What Is a CCS Connector?

CCS stands for Combined Charging System. It is the dominant standard for rapid and ultra-rapid DC charging in the UK and Europe. The connector combines a Type 2 AC inlet at the top with two additional DC pins below, which is why you will see it described as CCS Combo or CCS2. Most new European EVs use a CCS port as their primary rapid-charging inlet, and the infrastructure across UK motorways and major charging hubs is built around it. For a full overview of how home and public charging connects together, see our Guides index.

What is the difference between AC and DC charging?

The electricity that comes from the grid is AC (alternating current). Your EV's battery stores DC (direct current). When you charge at home or at a slow or fast AC charger, an onboard charger inside the car converts AC to DC. The speed of that conversion is limited by the car's onboard charger capacity. With DC rapid charging via CCS, the conversion happens inside the charger unit itself, which bypasses the onboard charger and allows much higher power levels to flow directly into the battery. This is why rapid chargers can add range far more quickly than home chargers.

Which cars use a CCS connector?

The majority of new European EVs use CCS as their rapid-charging connector. This covers vehicles from Volkswagen Group brands, BMW, Mercedes, Hyundai, Kia, Stellantis brands, and many others. Tesla models sold in Europe and the UK have adopted CCS on newer builds, moving away from their earlier proprietary connector. If you are unsure which connector your vehicle uses, check the manufacturer's specifications page or the vehicle handbook. Some older EVs use CHAdeMO for DC rapid charging rather than CCS.

Do I need to buy my own CCS cable?

No. CCS chargers are always tethered, meaning the cable is permanently attached to the charger unit. You simply pick up the cable, plug into your car, and the session begins. This is different from many AC chargers, where the cable is not attached and drivers need to bring a Type 2 cable of their own. For home and workplace AC charging, a Type 2 cable is still essential.

Why do I still need a Type 2 cable if my car has CCS?

CCS and Type 2 serve different purposes. Your car's CCS port handles DC rapid charging at public rapid chargers. The upper portion of the same port doubles as a Type 2 AC inlet for slower AC charging. At home chargers, most workplace chargers, and many destination chargers (hotels, car parks), you plug in using the Type 2 AC connection. Many of these chargers are untethered and expect you to bring your own cable. A good quality Type 2 cable covers home, workplace, and a large proportion of public AC charge points across the UK.

What power levels are available on CCS chargers?

CCS is used across a wide range of rapid and ultra-rapid charger tiers: commonly 50kW, 100kW, and 150kW units in roadside and retail locations, with 350kW ultra-rapid chargers appearing at motorway hubs. The actual charge rate your car accepts depends on its own maximum DC charge rate, which varies by model. Check the manufacturer's published specification for your vehicle rather than assuming a charger's output equals what enters your battery.

Is CCS future-proof for UK drivers?

CCS2 is the mandated connector standard for rapid public charging in the UK and across the EU. Investment in CCS infrastructure continues to grow, and the standard has broad manufacturer support. While connector technology does evolve, no credible successor standard has been announced for European markets. For UK drivers buying a new EV with CCS today, the infrastructure is well established and expanding.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a CCS charger with a Type 2 cable?

No. CCS rapid chargers are tethered and only use the CCS connector. A Type 2 cable is for AC charging only and does not connect to a DC rapid charging unit. The two connectors are physically different, so there is no risk of accidentally connecting the wrong cable.

Does my car need a special adapter for CCS?

If your car has a CCS inlet, no adapter is needed for CCS chargers. If your car has CHAdeMO or another connector type, adapters exist but may be limited in power output or compatibility. Always confirm adapter compatibility with your vehicle manufacturer before relying on one for long journeys.

How long does it take to charge on a CCS rapid charger?

Charge time depends on three factors: the charger's output power, your car's maximum DC charge rate, and the current state of the battery. As a general guide, most drivers aim to charge from a low state to around 80%, after which the charge rate slows. Check your car's handbook or manufacturer website for estimated charge times at specific power levels.

Is CCS the same as CCS1?

No. CCS1 is the North American variant, which combines a Type 1 (J1772) AC inlet with two DC pins. CCS2 (used in the UK and Europe) combines a Type 2 AC inlet with the same two DC pins. The DC pins are physically identical between the two variants, but the AC portion of the connector differs, making them incompatible without an adapter.

What happens if a CCS charger is out of service?

Most network apps show live charger status. If you arrive at a faulty unit, contact the network's support number displayed on the charger. For longer journeys, identifying at least one backup charge point location in advance reduces the risk of a single faulty unit causing a problem.

Can CCS charge a Tesla in the UK?

Newer Tesla models sold in the UK use a CCS inlet and can use any CCS rapid charger. Older UK Teslas with a proprietary connector can use a CCS adapter available from Tesla. Check your specific vehicle's connector type and the adapter options available directly from Tesla's website.

Understanding your car's connector type is the foundation of a smooth charging experience. Browse Type 2 charging cables for home and AC destination charging, or visit charging cables by car to find the right cable for your specific vehicle.