EV CHARGING OPTIONS OVERVIEW
EV Charging Types: Power, Cost, and Connectors
*The information provided regarding electric vehicle (EV) charging costs is based on average electricity rates and industry data from early 2024. Actual costs can vary significantly depending on regional electricity prices, charging network fees, and the specific vehicle being charged. The figures listed are intended for general guidance and may fluctuate due to changes in energy markets, updated utility rates, or the availability of new technologies and charging infrastructure.
Understanding DC: How Does It Work in Charging?
DC stands for Direct Current, a type of electrical current where the electric charge (current) flows in one direction, as opposed to Alternating Current (AC), where the flow of electric charge periodically reverses direction.
Direct Current (DC) is the type of electricity stored in batteries and used by most electronic devices like smartphones and laptops.
In the context of electric vehicle (EV) charging, DC is used in fast charging (e.g., DCFC), where the charging station supplies direct current directly to the vehicle's battery, bypassing the onboard charger that usually converts AC into DC.
In contrast, most of the electrical grid operates on AC, which is more efficient for long-distance transmission. However, batteries, including those in EVs, store energy as DC, which is why DC fast charging is much faster than charging with AC, as it doesn’t require conversion inside the vehicle.
Electric Vehicle Charging Connector Types
How EV Connector Adapters Work
EV connector adapters allow vehicles with one type of charging port to connect to charging stations that use a different connector type. They enable broader compatibility across charging networks by adapting the physical connectors and handling communication between the vehicle and the charger.
Common EV Connector Adapters:
CCS Combo to CHAdeMO Adapter: Allows vehicles with CCS Combo ports to charge at CHAdeMO fast chargers. This adapter is useful for compatibility with the CHAdeMO network, which is popular in regions like Japan.
CHAdeMO to CCS Combo Adapter: Enables vehicles with CHAdeMO ports (like older Nissan Leafs) to charge at CCS Combo charging stations. This adapter is useful for expanding charging options beyond CHAdeMO chargers.
NACS to CHAdeMO Adapter: Allows Tesla vehicles to use CHAdeMO fast chargers. This adapter is beneficial for Teslas in regions where CHAdeMO chargers are more common.
NACS to J1772 Adapter: Enables Tesla vehicles to charge at J1772 AC Level 2 chargers, which are widely available at public charging stations and home charging setups.
J1772 to NACS Adapter: Allows non-Tesla EVs with a J1772 connector to charge at Tesla Wall Connectors and certain Superchargers that support AC charging.
CCS Combo to NACS Adapter: Allows non-Tesla EVs with CCS Combo connectors to use Tesla Superchargers equipped with NACS ports (in regions where this functionality is supported).
These adapters provide cross-compatibility between various charging networks and standards, making it easier for EV owners to find compatible charging stations regardless of their vehicle's native connector.
*Images are provided for illustrative purposes only. The information provided regarding EV connector adapters is based on current available data and commonly used adapters in 2023-2024. However, the availability and compatibility of adapters can vary by region, vehicle model, and charging network. Manufacturers may introduce new adapters or discontinue existing ones as EV technology evolves. The information provided regarding the ability for non-Tesla vehicles to charge at Tesla Supercharger stations is based on current data as of 2023-2024. The availability of this service may vary by location and is subject to changes as Tesla continues to expand its network. Access to Tesla Superchargers for non-Tesla EVs requires the use of specific adapters or built-in CCS compatibility, and the use of the Tesla app for charging and payments. Please verify with local Supercharger stations and the Tesla app for the latest access details and supported vehicles.
Source: https://afdc.energy.gov, https://www.electrifyamerica.com, https://www.kbb.com, https://www.energysage.com, https://www.tesla.com/charging