Type 2 vs CCS2

IntroductionType 2 is the 7-pin AC charging interface used across Europe and many nearby regions for homes, workplaces, and destinations. It supports single-phase and three-phase supply. In practice you will meet 7.4 kW on single-phase and 11 or 22 kW on three-phase, depending on the site and the vehicle’s onboard charger. DC fast charging uses CCS2, not Type 2.     What the plug is and how it worksType 2 has seven contacts. L1, L2, L3, N, and PE carry power and protective earth. CP (control pilot) exchanges basic signals to start, stop, and limit current. PP (proximity pilot) identifies the cable and its rated current so the system does not exceed it. A mechanical lock at the vehicle inlet or charge post holds the connector during the session.       Power levels in daily useThe numbers below reflect common configurations you will find at home and in public AC bays. Power Supply & current Typical where you’ll see it 7.4 kW 1-phase, 32 A Most homes 11 kW 3-phase, 16 A Homes with three-phase; many residential posts 22 kW 3-phase, 32 A Some public AC bays; certain private installs   Note on history: some earlier systems reached 43 kW AC on specific models. That arrangement is rare today and not a planning target.     Type 2 and CCS2 explainedType 2 is used for AC charging. CCS2 is used for DC charging. CCS2 keeps the Type 2 shape and adds two large DC pins under the AC section. Use Type 2 for overnight, destination, and workplace charging on AC. Use CCS2 when you need high-power DC on corridors and quick turnarounds.     Tethered and untethered posts; Mode 2 and Mode 3Tethered posts carry a fixed cable. They are quick to use and remove the need to bring a cable. Untethered posts expect you to use your own Type 2 cable. They reduce wear and theft risk and keep bays tidy when cables are stored properly. Mode 2 refers to a portable in-cable control box used with suitable outlets. Mode 3 refers to dedicated AC equipment or posts that manage the session. Type 2 appears in both contexts.     Compatibility notesMost current European models use Type 2 for AC and CCS2 for DC. Tesla vehicles in Europe follow the same approach today. Other regions use different connector families; check the vehicle inlet and the site standard when traveling.     Selecting the right connector and cable assemblyChoosing by the largest printed number often leads to disappointment. Follow a short sequence that matches your site and vehicle.   Step 1: confirm the supplyCheck whether your site is single-phase or three-phase. Confirm continuous current capacity at 16 A or 32 A on the intended circuit. An electrician can verify this and advise on protection and wiring routes.   Step 2: check the vehicle’s onboard charger (OBC)Your AC rate is capped by the OBC. If the OBC supports only single-phase 7.4 kW, a three-phase post will not speed up AC sessions. If the OBC supports three-phase 11 or 22 kW, align the site supply to unlock that performance.   Step 3: size the cable and enclosure to the place you parkPick a length that reaches the inlet without tight bends. Avoid long coils that trap heat. For outdoor use, prefer robust housings, sealed boots, and strain relief that tolerates repeated flexing. Where vandalism or theft is a concern, plan holsters and locks.     Product noteOnce supply and OBC limits are clear, standardize on a Type 2 EV connector with accurate CP/PP behavior, a positive latch, and contact plating suited to continuous 32 A where required. Workersbee offers Type 2 EV connector options designed for 7.4, 11, and 22 kW AC use so each insert feels consistent and lasts under daily handling.     Simple selection flow Supply → OBC → AccessorySingle-phase 32 A or three-phase 16/32 A → Vehicle OBC limit 7.4/11/22 kW → Type 2 EV connector and cable assembly rated to the lower of the two     Site considerations for public AC baysMake insertion and start-up feel predictable. Keep holsters clean so the connector seats with a clear click. Inspect latches, seals, and contact faces on a routine interval and retire tired leads early. Label each bay with its AC power so drivers set realistic expectations. Plan cable management so the lead reaches both front and rear inlets without dragging on the ground.     Product note for operatorsStandardized hardware improves training and cuts reseat errors. A durable Type 2 EV connector paired with well-built Type 2 cable assemblies helps protect contacts, holds up under frequent use, and keeps sessions stable across locations. Workersbee supports specification and deployment so teams align EV connectors, leads, and holsters before scale-up.     Safety and careInsert and remove the connector straight. Do not twist under load. Avoid crushing or sharp edges along the cable path. Do not leave long loops tightly coiled during high-current sessions. Keep protective caps on stored connectors and wipe grit from contact areas before use.     Frequently asked questions Can Type 2 reach 22 kW on ACYes. It requires three-phase 32 A at the site and a vehicle whose OBC supports that rate.   Is Type 2 the same as J1772 (Type 1)No. The signaling ideas are related, but the shapes and regional ecosystems differ. Adapters and the vehicle inlet determine compatibility.   Does Type 2 support DC fast chargingNo. Type 2 is for AC. DC fast charging uses CCS2, which adds two DC pins to the Type 2 geometry.   What cable length should I choosePick the shortest length that reaches the inlet without tight bends from the planned parking position. Shorter runs are neater and reduce the risk of damage or heat buildup in coils.     SummaryType 2 is the widely used 7-pin AC interface for Europe and nearby regions. Expect 7.4 kW on single-phase and 11 or 22 kW on three-phase when the site and vehicle support it. Keep the distinction clear: Type 2 for AC, CCS2 for DC. For consistent operation, specify a reliable Type 2 EV connector and matching cable assembly, then align supply, OBC limits, and site layout before you scale.