At Power2Drive 2025, Phoenix Contact introduced the second generation of its CHARX connect professional, a high-power charging (HPC) connector designed for up to 1,000 kW charging power in boost mode, a significant leap from the current limits of the Combined Charging Standard (CCS). This new connector, while using the CCS standard, is capable of providing rapid charging performance for electric vehicles, including buses, trucks, and future passenger cars, positioning Phoenix Contact as a leader in the evolution of electric vehicle charging.
The CHARX connect professional connector uses liquid cooling to achieve impressive performance, allowing for up to 800 kW of continuous charging. The cooling system, featuring an environmentally friendly coolant, is channeled directly through the power cores for optimized heat management. This development comes in response to the overheating challenges traditionally faced in higher power charging applications, particularly in electric trucks and buses. Michael Heinemann, CEO of Phoenix Contact E-Mobility, highlighted the connector’s versatility, stating that it is compatible with a broad range of vehicles currently equipped with CCS2 connectors across Europe.
In addition to the performance improvements, the new connector is lighter by 20% compared to the previous generation, making it more ergonomic and easier to handle. The design enhancements also include a more flexible cable and an improved grip area, which should make the overall charging experience more user-friendly. The connector’s modular design allows for easy maintenance without the need to drain coolant, further enhancing its sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
Beyond the CHARX connect professional, Phoenix Contact also showcased the CHARX connect universal CCS charging sockets, capable of charging up to 700 kW. These new charging sockets, available with pre-assembled cable harnesses, cater to a range of applications, including commercial vehicles and heavy goods trucks. Phoenix Contact’s continued commitment to high-performance, user-friendly charging solutions underscores its goal to streamline the transition to electric mobility across industries.