You’re halfway through your daily commute when your scooter’s battery icon starts flashing red. Your heart sinks. In the old days, this meant hours of waiting for a slow trickle charge—if you could even find a charger that fit your plug.
Here’s a stat that’ll grab you: 90% of India’s new electric scooters entering the market in 2025 now use the same charging standard. That game-changing connector? It’s called Type 6, and it’s about to make your charging anxiety disappear.
Keynote: Type 6 Connector EV
Type 6 connector (IEC 62196-6) revolutionizes India’s electric two-wheeler charging with standardized 12kW DC fast charging. Adopted by Ola, Ultraviolette, and Simple Energy, it delivers 40-120 km range in 15 minutes across 1,700+ cities, eliminating range anxiety through Bharat Charge Alliance infrastructure.
The Charging Puzzle That’s Finally Getting Solved
Why Your Electric Scooter Deserves a Better Plug
You’ve felt the frustration: finding a charger that won’t fit your scooter, or waiting hours for a trickle of power. India’s EV boom created connector chaos—every brand had its own “secret handshake.” Type 6 is the answer: one standardized DC plug that’s making fast charging simple for two-wheelers and three-wheelers.
What You’ll Discover Here
The real story behind this game-changing connector. How it cuts your charging anxiety and gets you back on the road. Everything you need to make smart choices about your electric ride.
What Exactly Is a Type 6 Connector?
The Simple Truth in Plain English
Think of it as India’s special DC fast-charging plug designed specifically for light electric vehicles. Official name: IEC 62196-6 (or IS 17017-2-6 in India)—but you’ll just call it Type 6. It sends power straight to your battery, no conversion needed, for lightning-quick top-ups.
The technical folks call it a “low-voltage Direct Current interface for Light Electric Vehicles.” You and I? We call it freedom from range anxiety.
Why “Type 6” Matters to Your Daily Ride
It’s built for scooters, motorcycles, and three-wheelers—not big cars. Handles up to 120V DC and around 100-125 amps continuous power. This translates to roughly 12kW of charging speed. Cuts typical charging from hours to under an hour for most e-scooters.
Quick Stats Box:
- Voltage: Up to 120V DC
- Current: 100-125 amps
- Power delivery: ~12kW
- Range addition: 40-120 km in 15 minutes
- Pin count: 7 (2 power, 5 signal)
The Messy Problem Type 6 Actually Solves
The Connector Chaos You’ve Been Living With
Every manufacturer used to create their own plug—Ola couldn’t charge at Ather, and vice versa. You’d find a charging station, only to discover your plug doesn’t fit. Range anxiety doubled when you couldn’t trust the infrastructure.
I know the frustration of planning routes around specific brand chargers. Statistics show 68% of Indian EV riders felt this pinch before standardization efforts began.
How Type 6 Changes Your World
“Imagine zipping off in minutes, not hours”
The Bharat Charge Alliance and major brands are finally agreeing on one standard. Over 1,700 cities across India now host Type 6 charging points. One reliable plug means less stress, more freedom to roam.
Ready to see how simple tweaks can save you real money and time?
Which Electric Vehicles Actually Use Type 6?
The Big Names Leading the Charge
Type 6 Vehicle Compatibility:
| Vehicle Model | Manufacturer | Type 6 Support | Max DC Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| S1 Pro | Ola Electric | Yes | 12kW |
| F77 | Ultraviolette | Yes | 10kW |
| Kratos R | Tork Motors | Yes | 8kW |
| Simple One | Simple Energy | Yes | 7kW |
| Various 3-wheelers | Altigreen, ETO Motors | Yes | 5-12kW |
Three-wheelers from Altigreen and ETO Motors are joining the movement. Battery pack supplier Clean Electric has also standardized on Type 6 across their product line.
How to Know If Your Ride Is Type 6-Ready
Check your scooter’s charging port for the distinctive 7-pin connector shape. Look in your manual under “DC fast charging specifications” or “IEC 62196-6 compatibility.” Ask your dealer about Bharat Charge Alliance compatibility before you buy.
Most new Indian electric two-wheelers launched after mid-2024 include Type 6 as standard. If you’re buying used, this becomes a crucial checking point.
Type 6 vs. Everyone Else: The Connector Face-Off
Type 6 vs. Type 7: Your India-Specific Choice
Comparison Table:
| Feature | Type 6 (IEC 62196-6) | Type 7 (IS 17017) |
|---|---|---|
| Charging type | DC-only | Combined AC/DC |
| Pin count | 7 | 9 |
| Max DC power | 12kW | 12kW |
| AC charging | No | Yes (7.7kW) |
| Latch location | Charger side | Vehicle side |
| Key supporters | Ola, Ultraviolette | Ather, Hero MotoCorp |
Type 6: DC-only fast charging, Bharat Charge Alliance standard, latch on charger side. Type 7: Hybrid AC/DC combo, Ather-backed, latch on vehicle side, up to 100A. Both work brilliantly—just charge at different stations (for now).
Type 6 vs. The Car World: CCS, CHAdeMO, NACS
Power & Use Case Comparison:
| Standard | Voltage | Power | Vehicle Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type 6 | 120V DC | 12kW | Scooters, 3-wheelers |
| CCS | 400-1000V DC | 350kW+ | Cars, trucks |
| CHAdeMO | 400V+ DC | 400kW | Cars (mostly Japanese) |
| NACS | 400V+ DC | 250kW+ | Cars (Tesla/North America) |
Car plugs handle high-voltage heavy lifting (400V+); Type 6 stays low-voltage (120V) for safety. Lighter cables, simpler hardware, faster station rollouts for scooters. Different jobs, different tools—stick with what fits your vehicle type.
The Technical Stuff You Actually Need to Know
Power and Speed in Real Life
Charging Scenarios:
- Coffee stop (15 min): 40-60 km range added
- Lunch break (30 min): 80-120 km range added
- Full charge: 3-6 hours (varies by battery size)
- Fast charge to 80%: 45-90 minutes
Rated envelope: up to 120V DC and 100-125A continuous current. Translation: full charge in 3-6 hours; fast chargers hit 80% in about an hour. Perfect for coffee-stop top-ups or quick errands around the city.
Why the Voltage Stays “Low” on Purpose
Smaller battery packs in scooters don’t need car-level voltage. Lower voltage equals safer for urban stop-and-go, easier maintenance. Designed for daily city routes, not highway marathons.
The 120V limit keeps costs down while delivering plenty of power for LEV batteries that typically range from 2-5 kWh capacity.
Finding and Using Type 6 Charging Stations
Where These Stations Actually Live
Ola’s network spans 1,700+ cities with shopping malls and offices adding them steadily. Use apps like PlugShare, Bolt.Earth, or manufacturer-specific apps to locate nearby Type 6 spots. Expect rapid expansion as standardization takes hold.
Major charging networks deploying Type 6 include Bolt.Earth with their Blaze DC dual-gun chargers that support both Type 6 and Type 7 for maximum compatibility.
Your First Time at a Type 6 Station: A Step-by-Step Walk-Through
Park, power off completely, open your charging port cover. Plug in firmly—you’ll hear a satisfying click and see a green confirmation light. Watch the screen for charging progress; most stations show real-time updates. When done, unplug gently and replace the port cap.
The communication happens automatically through the Control Pilot (CP) handshake and CAN bus protocols. Your scooter talks to the charger to ensure safe power delivery.
What It Actually Costs You
Pricing Breakdown:
| Charging Type | Cost Range | Full Battery Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Home charging | ₹6-8/unit | ₹25-35 |
| Public AC | ₹8-12/unit | ₹35-50 |
| Public DC fast | ₹12-18/unit | ₹50-100 |
| Premium locations | ₹15-25/unit | ₹75-150 |
Home charging: ₹25-30 for a full battery (way cheaper than petrol). Public fast chargers: ₹50-100 depending on location and speed. Your wallet—and the planet—will thank you.
Compatibility, Safety, and Smart Tricks
Can You Mix and Match? The Adapter Question
Direct Type 6 vehicle to Type 6 charger: plug and play, no adapters needed. Cross-standard adapters (Type 6 to CCS): limited, often unsafe—avoid them. Stick to certified hardware only; poor adapters can overheat and damage your battery.
The 7-pin configuration ensures only compatible chargers can connect. This prevents dangerous mismatches that could fry your expensive battery pack.
Built-In Safety You Can Trust
Designed for 10,000 mating cycles with robust latching and weather seals. Automatic shutoff if connection isn’t perfect—preventing shocks and mishaps. Drain holes and thermal limits protect against rain, dust, and overheating.
The IEC 62196-6 standard mandates multiple safety features including ground fault protection and temperature monitoring.
Simple Care Checklist for Your Connector
Keep the port cap closed when not charging to prevent dust buildup. Wipe contacts monthly for that always-ready connection. Never force the plug—if it doesn’t slide smoothly, inspect for debris.
Check for corrosion every few months, especially during monsoon season. Clean contacts with electronics cleaner if needed.
The Standards Behind Type 6 (Without the Jargon)
What IEC 62196-6 and IS 17017 Really Mean
“Standards give us confidence that any Type 6 charger will work safely with any Type 6 vehicle” – Bharat Charge Alliance representative
IEC 62196-6: international rules for dimensions and interchangeability. IS 17017 series: India’s Bureau of Standards formalizing Type 6 for national adoption. IEC 61851-25: the language chargers and vehicles use to talk safely.
These aren’t just paper exercises. They ensure your ₹1.5 lakh scooter won’t get damaged by a poorly designed charger.
Why Standards Save Your Sanity
You don’t need a PhD—just confidence that any Type 6 charger will work with your scooter. Backend communication protocols ensure your battery charges safely every time. Less guesswork, more “just plug in and go.”
The Control Pilot handshake and CAN bus communication happen automatically, checking voltage, current limits, and battery temperature before power flows.
What’s Coming Next for Type 6 and India’s EV Future
The Government Push You Should Know About
Type 6 Roadmap:
| Timeline | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2024 | BIS formally recognizes Type 6 |
| 2025 | ARAI testing facilities operational |
| 2026 | Predicted market dominance for LEVs |
| 2027 | Possible universal compatibility mandates |
Bureau of Indian Standards officially recognizing Type 6. ARAI building testing facilities for connector certification. Expect mandates requiring universal compatibility within 2-3 years.
The Bright Road Ahead
Industry experts predict Type 6 will dominate India’s light EV market by 2026. Fleet depots, swap-ready bays, and fintech payment flows making charging seamless. Smart features coming: reserve charging slots via app, vehicle-to-grid tech, digital payments.
The 2030 EV adoption targets look increasingly achievable with standardized charging removing a major barrier.
Near-Term Gaps We’re Still Fixing
Station density in rural areas needs improvement. Repair logistics and spare parts supply chains maturing. Backend software compatibility between brands still being ironed out.
But the momentum is strong. Every month brings more stations, more compatible vehicles, and better user experiences.
Making Your Type 6 Decision: A Friendly Checklist
Before You Buy or Upgrade
Check your vehicle: Confirm Type 6 inlet, max DC amps, warranty coverage. Map your routes: Daily km, likely charging stops, availability along your path. Assess your home setup: Power availability, parking access, cable reach.
Think honestly about your usage patterns. A Type 6 scooter makes most sense if you do regular intercity trips or don’t have reliable home charging.
Weighing Type 6 vs. Type 7 vs. Proprietary
Decision Table:
| Factor | Type 6 | Type 7 | Proprietary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infrastructure growth | Strong | Growing | Limited |
| Future-proofing | High | High | Poor |
| Charging flexibility | DC only | AC + DC | Brand-locked |
| Network access | BCA members | Ather/Hero | Single brand |
Type 6: growing infrastructure, Bharat Charge Alliance backing, future-proof. Type 7: established Ather/Hero network, hybrid AC/DC flexibility. Proprietary: locks you into one brand’s ecosystem—avoid if possible.
Your Personal Reality Check
Calculate your honest daily commute distance. Do you have home parking with reliable power access? Think about long trips—highway charging is still spotty.
If you mostly ride within the city and have home charging, either Type 6 or Type 7 will work fine. For highway touring, check route coverage first.
Quick Wins: Everyday Tips to Love Your Type 6 Setup
Maximize Your Charging Joy
Pair with station-finder apps to turn charging into a breeze. Charge during off-peak hours at home to save even more money. Join local EV rider groups to share tips on best charging spots.
Many riders report that Type 6 fast charging has completely eliminated their range anxiety. The key is knowing where stations are and planning just one extra stop per long trip.
When Things Go Sideways
Always carry your home charger as backup (slow but reliable). If a public charger won’t connect, try rebooting both your scooter and the station. Report broken or incompatible stations in your app to help the community.
Most connection issues resolve with a simple unplug and reconnect. The communication protocols need a clean handshake to start safely.
Conclusion: Your Charging Future Feels Brighter
If you ride a scooter or three-wheeler, Type 6 simplifies your life with fast, reliable top-ups. For car owners, stick with CCS—different tools for different jobs. You and I both want less confusion, more plugs that “just work.”
The beauty of Type 6 lies in its simplicity. One connector, growing network, and the confidence that your next charge is never far away.
Let’s Charge Toward Tomorrow Together
Standardization means freedom—explore farther, worry less, enjoy the ride. Share your Type 6 stories: what’s working, what needs fixing. The electric revolution isn’t just for big cars; it’s for every kind of vehicle on the road.
Type 6 EV Charger (FAQs)
What is Type 6 EV connector used in India?
Type 6 (IEC 62196-6) is a DC fast-charging connector designed specifically for India’s electric two-wheelers and three-wheelers. It delivers up to 12kW of power directly to your battery, adding 40-120 km of range in just 15 minutes.
Which electric scooters are compatible with Type 6 charging?
Major models include Ola S1 Pro, Ultraviolette F77, Tork Kratos R, and Simple Energy Simple One. Most new Indian electric scooters launched after mid-2024 include Type 6 as standard equipment.
What is the difference between Type 6 and Type 7 EV connectors?
Type 6 is DC-only with 7 pins, while Type 7 combines AC and DC charging in 9 pins. Type 6 has the charger-side latch and is backed by the Bharat Charge Alliance. Type 7 has vehicle-side latching and is promoted by Ather Energy and Hero MotoCorp.
How fast can you charge with Type 6 DC fast charger?
Type 6 delivers 3-12kW charging power, adding 40-120 km range in 15 minutes depending on your scooter’s battery size. A typical coffee break gives you enough juice for most daily commutes.
Is Type 6 the same as CCS or NACS?
No—Type 6 operates at 120V DC for light vehicles, while CCS and NACS use 400V+ for cars. They’re designed for completely different vehicle classes and aren’t interchangeable.
Can I use my home outlet with Type 6?
Type 6 is DC-only, so you need a proper DC charger. Most Type 6 vehicles also accept AC charging through a separate port for home use with standard outlets.