Electric cars are becoming increasingly popular due to their environmental friendliness and efficiency. However, one thing that often confuses new users is the type of charging socket. Not all electric vehicles use the same socket, and recognizing the right type of socket is crucial to ensure fast and efficient charging. This article will discuss the five most commonly used types of charging sockets, complete with detailed information so you can be better prepared to use an electric car.

1. Tipe 1 (SAE J1772)

Type 1 or SAE J1772 is a type of AC charging socket that is widely used in North America and Japan. It supports up to 7.4 kW of power on a 240V home power grid. This socket is typically used for home charging, as it is suitable for vehicles that do not require fast charging. If your car uses a Type 1 socket, it is important to make sure the charging station provides a suitable adapter, especially in Indonesia where these sockets are not very common. Some examples of cars that use Type 1 (SAE J1772) chargers include the Nissan Leaf (first generation), Chevrolet Volt, and Mitsubishi i-MiEV.


Type 1 SAE J1772



Nissan leaf

2. Tipe 2 (Mennekes)

Type 2 is a charging socket standard that is widely used in Europe and is the most common in Indonesia. It supports AC charging up to 22 kW, and in some specific configurations, can handle up to 43 kW. One of the advantages of this socket is its compatibility with many public charging stations (SPKLU) in Indonesia. In addition, this socket is often found on electric cars of European brands such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi.

    Tipe 2 (Mennekes)



Audi Q5 

3. CHAdeMO

CHAdeMO is a DC fast charging socket developed in Japan. It is designed for charging up to 100 kW, allowing a vehicle's battery to be charged to 80% in just 20-30 minutes. CHAdeMO is often used in electric cars such as the Nissan Leaf and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. In Indonesia, this socket is starting to be available in some SPKLUs, especially in big cities. Its main advantage is its high charging speed, suitable for users who need to charge in a short time.

Ever wondered why one brand of electric car can have different types of chargers? For example, some cars use CHAdeMO, but other models use CCS. The answer is simple: it's a matter of market needs and charging infrastructure in each country, including Indonesia.

CHAdeMO was originally popular in Japan and is often used in cars like the Nissan Leaf. In Indonesia, this type of charger is already available in several SPKLUs in big cities, as many Japanese electric cars have entered our market first. But now, CCS is becoming more popular, especially with the Hyundai Ioniq 5. This electric car uses CCS because the infrastructure is growing, including PLN's SPKLU which has started to provide charging for this type.

This shows how car manufacturers are adjusting to the market needs in each country. They want to make sure users can find a charger easily, whether it is CHAdeMO or CCS. With the growth of electric cars in Indonesia, we will see more charger options in the future. How exciting is that?

CHAdeMO



Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

4. CCS (Combined Charging System)

CCS is a multifunctional socket that has become the global standard for electric car charging. It supports both AC and DC charging with a capacity of up to 350 kW in DC mode. This speed makes CCS an ideal choice for users who frequently take long trips. Many major electric car brands such as Tesla (in Europe), Volkswagen, and Hyundai already use this socket. CCS-compatible charging infrastructure is also growing in Indonesia, making it one of the most promising socket types.

CCS (Combined Charging System)

Hyundai Ioniq 5

5. GB/T

GB/T is a charging socket standard that originated in China. It supports AC charging up to 22 kW and DC charging up to 237.5 kW. The GB/T socket is often found on Chinese-made electric vehicles such as BYD and Wuling. In Indonesia, this socket is still relatively new, but with more Chinese electric cars on the market, its use is expected to increase.


GB/T


Wuling Air .

Choosing the right charging socket depends on the type of electric car you have. Make sure you understand the specifications of the vehicle's built-in socket and find out its compatibility with available charging stations. An adapter may be needed if your vehicle's socket is different from the common sockets in Indonesia. An adapter is a device that allows electric cars with a certain type of socket to still charge at charging stations that use a different socket standard. For example, if your electric car uses CHAdeMO, while the charging station only provides CCS, this adapter serves as a connector so that charging can still be done. 

Adaptor CHAdeMO to CCS

Indonesia continues to improve electric vehicle charging infrastructure through the construction of SPKLUs in various strategic locations such as malls, rest areas, and office buildings.Some SPKLUs even provide multifunctional sockets that support various socket types such as Type 2, CCS, and CHAdeMO.This provides more flexibility for electric vehicle users.

For more efficient charging, make sure the battery is not allowed to fully discharge before charging. Charging when the battery is at 20-30% is a good practice to maintain battery life. Also, use an app to search for the nearest SPKLU that is compatible with your vehicle. This will save you time and ensure your journey remains smooth.

Charging an electric car becomes easier if you understand the type of socket being used. With the growing infrastructure in Indonesia, the transition to electric vehicles is becoming more convenient and practical. So, is your electric car ready for a seamless journey?