible with most electric vehicles, making it extremely popular in many countries, including North America. However, it is worth noting that in Europe and some other regions, the CCS2 standard, which is its improved version, is more popular.

Advantages:

• Fast charging: Enables high charging speeds with direct current (DC) support.
• Versatility: It is supported by many modern cars, including models aimed at the North American market.
• Widely used in North America: It is the main standard for charging electric vehicles in the US and Canada.

Disadvantages:

• Not compatible with CCS2: An adapter is required for use with charging stations that support the CCS2 standard.
• Limited access in Europe: CCS2 is the predominant standard in Europe, which can create difficulties for users of CCS1 vehicles, especially when travelling.

Specifications and compatibility

The CCS1 (Combined Charging System 1) is one of the most widely used connectors for charging electric vehicles, supporting both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) charging. This connector has several important features that ensure its high efficiency and popularity in North America and other regions. It has become the mainstream standard for fast DC charging, which can significantly reduce vehicle charging times.

The CCS1 connector is based on the SAE J1772 (Type 1) standard for alternating current (AC) charging, supplemented by additional contacts for fast direct current (DC) charging in accordance with IEC 62196-3.

• Maximum power: For uncooled CCS1 connectors, the maximum charging power is up to 240 kW. However, some sources indicate a theoretical possibility of up to 350 kW under optimal conditions, which allows batteries to be charged at much faster stations. For example, Tesla's CCS1 adapter supports charging up to 250 kW, making this connector attractive to owners of high-performance electric vehicles.
• Voltage and current: The voltage can be up to 1000 V, enabling high levels of charging speeds at Level 3 stations. Standard connectors support 200 A current, but with the use of cooling, currents of up to 500 A can be achieved, further increasing charging speeds.
• Communication protocol: The CCS1 connector uses the HomePlug GreenPHY protocol, which is based on the ISO/IEC 15118 standard. This provides automatic billing, charging authorisation and integration with various payment systems, which is more convenient for users and simplifies the charging process.
• Contacts: The CCS1 connector has a total of 7 pins: 5 for alternating current (AC) charging and 2 for direct current (DC) charging. The pins for AC power supply include Line, Neutral, Ground, Pilot, Proximity, and two additional pins (positive and negative) are used for DC charging.
  

Compatibility and adapters

The CCS1 and CCS2 connectors are not interchangeable due to the difference in connector design. They have different types of connectors for AC charging. However, to ensure compatibility between the different standards, there are adapters that allow CCS1 vehicles to be charged at CCS2 stations and vice versa.

• CCS1 to CCS2 adapters allow drivers with CCS1 vehicles to use charging stations that support CCS2. For example, ChargingShop.eu offers an adapter to convert the connector from CCS1 to CCS2, which is useful for drivers travelling between different regions with different charging standards.
• SETEC POWER also produces adapters that enable compatibility between CCS1 and CCS2 in the North American and European markets. This allows you to travel between countries with different charging standards, although care should be taken when using these adapters as they may affect charging efficiency.

Structure and functionality of the CCS1

The CCS1 connector consists of several basic elements that enable it to perform various functions:

1. Standard socket for alternating current (AC)

The main part of the CCS1 connector is based on the SAE J1772 standard, which is used for AC charging. This type of charging is slower and is mostly used for home connections or for charging stations at low power levels. AC charging typically has a capacity of up to 22 kW and is suitable for overnight charging.

2. Two additional pins for direct current (DC)

To enable fast charging, the CCS1 connector has two additional pins for DC power transmission. This enables the use of powerful charging stations capable of charging an electric vehicle faster, increasing the charging power to 350 kW (depending on the station and vehicle). This feature enables charging speeds that far exceed the capabilities of standard AC connectors.

3. Interface for communication between the vehicle and the charging station

The CCS1 connector also features a special interface for communication between the charger and the vehicle. This allows for the exchange of data on charge level, battery status, charging power requirements, and ensures secure communication during the charging process. In particular, it supports ISO 15118-compliant communication protocols for data transfer, as well as a plug and charge function where the electric vehicle is automatically recognised by the charging station.

4. Locking mechanism

To ensure the safety of the charging process, the CCS1 has a locking mechanism that prevents the connector from being accidentally disconnected during charging. This is an important feature that reduces the risk of damage to the charging equipment and improves safety for both the driver and the vehicle.

How does CCS1 work?

The charging process with CCS1 typically involves several stages, each of which has its own importance for efficient and safe replenishment of energy in the electric vehicle battery:

Connecting to a charging station

Once the electric vehicle is parked at the charging station, the driver connects the CCS1 connector to the charging port on the vehicle. If the charging is done with AC power, the charging process is based on the SAE J1772 standard, which provides a basic level of charging for most vehicles. While AC charging is the standard in most cases, it is the direct current (DC) connection with the CCS1 that opens up the possibilities for fast charging.

Identification and authorisation

Before the charging process begins, the charging station and the vehicle establish a connection via a data interface. At this stage, the station checks the battery level, the maximum charging power that the vehicle can accept, and other important parameters. In some cases, especially at commercial charging stations, a special app or card confirming the right to use the station may be required to authorise the user. Such a system helps prevent unauthorised use and ensures correct payment for the services provided.

Charging with direct current (DC)

If the charging station supports fast charging via direct current (DC), this allows charging to begin at much higher capacities than AC charging. The DC charging process significantly speeds up the replenishment of energy in the battery and can deliver up to 80% of charge in as little as 30-40 minutes, depending on the power of the station and the capacity of the battery. DC charging is particularly useful in situations where you need to extend your journey quickly, such as on long routes or when travelling.

Charging completion process

When the battery reaches the required charge level, the charging process automatically stops. A locking mechanism prevents the cable from being accidentally disconnected until the charging process is complete. The driver can then safely disconnect the charging cable and get back on the road. Thanks to these mechanisms, charging is not only efficient, but also safe for users, as it ensures that the cable is not disconnected before the charging process is completed correctly.

CCS1 vs CCS2: The main differences between the charging ports

CCS (Combined Charging System) is an electric vehicle charging system that combines both AC and DC charging capabilities through a single connector. This solution provides convenience for electric vehicle owners by allowing charging at different power levels. The CCS standard is used in Europe, India and other international regions, and there are two main versions of this connector: CCS1 and CCS2, each with its own characteristics and applications.

Main types of CCS connectors

1. CCS1: CCS1 is a charging standard for electric vehicles that combines both AC and DC charging capabilities in a single connector. The connector has a plug for AC charging and two pins for DC charging, allowing for fast charging. CCS1 aims to promote standardisation and versatility, which helps to develop a global infrastructure of charging stations for electric vehicles.
   
2. CCS2: CCS2, or Combined Charging System 2, is a global standard for charging electric vehicles used in Europe, India and other regions. It combines AC and DC charging through a single connector, using a three-phase AC connector to allow charging at higher power levels. As with the CCS1, the CCS2 has two additional DC charging pins, which contributes to standardisation and efficient charging of electric vehicles.
   

Charging speed and efficiency of CCS1 and CCS2

In general, both CCS1 and CCS2 standards provide a similar level of efficiency, converting energy from the grid into useful energy for the vehicle with an efficiency of 90-95%. However, the maximum charging speeds of these standards are different. CCS1 has a maximum charging power of 350 kW, making it optimal for medium-fast charging. CCS2, on the other hand, supports power outputs from 50 to 350 kW, which allows you to charge your car much faster, which is especially important for fast charging stations.

Design differences between CCS1 and CCS2

The main design differences between CCS1 and CCS2 relate to the size of the connector, the cooling system, and the locking mechanism. The CCS1 connector is typically larger than the CCS2 connector, which is the result of the different technologies used in each standard. CCS1 has a slower communication protocol and does not support liquid cooling, which is important to reduce heat loss at high charging rates. CCS2, on the other hand, has a faster communication protocol and uses liquid cooling to effectively manage heat during fast charging. The CCS2's locking mechanism is also more secure, reducing the risk of accidentally disconnecting the cable during charging.

3. Compatibility with charging stations

For drivers of electric vehicles, it is important to consider the compatibility between the vehicle connector and the charging stations. Although CCS1 and CCS2 share the same design for DC pins and a common communication protocol, these connectors are not interchangeable. If your vehicle has a CCS1 connector, it will not be able to charge at a station with a CCS2 connector, and vice versa.

Many newer electric vehicle models are equipped with both CCS1 and CCS2 connectors, allowing for more flexibility in the choice of charging stations. Additionally, some charging stations are being updated to support both connectors, expanding fast charging options for electric vehicle drivers.

Maximum charging power

The CCS1 and CCS2 connectors provide a universal charging capacity ranging from 240 to 350 kW DC, making them popular with European and American car manufacturers, including Tesla. However, the actual capacity depends on the vehicle's battery capacity and the charging station's capabilities. Compared to these standards, the CHAdeMO connector supports charging up to 200 kW and is being phased out in Europe. In China, a new version of CHAdeMO is being developed that can support up to 900 kW, which may become a competition for CCS2 in the future.

In summary, CCS is a key technology for charging electric vehicles, providing both AC and DC charging capabilities. The difference between CCS1 and CCS2 is in connector design, charging speed and efficiency, highlighting the importance of interoperability for EV users. India offers its ISI7017 standard, while global standards such as CCS are shaping the charging infrastructure. Developments in technologies such as the evolution of CHAdeMO are also contributing to the competitive opportunities in the EV charging market.

Which socket is used with the CCS1

The CCS1 connector has two connectors: one for alternating current (AC) and one for direct current (DC). The CCS1 uses a standard Type 1 socket for AC, which is popular in North America, and a separate pin for connecting to DC charging stations.

• Connector type: Type 1 for alternating current (AC) and additional contacts for direct current (DC).
• AC charging: Type 1 socket allows charging at Level 2 (240V) stations for slow charging.
• DC charging: The DC contact allows the vehicle to be connected to fast charging stations (e.g. level 3), which significantly reduces charging times.

The CCS1 connector allows users to charge both slow and fast, making it a versatile choice for electric vehicles.

Regional use and popularity

CCS1 is the main standard for charging electric vehicles in the North American market. In the US, Canada, Central America, Korea and Taiwan, it is widely used for charging at public stations, especially for fast direct current (DC) charging.

At the same time, Europe and India are dominated by the CCS2 standard, which has a different type of AC charging connector (Type 2) and ensures compatibility with charging stations in these regions. This means that in Europe, CCS1 vehicles may face restrictions in accessing charging stations that only support CCS2. However, thanks to adapters, drivers can use charging stations of different standards, allowing them to travel conveniently between regions with different connector types.

Popular vehicles with CCS1 connector

• Chevrolet Bolt EV
• BMW i3
• Audi e-tron
• Volkswagen ID.4
• Ford Mustang Mach-E
• Porsche Taycan
• Hyundai Kona Electric
• Kia Soul EV

The CCS1 connector is standard on many vehicles sold in North America and is widely used for charging at public stations. This makes it an important standard for those looking for convenient and fast charging on long journeys or in public places.Overall, CCS1 is a high-speed and efficient standard for charging electric vehicles, especially in North America, with the ability to adapt to other charging standards through adapters.

Impact of the Tesla NACS charging standard on CCS adoption in North America

The North American Charging Standard (NACS), developed by Tesla, has a significant impact on the development of charging infrastructure in North America and the implementation of the CCS standard. Since Tesla announced in November 2022 that it would open up its charging technology for use by other companies, NACS has gained widespread publicity and has become a promising standard for charging electric vehicles. NACS combines AC and DC charging through a single connector, supporting up to 1 MW for DC.

Thanks to Tesla's leadership in the US electric car market and the construction of the largest DC charging network, NACS has become the most widely adopted standard for new cars. Companies such as Ford, General Motors, Rivian, Volvo, Polestar and Mercedes-Benz have announced that they will incorporate NACS into their new electric vehicle models for North America from 2025.

However, CCS will not disappear from the North American market any time soon. There are already more than a million vehicles with CCS connectors, and they will continue to be used for decades to come. In addition, in order for charging networks to qualify for a share of the $7.5 billion in federal funding, they must support the CCS standard. Therefore, existing charging networks in the US will continue to support CCS while adding NACS support.

Tesla has also promised to open 3,500 of its Supercharger stations to non-Tesla cars by the end of 2024, which will allow it to receive subsidies to expand access to its charging stations. Thus, two charging standards - NACS and CCS - will coexist in the North American market, providing greater flexibility for electric car users and promoting the development of charging infrastructure.

ECOFACTOR: Innovative Solutions for Charging Your Electric Vehicles

About the company ECOFACTOR We focus on creating innovative solutions for charging electric vehicles that combine high efficiency with environmental friendliness. Our developments are focused on reducing energy costs, accelerating the charging process and extending battery life. We offer charging stationsThe company's products meet the highest quality standards, ensuring maximum reliability and efficiency in use.

In addition to charging stations, we provide Cables and adaptersThe Tesla Model 3 is equipped with European standard charging points that ensure reliable charging in all conditions. Tesla Model 3 owners can take advantage of our smart systems to monitor and manage energy consumption, ensuring fast and stable charging.

We are constantly improving our products by integrating the latest technology to make the charging process more convenient and cost-effective. Our solutions help:

• Optimise energy costs - ECOFACTOR technology reduces energy consumption, which helps reduce charging costs.
  
• Improve charging efficiency - We use special algorithms to reduce energy losses, which allows us to use power as efficiently as possible.
  
• Manage the charging process via a mobile app - Our intelligent systems allow you to control the charging process through mobile application, available at iOS and Android. Drivers can check the charge level, choose the optimal charging time and receive detailed analytics on energy consumption.
  
• Promote sustainable development - ECOFACTOR charging stations contribute to the reduction of CO₂ emissions and support the transition to clean energy, helping to protect the environment.

Choosing solutions from ECOFACTOR - is an investment in comfort, economy and environmental responsibility. Our technologies provide maximum convenience and help reduce energy costs.

We are also actively working to expand our network of charging stations, providing drivers with access to maps of charging stationsThe system allows you to find the nearest places for safe and efficient charging of electric vehicles.

Conclusion.

The CCS1 standard remains a key element in the development of charging infrastructure, especially in North America. Its ability to support high charging speeds, safety and versatility makes it essential for electric vehicle users. While new standards such as NACS may change some aspects of the infrastructure, CCS1 continues to be an important standard in the market and has significant potential for further development.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)