What is CHAdeMO?

CHAdeMO is a type of EV connector that offers a quick charge and is popular at rapid charging stations. While your typical home charging unit will offer charging at a rate of 7kW, the CHAdeMO set-up really takes it up a level and can reach ranges of 400kW.

In a Nissan Leaf, the CHAdeMo connector can offer a charge from 20% to 80% in as little as 60 minutes. That’s ideal for getting a boost on the go, and perfect for longer road trips.

How do CHAdeMO connectors work?

CHAdeMO connectors use direct current (DC) to power up the car’s battery and carry out the conversion from alternating current (AC) in the charging point. AC is what the national grid in the UK supplies, so the conversion is necessary for the charging of our EVs.

If you choose to charge with a standard AC home charger, the vehicle itself will carry out the conversion to DC. It used a rectifier to convert the AC power into DC that the vehicle can use.

Choosing a CHAdeMO connector that can do those conversions itself means it can charge quicker.

What does CHAdeMO stand for?

As CHAdeMO is the creation of Japanese companies Nissan, Mitsubishi, Toyota, Fuki, and Tokyo Electric Power, it’s no surprise that the name gives a nod to its roots.

‘CHAdeMO’ is a play on the phrase ‘CHArge de MOve’, which means ‘charge for moving’. It’s a pun on the Japanese phrase ‘O cha demo ikaga desuka’, which translates to ‘let’s have a cup of tea while charging’.

Which cars use CHAdeMO connectors?

You probably won't be shocked to hear that CHAdeMO charging is favoured by Japanese carmakers, since they put the work in to get it into action.

The EV models that can use the rapid CHAdeMO connector are:

• Toyota Prius Plug-In

• Citroen C-Zero

• Nissan Leaf

• Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

• Nissan e-NV200

• Kia Soul EV Mk1

• Citroen Berlingo Electric Mk1

• Tesla Model S (with an adapter fitted)