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Plug types
The most common EV plugs in Europe
You can charge your EV at home, at the office or on the go, but not all charging stations use the same plug. Depending on the type of charger, you’ll need a compatible connector. So here’s a simple breakdown of the most common EV plug types in Europe. Where will you see them, and what are they used for?
Type 2 (Mennekes)
What is it: the European standard for AC charging
Charging capacity: supports single- and three-phase charging (up to 22 kW, occasionally 43 kW)
Best for: home, workplace, and public charging
Usage: widely used and considered futureproof
CCS (Combined Charging System)
What is it: a Type 2 plug with two extra pins for DC fast charging
Charging capacity: fast and ultra-fast charging
Best for: fast charging EVs across Europe (it’s now the standard)
Usage: supported by most new EV models
ChaDeMo
What is it: a Japanese DC fast charger standard
Charging capacity: up to 62.5 kW (sometimes more with specific chargers)
Best for: mainly older Nissan Leaf models
Usage: gradually being phased out in Europe
Type 1 (SAE J1772)
What is it: a single-phase plug used in some older or non-European vehicles
Charging capacity: up to 7.4 kW
Best for: not suitable for public charging without an adapter
Usage: rarely seen on the European market today
Schuko (230V household plug)
What is it: a regular domestic 230V socket
Charging capacity: slow charging only (up to 2.3 kW)
Best for: emergencies or occasional charging
Usage: limited (no communication between car and socket)
Type 3
What is it: a plug once popular in France and Italy
Charging capacity: supports charging up to 22 kW
Best for: secure public charging (includes a lockable flap)
Usage: largely replaced by the more versatile Type 2
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