Tesla makes CCS adapter standard for their model S and X vehicles in Europe

Recently, Tesla announced that they will include CCS adapter also in their Model S and X vehicles delivered in Europe, which implies that the buyers of a new Tesla EV in Europe will have access to the Tesla Superchargers as well CCS fast chargers. It should also be noted that, in November 2018, Tesla declared that Model 3 vehicles rolled out in the European market would come with a CCS combo 2 charge port. This will be a great boost for the exponential growth of the CCS EV connector market in the coming years.

MarketsandMarkets™ View Point:

Atul Kumar – Assistant Manager : Automotive & Transportation, at MarketsandMarkets™, shares his point of view as mentioned below :

Significant advances in battery technology and charging technology, increased vehicle range, financial support from governments in the form of tax rebates and subsidies, and regulations to promote eco-friendly vehicles are the key factors leading to the increase in the EV adoption rate. As the EV adoption rate is increasing, several governments are focusing on the development of EV vehicle charging infrastructure. OEMs have also started developing their own charging infrastructure for the convenience of their customers. For example, Tesla (US) has already initiated the development of supercharging stations that can charge a vehicle in less than 2 hours.

Quick charging infrastructure is necessary for the suitability of EVs for everyday use and their wide acceptance. The solution to this challenge is fast charger systems such as CCS (Combined Charging System). Many energy-providing companies are looking for the best possible fast charging solutions. PetroCanada, a Canadian EV charging infrastructure provider, has announced that it is building a fast charging DC network from Halifax to Vancouver, which stretches to about 6,000 KM. The route will be equipped with charging stations with both CCS and CHAdeMO chargers. Such rapid infrastructural developments are expected to contribute to the growth of the market for CCS and supercharger adapters for electric vehicles. This market scenario is favorable for the growth of EV connector market.

EV Connector Market
e- Estimated; p- Projected
Source: MarketsandMarkets™ Analysis

Importance of rapid charging adapters like CCS

CCS stands for the combined charging system, and this standard is supported by US and European automakers. It is a quick charging method for EVs, delivering high-voltage DC via a special electrical connector derived from SAE J1772 or IEC 62196-3 Type 2 connector. CCS has one charging port capable of both AC and DC charging. The packaging of a connector for multiple charging speeds—Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast charging—form the combined charging system, often referred to as “Combo Cord” or “Combo Coupler.” The safety features of CCS include diagnosable lock, proximity and control pilot, and PLC-based communication. It is designed for 200–600 V DC and 200 A.

The rapid developments in automotive technology have forced the major players in the EV connector market to introduce advanced connectors. This has led to an increasing demand for fast and rapid charging EV connectors across major competitive markets. The development in the technology of EV connectors has paved the way for connectors that operate above 600 V DC supply and allow rapid charging and thus extend the range. The continuous advancements in the EV connectors technology are expected to introduce the updated version of Level 3 EV connectors.  Many automotive experts have predicted that the upcoming EV connectors are likely to be operated through solar power or turbines.

Competitive scenario among EV connectors providers

The high emphasis of government on encouraging the adoption of EVs has forced the EV manufacturers to push the sales of electric vehicles. Several governments are investing heavily for the development of charging infrastructure. Therefore, major vehicle manufacturers are more inclined towards developing their own charging points to offer better services to the EV owners. The key players in the EV connectors market are looking to build robust product portfolio in EV offerings. For instance, in February 2017, Yazaki, a Japan-based EV connector provider, launched a Type 2 AC charging connector to expand its offerings and consumer base. The consistent increase in the demand for rapid charging connector for EV is triggering the major players to enhance their respective EV supply equipment and making the competition intense in the market. Also, in May 2018, HUBER+SUHNER, a leading Switzerland-based electrical component manufacturer, showcased its quality power solution to cater to the demand for fast charging system.

Conclusion:

Increasing government encouragement for the adoption of electric vehicles resulted in the inclination of automakers towards EVs and has accentuated the need for rapid EV charging network. This demand is fueling the growth of the EV connector market globally. Further, as Tesla stated that they are also installing CCS adapter in their vehicle for model S and X, it can be expected that after Tesla other global EV manufacturers such as Nissan which supports only CHADeMO may also launch vehicles which supports CCS in Europe.

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