A zero-insertion force socket connector that mates with a standard pin connector with zero insertion force. An actuation mechanism built into the socket connector, actuated after mating creates a level of contact force necessary to establish good electrical contact. The socket actuation is designed such that the socket contact does not exert any compression force on its mating pin contact during mating. This helps eliminate potential buckling of slender contact pins when large contact force is required. The socket design works with a standard pin contact such as the one, on every electric vehicle. Thus, the invention allows connecting to an existing electric vehicle without any modification, with zero insertion force, yet delivers the necessary contact force and preserves the long-term integrity of the connector pins by eliminating potential pin buckling during mating.