What is DC CCS Charger, Fast Charger
CCS charging (Combined Charging System) is one of the main connector options for fast charging electric vehicles. Similar to CHAdeMO charging, it offers faster charging speeds compared to standard chargers. As the most widely used fast-charging connector globally, CCS is particularly popular in Europe and North America. It supports higher power outputs, providing shorter charging times, especially for larger electric vehicles and heavy-duty commercial vehicles that require ultra-fast charging.
CCS chargers are an upgraded version of the Type 2 plug, combining the advantages of DC (direct current) charging to deliver a more efficient charging experience for electric vehicles. As the electric vehicle market continues to grow, DC CCS chargers and Fast Chargers are becoming essential charging solutions, offering more convenience and faster charging options for EV users worldwide.
Why is it Called CCS?
CCS stands for Combined Charging System, reflecting its design as a versatile and adaptable charging standard for electric vehicles (EVs). The “combined” aspect refers to the integration of both AC (Alternating Current) and DC (Direct Current) charging options within a single connector system. This flexibility allows EVs equipped with CCS ports to be charged at a variety of charging stations, from slower home or public AC chargers to high-power DC fast chargers.
When you see a CCS connector, it will look just like a Type 2 set-up with an additional two connector holes. When using a standard Type 2 charger, the bottom two holes on the connector will be free. These are only used by the CCS plug.
What’s the difference between CCS and CHAdeMO connectors?
CCS (Combined Charging System) and CHAdeMO are both DC charging connectors that supply power directly to an electric vehicle’s battery, bypassing the need for conversion by the onboard charger. Unlike AC chargers that feed AC power to the vehicle before converting it to DC, these connectors enable faster and more efficient charging.
The main difference is that CCS supports both AC and DC charging through a single port, making it more versatile and widely adopted in Europe and North America. CHAdeMO, on the other hand, is designed primarily for DC charging and requires an extra connector for AC compatibility, limiting its adaptability without additional adapters.
| Feature | CCS (Combined Charging System) | CHAdeMO |
| Charging Type | DC (Direct Current) and AC (Alternating Current) | DC (Direct Current) only |
| Port Compatibility | Single port for both AC and DC charging | Requires separate port for AC charging |
| Global Adoption | Widely adopted in Europe, North America, and other regions | Primarily used in Japan and limited regions |
| Connector Type | Combined Type 1 or Type 2 AC and DC | Dedicated DC connector |
| Adapter Required for AC | No | Yes, an additional adapter is needed |
| Vehicle Compatibility | Compatible with Type 1 and Type 2 vehicles | Limited to vehicles with CHAdeMO port |
How do you use a CCS connector?
Using a CCS connector is simple and similar to using other EV chargers.
Park Near the Charging Point
Position your vehicle close to the charging station, ensuring the CCS connector can reach your car’s charging port.
Plug In
Take the CCS charging plug and insert it into your vehicle’s charging port. The connector will typically lock into place during charging, ensuring a secure connection.
Start Charging
Once connected, the charging station will begin the charging process. Some stations may require you to authenticate or start the session using a mobile app or card.
Check the Charging Progress
Most charging units will provide clear instructions and visual indicators on the station to show the charging status. You can also use apps to locate nearby CCS chargers and monitor your charge remotely.
Complete the Charge
Once charging is complete, the connector will unlock automatically, allowing you to safely remove the plug and drive off.
How fast are CCS connectors?
CCS connectors have varying power ratings, usually between 50-350 kW. Even the lowest output but most commonly used 50 kW connector can charge approximately 75 miles in 30 minutes (based on a 60 kWh battery).
The 350 kW connector is not as common today, but this connector can charge 525 miles in 30 minutes, while the more common 150 kW setup can charge 225 miles in the same amount of time.
In comparison, the Type 2 AC connector delivers 7 kW from a single-phase setup, which can charge a 60 kW battery about 25 miles in an hour.
The CCS charges faster and can fully charge a battery in less time than a standard charger.
Is CCS charging bad for your EV?
CCS charging is not inherently bad for your electric vehicle (EV). In fact, it’s a highly efficient way to quickly charge your battery, especially when you’re on the go. However, excessive use of rapid charging can impact battery health over time. Fast charging generates more heat, which can cause the battery to degrade faster if done too frequently.
It’s a good idea to reserve CCS rapid charging for long trips or when you need a quick boost, while relying on slower, standard charging for your regular, daily needs. Using a standard charger overnight allows your battery to charge at a gentler pace, helping to preserve its longevity.