27 August 2025
More and more drivers in Europe are choosing to buy an electric car imported from China. They are cheaper, modern and increasingly suited to drivers' needs. However, Chinese EV charging standards differ from those used in Europe. China has a GB/T connector, which is not compatible with chargers in Europe, such as the popular Type 2 or CCS2. This causes problems for charging imported cars outside China. This is why adapters for Chinese electric cars are essential - they connect the different systems and allow charging at European stations without problems.
What is GB/T - how does it differ from European standards?
GB/T, or 'Guóbiāo/Tuījì', is an electric vehicle charging standard applicable within China. It includes specifications for protocols and connector types used for direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) power transmission. The GB/T standard was developed mainly for Chinese vehicle manufacturers and the country's charging infrastructure. It is used in vehicle brands such as NIO, Xpeng, SAIC, Forthing, MG, Jaecoo, Geely and BYD.
GB/T connector features:
- Different design: Although at first glance the Type 2 and GB/T (AC) connectors look almost identical, they differ in an important detail - the pins in the car's socket. In Europe (Type 2), the socket is male (the pins stick out), while in cars from China (GB/T AC), the pins in the socket are female (they have holes). In contrast, the GB/T version of the DC charging connector is quite different in shape and pins from European standards. This means that Chinese cars cannot be directly connected to European chargers.
- Charging parameters: Chinese cars have two types of GB/T connectors - for alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) charging. The AC connector is used for everyday charging and allows charging at up to 22 kW, depending on the car and the power source. The DC connector, on the other hand, already allows fast charging, with voltages up to 1000 V and amperage up to 250 A. To take advantage of these parameters in Europe, a CCS2 to GB/T adaptor is required to connect Chinese cars to European fast chargers.
- Communication protocol: the GB/T DC also uses different communication protocols to European systems. This means that the car and the station must not only physically connect, but also 'get along' with each other to start charging.
Why does the GB/T require an adapter to charge in Europe?
European DC charging stations mainly use CCS2 or Type 2 connectors, so Chinese vehicles with GB/T sockets need special adapters to enable the safe transfer of energy between different systems.
CCS2 to GB/T adapter - a practical product for Chinese EV drivers
In Europe, the dominant standard for DC fast charging stations is CCS2 (Combined Charging System). This solution was adopted by the European Union to standardise the market and ensure compatibility between different vehicles and charging stations. It is particularly practical for those travelling in Europe - drivers can use a fast charging station in any country.
Electric cars imported from China equipped with a GB/T DC socket cannot be connected directly to a European CCS2 station. This is where the CCS2 to GB/T adapter plays an invaluable role. The adapter acts as a translator between the two systems. It physically adapts the plug, allowing it to be plugged into the vehicle's socket, while converting the signals so that the charger and car can communicate correctly. With the adapter, the owner of a Chinese electric car can safely use the growing network of CCS2 stations in Europe.
Importantly, the CCS2 to GB/T adapters support high voltages and currents, in line with the specifications of both systems. This means that charging takes place at the speed achieved by European electric car models. In practice, the Chinese car driver does not lose any time, but only needs an additional component to ensure full compatibility.
Type 2 to GB/T adapter - why is it essential for Chinese electric cars?
Another solution available on the market is the Type 2 to GB/T adapter. The Type 2 standard, also known as Mennekes, is the predominant connector in Europe for alternating current (AC) charging. Unlike the GB/T AC standard, which applies in China, Type 2 uses a different connector. This means that a Chinese electric car cannot be directly connected to a European Type 2 AC station. This is where the Type 2 to GB/T AC adapter comes in handy, allowing full compatibility between the two systems.
Importantly, Type 2 to GB/T adapters fall into two main categories:
- Type 2 to GB/T 1-phase adapters are designed for charging using a single AC phase. They offer lower charging power, typically in the range up to 7.2 kW. This type of solution is particularly suited to domestic settings where access to a three-phase electrical system is limited.
- Type 2 to GB/T 3-phase adapters enable you to benefit from the full potential of European AC stations and chargers. They allow power outputs of up to 22 kW to be achieved, allowing cars with larger batteries to be charged much more quickly. They are particularly suitable for public charging stations where efficient charging is important.
Choosing the right adapter therefore depends on the needs of the user. The cheaper and simpler 1-phase adapter is ideal for domestic use. The more powerful 3-phase adapter reduces charging time, which is useful if you frequently use public stations.
CHAdeMO to GB/T adapter - safety and convenience for EV drivers from China
Among the solutions available is the CHAdeMO to GB/T adapter. The CHAdeMO standard was developed in Japan and for many years was one of the main DC fast charging solutions in Europe. Although it has given way to CCS2 in recent years, there are still stations that support CHAdeMO. Currently, this solution will work best in the USA, where the CHAdeMO standard is still the most popular solution.
The use of the CHAdeMO adapter for the GB/T is all about greater flexibility and travel convenience. Electric car drivers from China can thus use the EV charging infrastructure of older types. This solution works particularly well in regions where the CCS2 network is not developed. Examples include Japan or the USA, where CHAdeMO still dominates and provides wide access to fast charging. With the adapter, it is possible to power the vehicle safely, giving drivers the confidence to reach their destination without worrying about the lack of compatible stations.
How do you choose the right adapter for a Chinese electric car?
Choosing the right adapter for Chinese electric cars depends on the type of charging station or charger you use most often. CCS2 to GB/T adapters will work best for fast charging at direct current (DC) stations. Type 2 to GB/T adapters allow you to conveniently use commonly available alternating current (AC) charging points and Type 2 home chargers. Drivers should pay attention to the maximum voltage and amperage supported by the adapter to maintain charging efficiency. A well-chosen adapter not only ensures compatibility, but also enables a Chinese car to charge comfortably and quickly in Europe.
Adapters for Chinese electric cars will work well for vehicles from brands such as BYD, NIO or Xpeng. With them, owners of these cars can easily use European charging stations, whether they prefer DC fast charging or common AC charging.
Adapters for Chinese electric cars - EV charging products in Europe
Adapters for Chinese EVs allow drivers to use European charging stations. They adapt the GB/T plug to standards such as CCS2 or Type 2, so that the EV communicates correctly with the station and charges safely. The adapters are a convenient solution for drivers who import EVs from China and want to charge them in Europe without problems.
The Akyga® brand offers adapters for Chinese cars that allow vehicles with a GB/T connector to be charged at European CCS2 and Type 2 stations. These adapters connect the car to the European infrastructure, eliminating compatibility issues. They make charging simple, fast and safe.
Chinese EV adapters from Akyga® are lightweight, durable and easy to use. They comply with European safety standards, providing reassurance to the user. With them, drivers of Chinese EVs can travel around Europe without worrying about the lack of compatible stations. All information about the specifications, features and availability of the adapters can be found on the Akyga® website or obtained by contacting the technical department. Check out the available Akyga® products and choose a charging adapter for Omoda, MG, BYD, Jaecoo, BAIC or Forthing.
