What kind of connector works with DC fast charging?

Whilst almost all passenger vehicles can use DC fast charging, the process of charging itself may require a different connector than the one your vehicle uses with AC charging.

Looking at the European level, there are two standards for DC charging connectors—CCS and CHAdeMO—as well as Tesla’s signature Supercharger which you have to consider.

Combined Charging System (CCS) allows for both AC and DC charging through the same input port, while vehicles equipped with CHAdeMO have a separate port for AC charging and can’t charge faster than 50 kW.

Due to this shortfall, CCS is becoming the dominant standard across Europe and North America and CHAdeMO is getting phased out across both continents.

While there are still over half a million vehicles with CHAdeMO plugs on the road in Europe, Europe recently announced that CCS2 will become the standard.

That means that a CCS connector is likely to be necessary for DC fast charging in the future—at least in North America and Europe.

Does DC fast charging cost more than AC charging?
It is most likely that DC fast charging does cost more than charging your electric vehicle with AC power. When you’re paying for DC charging, you’re paying extra for the convenience of charging your vehicle quickly.

The price difference, however, depends on the location in which you charge and whether the charging station bills by the minute or by kWh.

Balancing price and convenience comes down to knowing what’s best for your vehicle. For instance, if your vehicle's maximum DC charging capability is 50 kW and you're occupying the ultra-Fast Charging Station (250 kW), then you're going to be paying more whilst still receiving the same charge.

Ultimately, the answer is yes, DC fast charging costs more than AC charging, but it’s important to ask yourself, “Do I actually need to charge this fast or is it more logical to charge slower?”