The Type 2 connector, also known as the Mennekes Type 2 cable, is the European Union’s chosen standard for electric vehicle charging stations. This connector not only facilitates the charging of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles but also ensures interoperability between different charging stations and vehicles. In this article, we will delve into its features, charging capacity, and compare it with other connectors available in the market.
Its robust and versatile design has made it the standard in Europe and other emerging markets, aiding in the transition towards electric mobility.
- 1 History and adoption of the Type 2 Connector
- 2 Features of the Mennekes Type 2 connector
- 3 Available charging modes
- 4 Applications and advantages of the Mennekes Type 2 connector
- 5 Compatibility and adapters
- 6 Comparison with other connectors
- 7 How Long Does it Take to Charge an Electric Car with a Type 2 Connector?
History and adoption of the Type 2 Connector
In January 2013, the European Commission selected the IEC 62196-2 Type 2 connector as the official standard for electric vehicle charging within the European Union. Since then, it has been adopted in countries outside Europe, such as New Zealand, Morocco, and various regions in North Africa.
Advantages over other connectors
The primary advantage of the Mennekes Type 2 connector lies in its capability to handle both Alternating Current (AC) and Direct Current (DC) charging. Unlike the CHAdeMO or Combo CCS connectors, which have limitations in compatibility and charging speed, the Type 2 connector offers a more flexible and efficient solution for electric vehicle charging.
Features of the Mennekes Type 2 connector
The Type 2 connector features a circular design with a flat top edge, enabling secure and efficient connection. It is designed to handle a wide range of power outputs, from 3 kW up to 50 kW in basic configurations, and can reach up to 150 kW in fast-charging stations.
Design and Charging Capacity
The Type 2 connector is known for its robust design and ability to support high power outputs. It utilizes a seven-pin connector that allows:
- Single-Phase AC: Up to 70 A.
- Three-Phase AC: Up to 63 A with a maximum voltage of 500 V.
This enables a maximum charging power of 43 kW in AC, which is more than sufficient for most rapid-charging applications.
Compatibility with Fast Charging Systems and AC and DC Currents
The Mennekes Type 2 connector can be used for home charging via a standard domestic socket or charging station, as well as for public charging stations.
In its Combo 2 variant, it can supply electricity in both AC and DC, making it extremely versatile. It is compatible with both single-phase and three-phase loads, allowing its use across a variety of charging infrastructures, from home installations to high-power public charging stations.
Available charging modes
The Mennekes Type 2 connector offers four different charging modes depending on the power and current used. These modes make this type of cable highly versatile. Keep reading as we explain how these Mennekes Type 2 connectors work.
Mode 1 of the Mennekes Type 2 cable: Basic charging
The Mennekes Type 2 cable provides Mode 1 for simple charging through standard 230-volt household plugs, with a maximum current of 16 amps and power up to 3.7 kW. It’s ideal for vehicle charging in residential environments.
Mode 2 of the Mennekes Type 2 Cable: Enhanced charging
The Mennekes Type 2 cable offers Mode 2 for faster charging with a current of up to 32 amps in single-phase or three-phase systems, achieving power up to 22 kW. This mode is suitable for home charging installations with higher electrical demand and public charging points.
Mode 3 of the Mennekes Type 2 Cable: Fast AC charging
The Mennekes Type 2 cable features Mode 3, the most advanced for AC charging, allowing powers exceeding 20 kW. It is preferred for public charging stations where charging speed is critical.
Mode 4 of the Mennekes Type 2 Cable: DC charging
For rapid charging in direct current, Mode 4 of the Mennekes Type 2 cable allows powers up to 240 kW, significantly reducing charging time. It’s the ideal choice for fast-charging stations on highways and service areas.
| Type | Nominal Voltage | Phases | Maximum Current | Power |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AC Mode 1 | 230 V | Monophase | 13-16 A | 3-3,7 kW |
| AC Mode 1 | 230-400 V | Mono/Three-phase | ≤ 32 A | 7,4-22 kW |
| AC Mode 1 | Varies | Mono/Three-phase | > 20 kW | > 20 kW |
| DC Type 1 | 200–450 V | DC | 80 A | 36 kW |
| DC Type 1 | 200–450 V | DC | 200 A | 90 kW |
| DC Type 1 | 200–600 V | DC | 400 A | 240 kW |
Applications and advantages of the Mennekes Type 2 connector
The advancement of electric mobility has brought forth various charging technologies designed to enhance the efficiency and safety of electric vehicles. Among these advancements, the Mennekes Type 2 connector has emerged as a widely adopted standard in Europe and other regions, noted for its versatility and reliability.
This connector is preferred by many automobile manufacturers due to its ability to adapt to a wide range of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, including popular models like the Tesla Model 3, Nissan Leaf, and BMW 3 Series.
Safety and efficiency
The Mennekes Type 2 connector is designed to ensure safe and efficient charging, with features such as short-circuit protection and signal communication between the vehicle and charging point to manage current intensity.
Automatic locking system
A key feature of the Type 2 connector is its automatic locking system, ensuring a secure connection and preventing accidental disconnection during the charging process. This feature is especially useful in public charging stations, where connection safety and stability are crucial.
Compatibility and adapters
Although the Mennekes Type 2 cable is the dominant standard in Europe, there are still charging stations that require other types of connectors. In such cases, adapters can be used to connect vehicles with a Type 2 connector to charging stations using different connectors. These adapters pose no risk to the vehicle and do not affect charging efficiency or cost.
Comparison with other connectors
Several standards exist in the market, each with its own advantages and limitations. In this section, we’ll compare two prominent charging connectors: CHAdeMO and Combo CCS. We’ll analyze their characteristics, regional applications, and their impact on current and future charging infrastructure compared to the Mennekes Type 2.
CHAdeMO connector
The CHAdeMO connector is one of the oldest standards primarily used in Japan and a few other countries. Despite its capability for rapid charging, its adoption is limited due to competition with newer standards like Mennekes Type 2 and Combo CCS.
Combo CCS connector
The Combo CCS (Combined Charging System) is a variant of the Mennekes Type 2 connector that incorporates two additional pins for rapid DC charging. This combination allows greater versatility and compatibility with a wide range of fast-charging stations in Europe and North America.
How Long Does it Take to Charge an Electric Car with a Type 2 Connector?
The power transferred through a Type 2 connector enables fast and efficient charging. For instance, the new Renault ZOE can charge up to 125 kilometers of range in just one hour when connected to a 22 kW public charging station. However, it’s important to note that once the battery reaches 80% of its capacity, the charging process slows down to prevent battery damage, regardless of the connector type used.
The IEC 62196-2 Mennekes Type 2 connector, known as Mennekes, has proven to be an essential component in the global electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Its versatility, safety features, and ability to handle various power levels make it the preferred choice for most electric vehicle manufacturers and users. As electric mobility continues to grow, the adoption of this connector is likely to expand further, solidifying its position as the global standard for electric vehicle charging.
