1. Clear Definition
GB/T is China’s national standard for EV charging, governed by a series of specifications including GB/T 20234 (connector physical interface) and GB/T 27930 (communication protocol). CCS2 (Combined Charging System Type 2) is the European standard for DC fast charging.
Converting a GB/T charging station to CCS2—or more precisely, enabling a GB/T station to charge CCS2-equipped vehicles—requires addressing three fundamental differences:
Difference Aspect GB/T Standard CCS2 Standard
Connector Shape GB/T DC connector (7-pin) CCS2 Combo connector (Type 2 + DC pins)
Communication Protocol CAN bus (GB/T 27930, 250 kbit/s) PLC (Power Line Communication) over CP pin, ISO 15118/DIN 70121
Physical Locking Mechanical latch Electronic locking with pilot signal
A conversion adapter is the primary solution—an intelligent device that bridges both physical connectivity and protocol translation between the two standards.
Important Clarification: There are two types of adapters:
GB/T → CCS2 Adapter: Allows a CCS2 vehicle to charge at a GB/T charging station (the focus of this article)
CCS2 → GB/T Adapter: Allows a GB/T vehicle to charge at a CCS2 charging station
2. Application Scenarios
Scenario Description Target Users
Imported EVs in China European-made EVs (Tesla EU imports, Porsche, BMW, Mercedes, VW, Hyundai, Kia) with CCS2 ports needing to use China’s GB/T public charging network Expatriates, diplomats, business travelers
Chinese EVs Abroad Chinese EV brands (BYD, NIO, Xpeng) with GB/T ports operating in CCS2-dominant regions (Europe, Middle East, Australia) Fleet operators, logistics companies
Fleet Transitions Organizations transitioning between GB/T and CCS2 vehicle fleets Fleet managers, public transport operators
R&D & Testing Imported CCS2 vehicles used for development or demonstration in China Automotive R&D teams
Cross-Border Logistics Commercial vehicles operating across regions with different charging standards Logistics companies
3. Technical Process: How GB/T to CCS2 Conversion Works
Step-by-Step Workflow
text
┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ GB/T → CCS2 CONVERSION PROCESS │
├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ │
│ ┌──────────────┐ ┌──────────────┐ ┌──────────────┐ ┌──────────┐ │
│ │ 1. Physical │───▶│ 2. Protocol │───▶│ 3. Parameter │───▶│ 4. Power │ │
│ │ Connection │ │ Translation │ │ Mapping │ │Delivery │ │
│ └──────────────┘ └──────────────┘ └──────────────┘ └──────────┘ │
│ │ │ │ │ │
│ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ │
│ ┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐ │
│ │ │ │
│ │ GB/T Charging Station Adapter CCS2 Vehicle │ │
│ │ ┌─────────────────┐ ┌──────────────────┐ ┌──────────────┐ │ │
│ │ │ GB/T Connector │────│ Physical Adapter │────│ CCS2 Inlet │ │ │
│ │ │ (7-pin DC) │ │ + Protocol Bridge│ │ (Combo) │ │ │
│ │ └─────────────────┘ └──────────────────┘ └──────────────┘ │ │
│ │ │ │ │ │ │
│ │ GB/T 27930 (CAN) CAN → PLC Bridge ISO 15118 (PLC) │ │
│ │ 250 kbit/s[reference:8] │ Protocol Translation │ over CP pin │ │
│ │ │ │
│ └──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘ │
│ │
└─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
Detailed Steps:
Step 1: Physical Connection
Connect the GB/T charging station’s cable to the adapter’s GB/T input side
Ensure the connector locks into place securely
Step 2: Protocol Translation
The adapter receives CAN bus signals (GB/T 27930) from the charging station
It translates these into PLC signals (ISO 15118/DIN 70121) understood by the CCS2 vehicle
This is the most critical technical function—the adapter acts as a real-time protocol bridge
Step 3: Parameter Mapping & Negotiation
The adapter maps GB/T charging parameters (voltage, current limits) to CCS2-compatible values
It facilitates the handshake between the GB/T charger and the CCS2 vehicle’s BMS
The vehicle’s BMS communicates its requirements through the translated protocol
Step 4: Power Delivery
Once the handshake is successful, the adapter passes DC power from the GB/T charger to the CCS2 vehicle
The adapter monitors the session and ensures safe operation
Charging status displays on both the charger screen and the vehicle dashboard
Step 5: Session Termination
End the session from the charger interface
Wait for the charger to de-energize before disconnecting
4. Comparison Table: GB/T vs. CCS2
Feature GB/T (China) CCS2 (Europe/International)
Connector Type GB/T DC (7-pin) CCS2 Combo (Type 2 + DC pins)
Communication Protocol CAN bus (GB/T 27930) PLC (ISO 15118/DIN 70121)
Data Rate 250 kbit/s Up to 10 Mbps (PLC)
Authentication RFID/APP based ISO 15118 Plug & Charge supported
V2G Support Limited ISO 15118-20 supports bidirectional
Max Voltage Up to 1000V Up to 1000V
Max Current Up to 600A (liquid-cooled) Up to 500A+
Primary Regions Mainland China Europe, Middle East, Australia, India
Standard Documents GB/T 18487, GB/T 20234, GB/T 27930 IEC 61851, ISO 15118, DIN 70121
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I simply use a mechanical plug adapter to convert GB/T to CCS2?
A: No. A mechanical adapter only solves the physical connection issue. You also need protocol translation because GB/T uses CAN bus communication while CCS2 uses PLC. A smart converter device is required.
Q2: What is the maximum power rating for GB/T to CCS2 adapters?
A: Most adapters are rated between 200kW and 250kW. However, many adapters limit power output (e.g., 60-120 kW) even if the charger supports higher power, due to cooling and safety differences.
Q3: Are GB/T to CCS2 adapters bidirectional?
A: Most adapters are unidirectional. A GB/T → CCS2 adapter (for charging CCS2 vehicles at GB/T stations) is less common than the reverse direction. Always verify the adapter’s direction before purchasing.
Q4: Is a GB/T to CCS2 adapter safe to use?
A: Quality matters significantly. Low-cost adapters may overheat or fail during handshake. Look for adapters with:
Built-in thermostats to prevent overheating
Self-locking latches to prevent disconnection during charging
IP65 or higher ingress protection
Firmware update capability via USB port
Q5: Which vehicle models can use a GB/T to CCS2 adapter?
A: Any EV with a CCS2 inlet can use this adapter. This includes European-market vehicles from Tesla (EU imports), Porsche, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Audi, Hyundai, Kia, and others.
Q6: What happens if the adapter’s firmware is outdated?
A: Protocol compatibility issues may arise after vehicle software updates. Choose adapters with firmware update capability (e.g., micro USB port) and lifetime software support.
Q7: Can ultra-fast liquid-cooled GB/T chargers (600A+) work with CCS2 adapters?
A: Typically no. Ultra-fast liquid-cooled GB/T guns (600A+) generally cannot be adapted to CCS2 due to cooling system and safety differences.
6. Product Architecture Diagram
text
┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ GB/T → CCS2 CONVERSION ADAPTER │
│ SYSTEM ARCHITECTURE │
├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ │
│ ┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐ │
│ │ PHYSICAL INTERFACE │ │
│ │ ┌──────────────────────┐ ┌──────────────────────────┐ │ │
│ │ │ GB/T Input Side │ │ CCS2 Output Side │ │ │
│ │ │ (Connects to │──────────│ (Connects to Vehicle) │ │ │
│ │ │ GB/T Charger) │ │ │ │ │
│ │ └──────────────────────┘ └──────────────────────────┘ │ │
│ └─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘ │
│ │ │
│ ▼ │
│ ┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐ │
│ │ PROTOCOL TRANSLATION ENGINE │ │
│ │ ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐ │ │
│ │ │ CAN Bus Receiver (GB/T 27930) ──▶ Protocol Bridge ──▶ PLC │ │ │
│ │ │ • Reads GB/T signaling │ │ • Generates ISO 15118 │ │ │
│ │ │ • Decodes CAN messages │ │ • DIN 70121 support │ │ │
│ │ │ • 250 kbit/s data rate[reference:35]│ │ • PLC over CP pin[reference:36]│ │ │
│ │ └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘ │ │
│ └─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘ │
│ │ │
│ ▼ │
│ ┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐ │
│ │ POWER DELIVERY & SAFETY │ │
│ │ ┌──────────────┐ ┌──────────────┐ ┌──────────────┐ │ │
│ │ │ DC Power │ │ Thermal │ │ Self-Lock │ │ │
│ │ │ Pass-Through│──│ Management │──│ Latch │ │ │
│ │ │ (200-250kW) │ │ (Thermostat)│ │ Protection │ │ │
│ │ └──────────────┘ └──────────────┘ └──────────────┘ │ │
│ └─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘ │
│ │
│ ┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐ │
│ │ FIRMWARE & DIAGNOSTICS │ │
│ │ ┌──────────────┐ ┌──────────────┐ │ │
│ │ │ Micro USB │ │ LED Status │ │ │
│ │ │ (Firmware │ │ Indicators │ │ │
│ │ │ Updates) │ │ │ │ │
│ │ └──────────────┘ └──────────────┘ │ │
│ └─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘ │
│ │
└─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
7. Standards & Protocols
Standard Description Role in Conversion
GB/T 27930 Chinese communication protocol for EV charging Defines CAN bus messages from charger
GB/T 20234 Chinese connector standard Defines physical GB/T connector interface
ISO 15118 International EV-EVSE communication standard Defines PLC communication expected by CCS2 vehicle
DIN 70121 German DC charging communication standard Alternative PLC protocol for CCS2
IEC 61851 General EV charging requirements Safety and basic signaling
8. Share Charging: Our Real-World Project Capabilities
Share Charging (Shanghai Xier Zhichong) is a leading provider of EV communication solutions, specializing in EVCC (Electric Vehicle Communication Controller) and SECC (Supply Equipment Communication Controller) technologies.
🔹 Core Technical Capabilities
Capability Description
Protocol Expertise Full implementation of ISO 15118, DIN 70121, and PLC communication
EVCC Solutions Monitors CCS EV battery capacity, controls charging power and time, records data for analysis
SECC Solutions ISO 15118-20 compliant SECC for European and American standard charging stations
V2G Protocol Stack Complete V2G protocol stack with HomePlug Green PHY 1.1 compliant PLC
Protocol Conversion Expertise in bridging different charging standards and communication protocols
🔹 Standards & Compliance
ISO 15118-2 and ISO 15118-20 compliant
DIN 70121 compliant for European DC charging
HomePlug Green PHY 1.1 PLC standard
Full V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid) protocol stack support
🔹 Real-World Deployments
Share Charging’s protocol conversion technology is deployed in:
Charging station communication controllers enabling cross-standard interoperability
EVCC modules for vehicle-side communication management
SECC modules for charging station-side communication
Cross-border EV charging solutions for vehicles operating across different charging standards
🔹 Why Choose Share Charging for Standard Conversion?
Deep Protocol Expertise: Proven track record in ISO 15118, DIN 70121, and PLC communication
V2G Ready: Full ISO 15118-20 support for future bidirectional charging
End-to-End Solutions: From EVCC to SECC, complete communication ecosystem
Global Compatibility: Solutions for European, American, and Chinese standards
Future-Proof: Continuous investment in next-generation communication protocols
