Is Type 2 the same as J1772?

Electric vehicles (EVs) have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their environmental benefits and the need for sustainable transportation solutions. As more people consider purchasing an EV, it is important to understand the different charging standards and connectors available. In this article, we will delve into the comparison between Type 2 and J1772 connectors, exploring their similarities and differences.

Type 2 Connector

The Type 2 connector, also known as the IEC 62196-2 connector, is widely used in Europe for both AC and DC charging of electric vehicles. It features a seven-pin design that allows for a higher charging capacity compared to the older Type 1 connector. The Type 2 connector supports both single-phase and three-phase charging, making it suitable for a variety of charging stations.

J1772 Connector

The J1772 connector, developed by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), is predominantly used in North America for AC charging of electric vehicles. It consists of five pins and is compatible with both single-phase and three-phase charging. The J1772 connector has been adopted as the standard by most major automakers in the United States.

Comparison

While Type 2 and J1772 connectors serve the same purpose of charging electric vehicles, there are some notable differences between them. First and foremost, the physical design of the connectors is distinct. The Type 2 connector has seven pins, whereas the J1772 connector has only five. Additionally, the J1772 connector incorporates a unique feature called the "J-plug," which provides an additional safety mechanism by disabling the power flow until the connector is fully plugged in.

In terms of charging capacity, the Type 2 connector supports higher power levels compared to the J1772 connector. This is due to the three-phase charging capability of Type 2 connectors, which allows for faster charging times. On the other hand, the J1772 connector is limited to single-phase charging, resulting in slower charging speeds.

Another significant difference lies in the geographical usage. As mentioned earlier, the Type 2 connector is prevalent in Europe, while the J1772 connector is primarily used in North America. Therefore, it is crucial for electric vehicle owners to consider the connector compatibility when traveling to different regions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, although both Type 2 and J1772 connectors are utilized for charging electric vehicles, they differ in terms of design, charging capacity, and geographic implementation. Understanding these variances is essential for EV owners to ensure compatibility and efficiency when charging their vehicles. Whether you have a Type 2 or J1772 connector, the availability of charging infrastructure continues to expand, making electric vehicle ownership a more convenient and viable option with each passing day.