Choosing the right connector is key to hassle-free charging. In Europe, you will encounter three main standards. This guide helps you understand the differences and pick the right cable for your vehicle.
Type 2 (Mennekes) — the AC charging standard
Type 2, sometimes called Mennekes, is the European standard for AC charging. It supports power levels from 3.7 to 43 kW (three-phase). Virtually every EV sold in Europe has a Type 2 socket. You need a Type 2 cable for home wallboxes and public AC stations. Most public stations have an attached cable, but some older ones require you to bring your own.
CCS2 (Combo 2) — DC fast charging
CCS2 (Combined Charging System 2) combines the Type 2 connector with two DC pins. It supports power from 50 to 350 kW and is the de facto standard for DC charging in Europe. Since 2024, it is mandatory for all new charging stations in the EU. The CCS2 cable is always part of the charging station — you do not need to buy one.
CHAdeMO — the Japanese standard
CHAdeMO is an older Japanese DC standard used by the Nissan Leaf, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, and older Toyotas. Maximum power is 62.5 kW (typically 50 kW in practice). CHAdeMO stations are declining across Europe — new operators install CCS2 exclusively. If buying a new car, you will not need CHAdeMO.
Tesla — now using the European standard
Tesla in Europe uses Type 2 for AC and CCS2 for DC charging (unlike the American NACS). Tesla Supercharger stations in Czech Republic have been open to all CCS2 vehicles since 2024. No special adapter needed.
Practical advice
When buying an EV, verify what connector it has for AC (onboard charger) and DC input. For home wallbox, you need a Type 2 to Type 2 cable (5–7 m length is sufficient). On the road, use apps like NajdiNabíječku.cz, PlugShare, or Mapy.cz — they show connector types at each station. Remember: CCS2 is the future, CHAdeMO is fading out.