What is CCS charging?

Electric cars have become increasingly popular over the past few years. Their innovative features, along with their eco-friendly and cost-effective functions have made them a top choice for motorists worldwide. 

With the popularity of electric vehicles constantly rising, the range of EV charging systems and cables is also evolving. Amongst the most innovative and increasingly common methods of charging electric vehicles is CCS charging.

But what is CCS charging and how does it differ from the other types of EV charging methods? Find out everything you need to know in this informative guide.

What is CCS charging?

Combined Charging System (CCS) is a type of EV charging connector used for fast and rapid charging. They are regarded as an enhanced version of the Type 2 charger, providing two additional power contact points to facilitate rapid EV charging. CCS charging systems are direct current (DC) charging connectors. They combine the inlets for both alternating current (AC) and DC through the use of shared communications pins – these are known as CCS Combo 1 and CCS Combo 2 connectors. 

CCS charging units are regarded as an open international standard, which means that they can be used in places across the world. CCS chargers are particularly popular in North America and Europe.

CCS charging connectors are typically tethered, so you don’t have to worry about having a connector cable to hand in order to charge your EV. 

How fast is a CCS Charging System?

CCS charging systems can charge electric vehicles at speeds of up to 350kW – offering efficient rapid charging. Due to their rapid charging speeds, these units can often be found at motorway services. CCS chargers can provide a mile range of up to 525 miles with each half hour of charge. 

How are CCS chargers used?

To use a CCS charger, simply visit a supported EV charging station, follow the instructions on the charger, then choose the connector you need for your EV and plug it in.

To access guidelines for connecting the charger to your EV, you can use online tools like the Open Charger Map. All you need to do is search for the CCS charging connector and follow the instructions provided. The connector will automatically lock itself into your EV when charging, then it will unlock once the charging process is complete.

As CCS charging systems can supply between 25kWh to 350kWh of energy, they can get your EV from zero percent to around eighty percent within just one hour. However, you must bear in mind that the speed at which your EV is charged is dependent on the capability of the car.

CCS Chargers vs CHAdeMO Chargers 

A CHAdeMo charger is an alternative type of DC connector which is currently more common than CCS. Originating from Japan, these connectors can be found at numerous public charging stations across the UK. However, as CCS chargers rise in popularity, they are beginning to become a preferred alternative to CHAdeMO connectors. 

CCS charging connectors are becoming more favoured in comparison to CHAdeMO chargers due to their reliability and the fact that they take up less space on the car as, unlike CHAdeMO, they don’t require a complete other connector. 

In 2018, EV powerhouse Tesla confirmed that their European Tesla Model 3 will adopt the CCS2 standard for DC charging.

Which cars use CCS charging?

Not all electric vehicles are compatible with CCS charging, so be sure to check the requirements for your specific vehicle. There are plenty of cars that support CCS charging, these include:

• BMW
• Jaguar
• Ford
• Kia
• Volkswagen 
• Renault 

Charging Your EV With YESSS Electrical 

Whether you’re looking for an EV charging station, EV charging cable or you’re simply in need of some EV charging accessories, YESSS Electrical can provide you with the right product for your needs. 

We supply a wide variety of EV charging products for both domestic and commercial properties, so you can rest assured that you’ll be able to find exactly what you need from our range.

Our team of EV specialists can also provide you with the help and advice you need to make the best choice for your electric vehicle. So, whether you need information on CCS charging, EV charger cables or EV charging points, you can trust that we’ve got the expertise to provide you with the assistance you need.

Browse our selection of EV products today or get in touch with us on 01924 227941 for more information.