The Simple Guide to EV Charging Cables for Electric Vehicles
If you’re new to electric vehicles, you would be forgiven for scratching your head wondering about the difference between type 1 EV cables, type 2 EV cables, 16A vs 32A cables, Rapid chargers, Fast chargers, mode 3 charging cables and the list goes on and on…
In this guide we will cut to the chase and give you the essentials that you need to know, NOT an in-depth university lecture on electrics, but a reader friendly guide on what you need to know in the REAL world!
TYPE 1 EV CHARGING CABLES
Type 1 cables are found mainly in cars from the Asian region. These include Mitsubishi’s, Nissan Leaf (prior to 2018), Toyota Prius (Pre-2017) Kia Soul, Mia, . Other non-asian cars include the Chevrolet, Citroen C-Zer, Ford Focus, Peugeot Galicia and Vauxhall Ampera.
The above is not a complete list, but to be sure, Type 1 cables have “5” holes, while type “2” cables have “7” holes.
Type 2 cables are likely to become universal standard and as such, there are few public charging stations in the UK with Type 1 ports. Therefore, in order to charge your Type 1 vehicle, you require a “Type 1 to Type 2” EV charging cable.
TYPE 2 EV CHARGING CABLES
Type 2 cables look like becoming the industry standard over the next few years. Most European manufacturers such as Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Range Rover Sport, Mercedes, Mini E, Renault Zoe, but also is the Hyundai Ioniq & Kona, Nissan Leaf 2018+ and Toyota Prius 2017+.
Remember, Type 2 EV cables have “7” holes!
16AMP VS 32AMP EV CHARGE CABLES
Generally the higher the Amp’s, the quicker they achieve full charging. A 16 amp charging point will charge an electric car in around 7 hours, while at 32 amps, the charge will take around 3 1/2 hours. Sounds straightforward? Well not all cars are capable of being charged at 32 Amps and it’s the car that decides on the speed.
If the car is configured for 16-amp charging, connecting a 32-amp charge lead and charger will not charge the car any faster!
HOME EV CHARGERS
Now that you know a bit more about EV chargers, we will look at what is needed for your home charging port. You have the option of plugging your car straight into a domestic 16-amp power socket. Although this is possible, it is not generally recommended that you do this without getting the wiring in your property checked.
The most efficient and safer option would be to have a dedicated EV Home Charging point installed. Home and business grants of up to £800 are available to assist in the installation, which bring the installation cost down to between £500 and £1,000. The costs will, however, vary depending on the distance between electric box and the point where the charge point is required.