SAE J1772
SAE J1772 is the North American recommended practice for the conductive charging coupler and the interface between an EV and charging equipment. It covers physical, electrical, functional, and performance requirements rather than naming only a plug shape.
Standard and connector
In everyday use, J1772 connector usually means the five-contact AC vehicle connector commonly called Type 1. SAE J1772 is broader: it defines the vehicle inlet and mating connector, control functions, and operational requirements for conductive charging.
The interface carries AC power along with control-pilot and proximity functions used by the vehicle and Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE). During AC Charging, the vehicle's onboard charger converts the supplied AC to DC for the traction battery.
J1772 does not by itself mean one charging power or one electrical service. Actual power depends on the supply, EVSE, cable, connector ratings, and vehicle limits. It is also not synonymous with a charging level, payment system, or charging-network protocol.
Combined Charging System (CCS) Combo 1 uses the J1772-derived upper portion for AC and signalling and adds two larger DC contacts below it. A vehicle can therefore have a Combo 1 inlet that accepts the AC J1772 connector as well as a larger DC connector, but J1772 and CCS Combo 1 are not interchangeable names.
For comparison with Type 2, CCS, J3400, CHAdeMO, and other interfaces, see EV Charging Connectors and Inlets.