CHAdeMO charging
CHArge de MOve (IEC 62196-3 Configuration AA)
Japan’s original DC fast-charging connector, common on Nissan Leaf and pre-2020 imports. New stations no longer install CHAdeMO outside Japan; existing chargers will remain operational for years.
200 kW
Peak power
DC
Current type
Japan · Asia · older European stations
Where you'll meet it
CHAdeMO in practice
- Formal designation
- CHArge de MOve (IEC 62196-3 Configuration AA)
- Current
- DC
- Max kW (commercial)
- 200
- Adoption status
- declining
Where to plug in a CHAdeMO car
The live map and country pages let you filter by connector. Pick a region to see only the stations that carry a CHAdeMO cable.
CHAdeMO: Japan's Pioneering DC Fast Charging Standard
CHAdeMO, short for CHArge de MOve, is the DC fast-charging standard that got its start in Japan. It's formally known as IEC 62196-3 Configuration AA. While it was once a global leader, its market share is now declining. Still, understanding CHAdeMO is crucial for drivers of older EVs.
History and Standardization
CHAdeMO began its life in 2010 as a Japanese industry consortium aimed at creating a unified DC fast-charging protocol. This effort led to the IEC 62196-3 standard. It was one of the first widely deployed DC fast-charging systems, setting the stage for quicker EV charging compared to slower AC methods.
Where to Find CHAdeMO
CHAdeMO connectors are most commonly found in Japan. You will also encounter them at older charging stations across Asia and Europe. Many early Nissan Leaf models and some other pre-2020 imports came equipped with CHAdeMO ports. Networks that deployed early DC fast chargers often included CHAdeMO.
Power and Performance
Commercial CHAdeMO stations can deliver a peak power of 200 kW. However, actual charging speeds depend heavily on the car's onboard charging system and its generation. Earlier EVs might have been limited to 50 kW or less, while later models could take advantage of higher outputs, though typically not the full 200 kW. Modern EVs designed for higher power charging often max out around 100 kW on CHAdeMO.
Adapters and Compatibility
There are no direct adapters to convert a CHAdeMO plug to a CCS or Type 2 connector, or vice versa. If your car has both a CHAdeMO port and a CCS or Type 2 port, you will need to select the appropriate charger. Most newer EVs are not equipped with CHAdeMO ports.
Future Outlook
CHAdeMO adoption is declining globally, with most manufacturers and charging networks favoring the CCS standard. Outside of Japan, new CHAdeMO installations are rare. However, existing CHAdeMO chargers are expected to remain operational for many years, serving the remaining vehicles that use the standard.
- What cars use the CHAdeMO connector?
- CHAdeMO connectors are primarily found on older models of electric vehicles, most notably the Nissan Leaf from its early generations up to around 2020. Some other Japanese and early import EVs also came with CHAdeMO ports. If you own a newer EV model, especially those released after 2020, it is unlikely to have a CHAdeMO port as manufacturers have largely shifted to the CCS standard.
- Can I charge my CCS-equipped car with a CHAdeMO charger?
- No, you cannot directly charge a car with a CCS connector using a CHAdeMO charger. The physical plugs and communication protocols are different. There are no adapters that allow a CHAdeMO charger to power a CCS port or vice versa. You must ensure the charging station's connector matches your car's charging port.
- How fast can a CHAdeMO charger charge my car?
- CHAdeMO stations can deliver a peak power of up to 200 kW. However, the actual charging speed is limited by your car's onboard charging capability. Older EVs might only accept 50 kW, while newer ones compatible with CHAdeMO could potentially charge faster, though often not exceeding 100 kW in practice. Always check your vehicle's specifications.
- Is CHAdeMO still being installed in new charging stations?
- Outside of Japan, the installation of new CHAdeMO charging stations is very uncommon. The global trend has strongly shifted towards the CCS (Combined Charging System) standard for DC fast charging. While existing CHAdeMO chargers will continue to operate, new infrastructure development predominantly focuses on CCS connectors.
- Where are CHAdeMO chargers most common?
- CHAdeMO chargers are most prevalent in Japan, where the standard originated and saw widespread adoption. You will also find them at many older DC fast charging locations in other parts of Asia and Europe. If you are traveling in these regions and driving an older EV, CHAdeMO stations can still be a viable charging option.
Find CHAdeMO chargers near you
Drill into any indexed country for the full list of stations that carry a CHAdeMO socket.