The protocol is identical between the Menikes (SP?) and the J1772 plugs...it's just the physical shape and operation of the plug. Europe was adamant about requiring a shutter in the plug to block off the line voltage from being 'touched', whereas the J1772 mechanics rely on the (same) interlock system to prevent there being acv on the pins until the plug is actually inserted and the logic is connected and says it's safe. IMHO, the Euro spec has an unnecessary complication to it, and increases the cost of the plug. In some locales, they also support 3-phase charging, which the US implementation of the i3's socket does not.