What Is an Electric Vehicle Charging Socket? Types and Selection Criteria
An electric vehicle charging socket is the cabled plug that carries energy from the charging station to the vehicle inlet; Europe uses CCS2 for DC fast charging.
An electric vehicle charging socket (charging gun, vehicle connector) is the cabled plug that carries energy from the charging station to the vehicle and is inserted into the vehicle's charging inlet. DC fast-charging stations in Europe and Türkiye use the CCS2 (Combo 2) type: communication contacts at the top and two large DC power contacts at the bottom. The socket also carries the communication signals between station and vehicle; the station uses them to detect that the vehicle is ready and to start the current.
CCS2 DC charging sockets in the catalog
| Model | Current | Cable cross-section (product data) | Cable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bemis BEVDC-1011-0005 | 150 A | 2x50 + 1x25 + 6x1 mm² | 5 m, TTR, one end open |
| Bemis BEVDC-2011-0005 | 250 A | 2x70 + 1x35 + 6x1 mm² | 5 m, TTR, one end open |
| Bemis BEVDC-3011-0005 | 400 A | 4x50 + 1x35 + 6x1 mm² | 5 m, TTR, one end open |
The cross-section values are taken from the product data; check the function of each core and the wiring diagram in the datasheet. The cable is supplied with one end open and is connected to the connection point inside the station.
Selection criteria
- Current rating: The socket's current rating must not be lower than the station's maximum output current. Find the current by dividing the station power by the voltage; at the same power, a vehicle with a lower battery voltage draws more current.
- Cable cross-section and heating: Cable and contacts heat up at high current. Check the permitted current in continuous operation and the ambient temperature limit in the datasheet.
- Length: The sockets in the catalog have 5 m cables. Check whether this is enough for the parking layout and the position of the vehicle's charging inlet; do not leave the cable where it can be run over.
- Compatibility with the station: The socket's control cores must suit the station's control board and be connected according to the station manufacturer's instructions.
- Socket holder: A socket holder keeps the socket safely on the station when charging ends; the Bemis BAK-8200-0002 in the catalog is a 4-ball DC socket holder.
Common mistakes
- Fitting a socket rated below the station's current: The socket and cable overheat and the contacts are damaged.
- Leaving the cable on the ground: A vehicle wheel crushes the cable and socket; use a holder and a cable hanger.
- Having the connection done by unqualified people: A DC charging station carries high voltage; the socket must be replaced and connected by qualified personnel with the station de-energised.
Charging sockets at Welibaba
The Electric Vehicle Charging Sockets category has 4 active products from the Bemis E-V Charge range: the 150 A, 250 A and 400 A CCS2 DC charging sockets are listed with prices, and the BAK-8200-0002 DC socket holder is sold on quotation. Stations are in the Electric Vehicle Charging Stations category and explained in the charging station guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is a CCS2 socket?
It is the socket type used for DC fast charging in Europe and Türkiye. It adds two DC power contacts below the Type 2 inlet used for AC charging; vehicles with a CCS2 inlet can be charged with both AC and DC.
What current rating should I choose for a charging socket?
One that covers the station's maximum output current. The catalog offers 150 A, 250 A and 400 A.
Can a charging socket be replaced on its own?
Yes, a worn or damaged socket is replaced together with its cable. The connection must be made according to the station manufacturer's instructions by qualified personnel.