Combined Charging System (CCS) in Ireland
Looking to charge your EV quickly at a public station? The Combined Charging System (CCS) is the most widely adopted DC fast charging connector in Ireland and across Europe. Whether you're topping up at a motorway service station or a retail car park, CCS is likely the plug you’ll use.
CCS connectors are designed for rapid and ultra-rapid charging and support speeds from 50kW up to 350kW. They combine a standard Type 2 AC connector with two additional DC power pins, making them ideal for high-speed public charging. Most new EVs from European manufacturers now come with CCS as standard.
What is the Combined Charging System (CCS)?
The Combined Charging System (CCS) is a fast-charging connector standard for electric vehicles. It builds on the existing Type 2 AC plug by adding two larger pins below for DC current, allowing much faster charging through public rapid chargers.
CCS is used primarily for DC (Direct Current) charging, where the conversion from AC to DC happens within the charger itself before the electricity reaches your vehicle. This method bypasses the car’s onboard charger, enabling significantly faster charging speeds.
Typical charging speeds with CCS
CCS connectors support a wide range of charging outputs, depending on the charger and your EV’s capabilities:
- 50kW: Most common fast charger in Ireland — adds up to 150km of range in around 30–45 minutes
- 150kW: Found at newer high-speed charging hubs — adds 100km+ in just 10–15 minutes
- 350kW: Ultra-rapid charging for compatible EVs — adds 100km in under 6 minutes, though rare in Ireland currently
While 50kW units remain the most widely available, ESB and other providers are rolling out more high-powered CCS chargers along national routes and motorways.
Which vehicles use CCS connectors?
CCS is now the standard DC fast charging plug for most new electric vehicles sold in Ireland and Europe. It is especially common in EVs from European and Korean manufacturers, such as:
- Audi
- BMW
- Volkswagen (VW)
- Volvo
- Hyundai and Kia
- Ford and Peugeot
Some earlier EVs (particularly from Nissan or Mitsubishi) use CHAdeMO instead, but CCS is quickly becoming the dominant standard across the Irish public charging network.
Where can I find CCS chargers in Ireland?
CCS-compatible chargers are widely available at public charging locations, including:
- Motorway service stations
- Shopping centres
- Retail parks and business parks
- Public charging hubs in cities and towns
Most rapid and high-power chargers installed by ESB, Ionity, EasyGo and other providers now feature CCS plugs. Many chargers are tethered, meaning the cable is built in — you won’t need to bring your own.
Frequently asked questions about CCS connectors
What does CCS stand for?
CCS stands for Combined Charging System. It combines a Type 2 AC connector with additional DC power pins to enable fast and ultra-fast charging at public stations.
Is CCS the same as a Type 2 connector?
Not exactly. CCS builds on the Type 2 connector by adding two larger pins for DC charging. The upper part of a CCS plug looks like a standard Type 2, but it includes extra contacts to allow rapid charging via DC current.
Can I use a CCS charger with any EV?
No. Only EVs equipped with a CCS inlet can use CCS connectors. Most new EVs sold in Ireland support CCS, but older or imported vehicles may use CHAdeMO or Type 2 only. Check your vehicle’s charging port to confirm compatibility.
Are CCS chargers tethered or untethered?
CCS chargers at public stations are almost always tethered, meaning the cable is attached to the charger. You simply plug it into your vehicle — no need to carry your own cable for rapid charging.
How fast can I charge using CCS in Ireland?
Charging speed depends on both the charger and your EV. Most CCS units in Ireland offer 50kW charging, which can charge your battery to 80% in about 30–45 minutes. Newer CCS chargers can deliver up to 150kW or more for faster charging, if your car supports it.
