Is J1772 a Fast Charge? Understanding EV Charging Standards

With the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) in recent years, one of the most important considerations for EV owners is the availability of charging stations. There are various types of charging connectors available, each with its capabilities and standards. One of the most common connectors in North America is the J1772 connector, but is it a fast charge? In this article, we will explore the J1772 connector and its charging capabilities in depth.

What is the J1772 Connector?

The J1772 connector is a standard charging connector for EVs in North America and is also known as the SAE J1772. It is a Level 2 charging connector that provides charging speeds of up to 19.2 kW and is capable of fully charging most EVs in 4-8 hours. The J1772 connector has become widely adopted by charging station manufacturers and EV manufacturers in North America, making it one of the most common charging connectors.

What is a Fast Charge?

Before we delve deeper into the capabilities of the J1772 connector, let’s first define what is considered a fast charge. Generally, fast charging refers to Level 3 charging, which provides charging speeds of 50 kW or more. Level 3 charging is also known as DC fast charging, as it uses direct current (DC) to charge the vehicle’s battery, bypassing the vehicle’s onboard charger. DC fast charging allows EVs to be charged up to 80% in as little as 30 minutes, making it a popular option for long-distance travel and quick charging needs.

Is the J1772 Connector a Fast Charge?

As previously mentioned, the J1772 connector is a Level 2 charging connector, which provides charging speeds of up to 19.2 kW. Therefore, it is not considered a fast charge. Level 2 charging is still a popular and widely used option for EV charging, as it is capable of fully charging most EVs overnight or during the workday. However, for those who require faster charging speeds, Level 3 charging is the best option.

Alternatives to J1772 for Fast Charging

For those who require fast charging capabilities, there are two main options available: CHAdeMO and CCS. CHAdeMO is a Level 3 DC fast charging connector that was developed in Japan and is widely used in Asia and Europe. It provides charging speeds of up to 62.5 kW and is compatible with many EV models, including Nissan, Mitsubishi, and Kia.

CCS, or Combined Charging System, is a Level 3 DC fast charging connector that was developed by a consortium of automakers in Europe and North America. It provides charging speeds of up to 350 kW and is becoming more widely adopted by EV manufacturers, including BMW, Ford, and Volkswagen.

While the J1772 connector is not considered a fast charge, it is still a widely used and important charging standard for Level 2 charging in North America. For those who require fast charging capabilities, CHAdeMO and CCS are the best options available. It is important for EV owners to understand the capabilities and standards of each charging connector, as this knowledge can help them make informed decisions when it comes to charging their EVs. As the EV market continues to grow and evolve, new and improved charging standards and connectors will likely emerge, further expanding the options for EV owners.