Is Type 2 charger same as J1772?

In the field of electric vehicles (EVs), different types of chargers are used to recharge the batteries. Two commonly used chargers are Type 2 charger and J1772 charger. Although these chargers have similarities, they have some distinct differences as well.

Type 2 Charger:

Type 2 charger, also known as Mennekes charger or IEC 62196 charger, is a standard charging connector primarily used in Europe for EVs. It is a three-phase charger capable of delivering higher power compared to other types of chargers. The Type 2 charger utilizes a socket-inlet design, where the socket is installed on the charging station, and the inlet is present on the EV.

J1772 Charger:

J1772 charger, also called SAE J1772™, is a charging standard commonly used in North America and Japan. This charger employs a control pilot signal for communication between the charging station and the EV. Similar to the Type 2 charger, it facilitates AC charging but operates on a single-phase system. The J1772 charger features a plug-inlet design, where the plug is attached to the charging station, and the inlet is integrated into the EV.

Differences Between Type 2 Charger and J1772 Charger

While both Type 2 and J1772 chargers serve the purpose of recharging EVs, they differ in several aspects:

1. Power Output: Type 2 chargers support three-phase charging, allowing higher power output. J1772 chargers, on the other hand, are limited to single-phase charging, resulting in a lower power delivery.

2. Geographical Usage: Type 2 charger is predominantly used in Europe, while J1772 charger is more commonly found in North America and Japan.

3. Communication Protocols: J1772 chargers employ a control pilot signal for communication, ensuring the safety and compatibility of the charging process. Type 2 chargers do not have a standardized communication protocol, although some implementations may support additional features like RFID authentication.

4. Physical Connectors: Type 2 chargers utilize a socket-inlet design, while J1772 chargers have a plug-inlet design. This difference in connector types necessitates separate charging cables or adapters between the charging station and the EV.

In conclusion, while both Type 2 charger and J1772 charger are used for recharging electric vehicles, they differ in power output, geographical usage, communication protocols, and physical connectors. Understanding these differences helps EV owners and charging station providers determine the appropriate charger for their specific needs.