Electric Vehicle Cable Types and Charging Standards

There are various types of charging cables and standards in the world of electric vehicles. In this article, we will examine all cable types and their usage areas in detail.

AC Charging Cables

Type 2 (Mennekes)

The standard AC charging connector in Europe.

Features:

• 7-pin design
• Single and three-phase charging support
• 3.7 kW - 22 kW power range
• Locking mechanism
• IP54 water and dust protection

Usage Areas:

• Home charging units
• Public AC charging stations
• Most European electric vehicles

Type 1 (SAE J1772)

Commonly used in American and Japanese vehicles.

Features:

• 5-pin design
• Single-phase charging
• Maximum 7.4 kW power
• Mechanical locking
• IP44 protection

DC Charging Cables

CCS (Combined Charging System)

Formed by adding DC pins to a Type 2 or Type 1 connector.

Features:

• AC and DC charging support
• 50 kW - 350 kW power range
• Automatic locking
• Communication protocol
• Optional cooled cable

CHAdeMO

Japanese-origin DC charging standard.

Features:

• DC charging only
• 50 kW - 100 kW power range
• Bidirectional charging support (V2G)
• 10-pin design
• Advanced communication

Cable Types and Power Levels

Cable Selection and Points to Consider

When Choosing a Cable

1. Vehicle Compatibility
   • Check the connector type supported by your vehicle
   • Consider the maximum charging power
2. Cable Quality
   • Quality material and insulation
   • Suitable cross-sectional area
   • Certifications (CE, TÜV, etc.)
3. Length
   • 5-7 meters for home charging
   • 3-5 meters for portable use
   • Avoid very long cables

Safety Precautions

1. Before Use
   • Check for physical damage
   • Clean the pins
   • Check the locking mechanism
2. During Use
   • Place the cable properly
   • Avoid excessive bending
   • Be careful with rain/water contact
3. Storage
   • Clean and dry environment
   • Proper winding
   • Protect from UV rays

Common Problems and Solutions

1. Communication Error
   • Clean the pins
   • Software update
   • Service check
2. Locking Problem
   • Mechanical check
   • Cleaning
   • Service support
3. Low Charging Power
   • Check cable cross-section
   • Check station power
   • Check vehicle settings

Conclusion

Choosing and maintaining the right cable plays an important role in electric vehicle use. By selecting a cable suitable for your vehicle and performing regular maintenance, you can enjoy a safe and efficient charging experience.