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FAQ
Are J1772 plugs compatible with Level 3 DC fast charging stations?
In brief: No, J1772 plugs are not compatible with Level 3 DC fast charging stations as they are designed for Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging.
The SAE J1772 plug, widely recognized as a standard charging interface for electric vehicles (EVs) in regions such as North America, is primarily designed for Level 1 (120V AC) and Level 2 (240V AC) charging(1). These levels of charging use alternating current (AC), which is converted to direct current (DC) by the vehicle’s onboard charger, making it suitable for the battery.
In contrast, Level 3 charging, also known as DC fast charging, provides DC power directly to the vehicle’s battery, bypassing the onboard charger. DC fast charging requires a different plug type due to the higher power levels and the nature of the direct current supply. In North America, the common standards for DC fast charging include the CHAdeMO and the SAE Combo (also known as CCS – Combined Charging System), which are not compatible with the J1772 plug(2).
So, while the J1772 plug is versatile and commonly used for home and public charging stations offering Level 1 and Level 2 charging, it cannot be used at a Level 3 DC fast charging station due to the different power requirements, charging mechanisms, and physical connector design.
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