As electric vehicles (EVs) become mainstream, the charging standards that power them are evolving fast. One of the biggest changes we’re witnessing globally is the shift away from the CHAdeMO fast charging standard in favor of CCS2 (Combined Charging System Type 2). For thousands of EV owners—especially those with Japanese-made vehicles like the Nissan Leaf or Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV—this raises a crucial question: Is CHAdeMO becoming obsolete? And if so, what can drivers do about it?

In this article, I’ll walk you through the history and future of CHAdeMO, why CCS2 is gaining dominance, and what that means for drivers like you. Whether you’re planning a long-distance trip or simply want to avoid being stuck in front of a charger that won’t connect, there is a smart way forward—but more on that later.

1. A Quick Look at CHAdeMO: Past, Present, and Reach

CHAdeMO (short for “CHArge de MOve”) originated in Japan and was the world’s first widely adopted DC fast charging standard. For a time, it was the go-to solution for EVs needing a quick top-up—most notably for the early Nissan Leafs and Mitsubishi Outlanders.

Key stats:

• Over 600,000 Nissan Leafs sold globally, most using CHAdeMO
• Still the primary DC fast charging standard in Japan
• Supported in vehicles like the Nissan e-NV200, Citroën C-Zero, and older Kia Soul EVs

Despite its innovation, CHAdeMO’s architecture is aging. It uses a separate connector for DC charging, while newer standards like CCS2 combine AC and DC into a single port, simplifying infrastructure and design.

2. Why CCS2 is Taking Over

The rise of CCS2 isn’t just a trend—it’s backed by hard data. As of late 2024, over 70% of new public DC fast chargers in Europe are CCS2-exclusive. According to the European Alternative Fuels Observatory (EAFO), the number of CHAdeMO connectors across the EU has dropped by more than 18% since 2021, while CCS2 points have doubled in the same timeframe.

Even in regions like Australia and the Middle East, new highway charging corridors are being built with CCS2 infrastructure, often excluding CHAdeMO altogether.

In Australia, for example, a 2023 report from the Electric Vehicle Council showed that 95% of newly installed public DC chargers were CCS2-only, with just 3% supporting CHAdeMO. Similarly, in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, newly funded fast charging stations under national energy programs are almost entirely CCS2-based.

In Europe, CCS2 is not just popular—it’s mandated. The European Union has adopted it as the official standard for public fast charging. Car manufacturers across the continent have followed suit.

Why CCS2 is winning:

• Standardization: Combines AC and DC charging in one port
• Policy backing: EU legislation requires CCS2 compatibility for new public charging stations
• Faster charging: Higher current capabilities and broader upgrade potential
• Manufacturer support: Automakers like BMW, VW, Audi, Hyundai, and even newer Nissan models (like the Ariya) have moved to CCS2

As a result, CHAdeMO is becoming less visible in new infrastructure. In countries like Germany, France, and the UK, most new DC chargers support CCS2 (and sometimes Tesla/NACS), but not CHAdeMO.

3. What This Means for CHAdeMO EV Owners

If you’re driving a CHAdeMO-equipped vehicle in 2025, you’re probably already noticing:

• Fewer charging options on road trips
• Longer wait times at legacy CHAdeMO stations
• Limited upgrade potential as public and private sectors invest in CCS2

But it’s not all bad news. Your vehicle still works perfectly well, and CHAdeMO is far from extinct. However, the trend is clear: the future belongs to CCS2.

So what’s the smart move for drivers who want to protect their charging freedom?

4. Enter the CCS2 to CHAdeMO Adapter: A Real-World Lifesaver

Rather than waiting for CHAdeMO chargers to disappear entirely, many EV owners are taking action by investing in a CCS2 to CHAdeMO adapter.

What it does:

• Allows CHAdeMO-equipped vehicles to charge at CCS2-only DC fast charging stations
• Acts as a bridge between incompatible plug types and communication protocols
• Unlocks access to newer, more widely available infrastructure

Most adapters work by converting the power and communication signals from CCS2 (which uses PLC protocol) into CHAdeMO (which uses CAN protocol), with the help of an internal battery and smart control board.

Ideal for:

• Long-distance drivers
• EV users in Europe, Australia, or the Middle East
• Fleets with aging Nissan or Mitsubishi vehicles

5. Popular Brands Offering CCS2 to CHAdeMO Adapters

Some of the most reliable brands in this space include:

• Orientrise – Factory-direct, firmware upgradeable, and highly compatible
• Voldt – Based in the EU with strong safety certifications
• A2Z EV – North American supplier with durable build quality

Pricing ranges from $599 to $1,000+, depending on current, voltage support, and features like USB firmware upgrade ports or waterproofing.

Tip: Look for adapters that support at least 200A/1000V and include safety certifications like CE, RoHS, or TUV.

6. Will CHAdeMO Disappear Completely?

Not entirely—at least not yet. Japan still heavily supports the standard, and Nissan is committed to offering CHAdeMO charging options for the domestic market.

But globally, the writing is on the wall:

• New public chargers are CCS2-focused
• New EV models are ditching CHAdeMO entirely
• Adapter solutions are quickly becoming the preferred method of bridging compatibility

Even Nissan’s new EVs like the Ariya are equipped with CCS2 in Europe and the U.S.

7. What You Should Do as a Driver in 2025

If you own a CHAdeMO EV today, here are a few steps to protect your charging future:

1. Map your area: Know how many CHAdeMO stations are still operational near you
2. Consider an adapter: Especially if you plan to travel long distances
3. Stay informed: Watch for updates in EV charging standards in your region
4. Upgrade when ready: Eventually, moving to a CCS2-equipped EV will offer more convenience

Final Thoughts

The future of EV charging is headed toward CCS2 and NACS. CHAdeMO, while still reliable, is slowly being left behind. If you’re still driving a Leaf or an Outlander, the key is preparation—not panic.

Adapters offer an elegant, affordable solution to keep your vehicle compatible with today’s infrastructure. Whether you’re a daily commuter or road-trip adventurer, having one in your trunk could mean the difference between getting home or being stuck waiting.