The Type 1 connector supports single-phase AC charging at power levels up to 7.4 kW (240V, 32A), making it ideal for slower, everyday charging needs like overnight home charging or charging at work. Its five-pin design includes dedicated pins for power, grounding, and communication between the vehicle and the charging station. The Control Pilot and Proximity Pilot pins, for instance, manage the connection, monitoring the current and preventing the vehicle from moving during charging. This layout ensures that charging is both safe and efficient, creating a reliable system that is user-friendly and widely accessible.
With its focus on single-phase AC, the Type 1 connector offers a straightforward solution for the North American and Japanese markets but does not support the high-speed, three-phase AC charging commonly used in Europe. As a result, the connector is limited in charging speed compared to other international standards, such as the Type 2 connector in Europe. However, for North American EV users, the Type 1 connector remains the standard for Level 1 and Level 2 charging, providing a practical and accessible solution for daily recharging needs.
As EV infrastructure and technology evolve, Type 1 connectors continue to play a foundational role in North America’s charging landscape, balancing accessibility and practicality. Although it may lack the rapid charging capabilities found in DC fast chargers, the Type 1 connector remains essential for standard AC charging in residential and public locations, meeting the needs of a growing EV market.