Choosing the right fast charging connector can be confusing for many new EV owners. When people talk about CCS1 and CCS2, the names sound technical, but the idea behind them is simple: both are designed to charge electric vehicles quickly and safely. The difference mainly comes from where you live, what car you drive, and what kind of charging network is available around you. For drivers, understanding these standards matters because it affects how easily you can charge your car on a road trip or at a public ev charging station.

For businesses planning to build charging sites, the decision is even more important. Picking the wrong connector can lead to low usage and higher costs. Many companies prefer flexible equipment that supports several standards so they can serve more vehicles in one location. A global ev charging solutions manufacturer needs to design hardware that works in different regions, from North America to Europe and Asia. In this guide, we will explain CCS1 and CCS2 in a simple way, compare their differences, and help you decide which standard fits your needs best.

What Is CCS and Why Does It Matter?

CCS stands for the Combined Charging System, and it matters because it defines how electric vehicles plug into fast-charging points. In simple terms, CCS combines both AC and DC charging in one connector and has become a key standard for public charging.

On a deeper level, CCS impacts three major areas. First, user experience: if your car supports the connector and the local network uses it, charging at a public station is seamless. Second, vehicle compatibility: manufacturers worldwide are aligning their models with CCS, so choosing the wrong connector means fewer charging options. Third, commercial deployment: charging-station operators and an EV charging station provider must plan infrastructure that supports the right standard or risk under-utilization and higher costs.

From a market perspective, the CCS segment alone generated USD 4,515.1 million in 2024 and is projected to grow to USD 21,345.5 million by 2030, reflecting a CAGR of about 30.3%.

Also, global fast-charger networks are expanding rapidly: for example, the global EV charging station market was valued at USD 39.7 billion in 2024 and is expected to keep growing strongly. gminsights.com

Because of these trends, CCS isn’t just a technical detail—it’s a critical choice for drivers, automakers, and infrastructure players alike.

What Is CCS1?

CCS1 (also known as Combo 1) is a fast-charging connector standard mainly used in North America and South Korea, combining both AC and DC charging in one plug.

Diving further, CCS1 is built on the legacy SAE J1772 (Type 1) AC connector and adds two extra DC pins for fast charging. According to one review, CCS1 supports DC charging up to approximately 350 kW, similar to other standards. In terms of regional use, CCS1 is dominant in the United States and South Korea, where it remains the “mainstream standard for non-Tesla EVs”. For example, South Korea officially moved to adopt CCS as its fast-charging protocol some years ago.

In terms of vehicles, many North American EVs coming from major automakers support the CCS1 inlet, making it the expected connector at many public fast-charging stations. From an infrastructure standpoint, the US government’s funding for EV charging networks requires multiple connector types, and CCS1 remains eligible under programs supporting public stations. Because of this wide network and compatibility, if you drive in North America and your car uses CCS1, you’ll likely find plenty of fast-charging options available.

What Is CCS2?

CCS2 stands for the second version of the Combined Charging System connector, and it is the main fast-charging standard used across Europe, the Asia-Pacific region, the Middle East and Australia.

In more detail, CCS2 is built on the IEC Type 2 (or Mennekes) connector for AC charging and adds two large DC pins beneath it to handle high-power fast charging. The standard supports the same AC + DC flexibility as its counterpart, making it ideal for a wide variety of markets. Thanks to its compatibility and strong regulatory backing, CCS2 has become the dominant connector in many regions: for example, the DC fast-charging stations market report notes that CCS2 “emerged as the predominant standard in Europe and being mandated by the EU for EV charging networks.”

Also, the broader market data shows that the combined charging system connector type captured about 40.07 % of the electric vehicle charging infrastructure market in 2024.

Because more car manufacturers and public-charging networks in multiple countries adopt CCS2, it offers better multi-national reach and interoperability. Governments across Europe are pushing deployment through policies like minimum fast-charger densities, which helps accelerate the rollout of CCS2 infrastructure.

Thus, if you operate across different countries or drive a globally sold EV model, CCS2 often offers the best compatibility and future-proofing.

CCS1 vs CCS2: Key Differences

When comparing the two standards—CCS1 and CCS2—it helps to focus on four major areas: connector design, charging power, vehicle compatibility, and infrastructure adoption. These differences shape how easily you can charge your EV and how well the charging network serves you.

Connector Design & Interface Layout

CCS1 extends the SAE J1772 (Type 1) AC connector by adding two DC pins beneath it, while CCS2 extends the IEC 62196 Type 2 connector with the same additional two DC pins.

The physical size is also different: CCS1 is generally bulkier, whereas CCS2 is more streamlined and supports three‑phase AC in certain markets.

Because CCS2 supports more pins and higher current/voltage configurations, it becomes more compatible with a wider regional standard and future upgrades.

Charging Power & Speed

Both standards support DC fast charging up to ~350 kW or more in many cases.

However, in practical terms CCS2 has an edge: some sources show it supports up to 350 amps or more current compared to approx. 200 amps for CCS1, giving it greater headroom for high‑power fast charging.

On the AC side, CCS2 supports both single‑ and three‑phase charging (up to ~43 kW) whereas CCS1 often covers only single‑phase AC at lower power.

Vehicle Compatibility

In North America and South Korea, most non‑Tesla EVs use CCS1, while in Europe, Asia‑Pacific and Australia the dominant standard is CCS2.

Models sold in the U.S. such as the Chevrolet Bolt and Ford Mustang Mach‑E are examples for CCS1 regions; while in Europe, vehicles like the Audi e‑tron and Renault Zoe tend to adopt CCS2.

Because of this geographic split, your choice of EV connector matters a lot if you plan to travel or move between regions.

Infrastructure Adoption

The infrastructure for each standard mirrors their regional dominance. In North America, CCS1 stations are widespread, but global growth trends show CCS2 deployed more broadly in Europe and many parts of Asia.

Regulatory and policy support in Europe even mandates CCS2 compliance in EV charging networks under EU legislation.

Over time, this means CCS2 may offer better future‑proofing and network density in many international markets, while CCS1 remains strong in its region.

Comparison Table — CCS1 vs CCS2

Here’s a clear overview of how CCS1 and CCS2 differ across key dimensions, helping you quickly see which standard fits your region, vehicle, and charging needs.

This table shows that although both standards support fast DC charging, CCS2 is more versatile for international use, while CCS1 is concentrated in North America. Choosing the right standard ensures better compatibility, faster charging, and easier access to public charging stations.

Which One Should You Choose?

Deciding between CCS1 and CCS2 depends largely on who you are and where you plan to use your electric vehicle or charging equipment. Each group—EV owners, charging station operators, and manufacturers—faces different considerations when selecting the right standard.

For EV Owners

If you are a driver, your choice is mainly dictated by your vehicle’s charging inlet. North American and South Korean EVs typically use CCS1, while European, Asia-Pacific, and Middle Eastern vehicles usually rely on CCS2. If you travel internationally, adapters may be necessary, and knowing which network dominates each region ensures you can access fast charging conveniently. Using the correct connector avoids compatibility issues and ensures your car charges at its maximum speed.

For Charging Station Investors & Operators

For businesses building EV charging stations, regional regulations, vehicle traffic patterns, and customer preferences should guide your selection. Offering only one standard may limit usage and reduce revenue. Many operators now deploy multi-standard chargers that support CCS1, CCS2, CHAdeMO, and GB/T, improving station utilization and profitability. According to recent industry reports, stations supporting multiple standards can see up to 30% higher usage rates compared to single-standard locations, helping recoup infrastructure costs faster.

For Manufacturers / Export Projects

For manufacturers producing EV chargers for global markets, supporting both CCS1 and CCS2 is essential. This dual compatibility reduces inventory complexity and allows a single product line to serve multiple regions, lowering certification and shipping costs. With the global EV charging market expected to surpass $39 billion in 2024 and grow rapidly, designing multi-standard equipment ensures better scalability and a wider customer base.

By understanding your role and target region, you can choose the standard that maximizes compatibility, convenience, and commercial value. Whether you’re a driver, operator, or manufacturer, the right decision now can save time, money, and frustration in the growing EV ecosystem.

Olink Offers Multi‑Standard DC Fast Charging Solutions

Olink delivers versatile fast charging equipment that supports multiple connector standards and is built for diverse commercial applications.

Olink’s chargers handle CCS1, CCS2, CHAdeMO and GB/T all in one system, with power options from 60 kW up to 360 kW, enabling flexible deployment across markets. These units support the OCPP protocol, remote monitoring, smart load management and integrated payment interfaces, which ensures efficient operation and lower maintenance overhead. For public charging stations, commercial sites, EV fleets or converting fuel stations to EV hubs, Olink provides a future‑proof platform. With the global fast charger market projected to grow to over USD 21 billion by 2030, multi‑standard solutions like these are essential for scalability and market coverage. “Need advice for CCS standards in your market? Contact Olink for a tailored charging solution.”

Future Trends of CCS1 and CCS2

Looking ahead, CCS1 and CCS2 are evolving in ways that impact drivers, operators, and manufacturers. These trends show which standards are likely to dominate in the coming years.

CCS2 as the Global Standard

CCS2 is becoming the most globally compatible standard, especially in Europe, Asia‑Pacific, the Middle East, and Australia. It now accounts for a major share of fast-charging installations, supported by regulatory policies and widespread EV adoption. The combined system segment captured about 40 % of the global EV charging infrastructure market in 2024.

North America Moves Toward Multi‑Standard Chargers

In North America, the market is gradually shifting to multi-standard chargers that support CCS1, CCS2, and other protocols. This approach allows stations to serve mixed fleets, improving utilization and future-proofing infrastructure. Fast-charging ports are expected to surpass 100,000 by 2027, reflecting growing demand.

Next‑Generation Charging Technology

Future trends include ultra-fast charging (350 kW+), liquid-cooled cables, and high-power interfaces for heavy-duty vehicles. The liquid-cooled rapid charger market is projected to grow from USD 1.72 billion in 2024 to USD 12.5 billion by 2035. CCS2’s design makes it well-suited for these higher-voltage, higher-current applications.

FAQs

Q: What is the main difference between CCS1 and CCS2?

A: CCS1 is mainly used in North America and South Korea, while CCS2 is the dominant standard in Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Australia. The difference lies in connector design, AC/DC support, and regional compatibility.

Q: Can I use a CCS1 vehicle at a CCS2 charger?A: Not directly. CCS1 and CCS2 have different plug designs. If you plan to drive internationally, you may need an adapter to connect a CCS1 vehicle to a CCS2 charger.

Q: What types of vehicles support CCS1 and CCS2?A: CCS1 is common on North American EVs like the Chevrolet Bolt and Ford Mustang Mach-E, while CCS2 is used on European and Asia-Pacific models such as the Audi e-tron and Renault Zoe.

Q: Why do some charging stations support multiple standards?A: Multi-standard chargers serve more vehicles at one location, increasing utilization and profitability. They often support CCS1, CCS2, CHAdeMO, and GB/T to accommodate different EVs.

Q: What power levels do Olink DC fast chargers support?A: Olink chargers range from 60 kW to 360 kW, supporting AC + DC fast charging, smart load management, remote monitoring, and integrated payment interfaces.

Conclusion

In summary, CCS1 and CCS2 each have clear strengths and regional advantages. CCS1 dominates in North America and South Korea, while CCS2 leads in Europe, AsiaPacific, and other global markets due to its wider compatibility and support for higher-power, three-phase AC charging. Choosing the right standard is essential for seamless vehicle charging, efficient infrastructure deployment, and long-term scalability. For EV owners, operators, and manufacturers, understanding these differences ensures maximum convenience, compatibility, and return on investment. To explore multi-standard DC fast charging solutions tailored to your needs, consider contacting Olink for expert guidance.

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