Which EV Charging Cable Do I Need?

Which EV Charging Cable Do I Need?

Which EV Charging Cable Do I Need? 

If you’ve recently bought an electric vehicle or are planning to, one of the most common questions you'll ask is: which charging cable do I need for my EV?

With different connector types, charging speeds and cable lengths available, choosing the right cable can feel confusing. The good news is that once you understand the basics, it’s actually quite simple.

This EV charging cable guide explains everything you need to know, including the difference between cable types, charging speeds, compatibility with your vehicle and how to choose the right cable length for everyday charging.

Understanding EV Charging Cables

An EV charging cable connects your electric vehicle to a charging point, allowing electricity to flow safely between the charger and your car.

In the UK and across most of Europe, untethered public charging points require you to bring your own cable, which is why many EV drivers carry one in their vehicle.

To choose the right cable, there are four key things to consider:

  • Connector type (Type 1 or Type 2).

  • Charging speed (16A or 32A).

  • Cable length.

  • Vehicle compatibility.

Let’s break each of these down.

Type 1 vs Type 2 Charging Cables

One of the first things you need to determine is which connector your EV uses.

Type 1 Charging Cables

Type 1 connectors were commonly used on older electric vehicles, particularly early models from Japanese and American manufacturers.

Features of Type 1 cables:

  • Single-phase charging.

  • Maximum charging power typically around 3.6kW–7.4kW.

  • Five-pin connector design.

  • Locking mechanism usually on the vehicle side.

Examples of vehicles that may use Type 1:

  • Older Nissan Leaf models.

  • Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (older versions).

  • Early Kia Soul EV.

However, Type 1 connectors are becoming less common in the UK.

Type 2 Charging Cables

Most modern electric vehicles use Type 2 connectors, which have become the UK and European standard for AC charging.

Benefits of Type 2 cables:

  • Compatible with the majority of EVs in the UK and Europe.

  • Supports faster charging speeds.

  • Seven-pin connector.

  • Works with most public chargers.

Examples of EVs that use Type 2:

  • Tesla Model 3 and Model Y.

  • Hyundai Kona Electric.

  • Kia EV6.

  • Volkswagen ID.3 and ID.4.

  • BMW i4.

  • MG4.

If your vehicle is newer, there’s a very good chance that you'll need a Type 2 EV charging cable.

16A vs 32A Charging Cables

Another important factor when choosing a charging cable is amperage, which determines how much power the cable can handle.

16A Charging Cables

16A single phase cables support slower AC charging speeds.

Features of 16A single phase cables:

  • Up to 3.6kW charging.

  • Suitable for smaller battery vehicles.

  • Often cheaper.

  • Less common for new EV setups.

These cables may still be used in some situations, but most modern EV drivers prefer faster charging options.

32A Charging Cables

A 32A single phase EV charging cable supports faster AC charging and is now the most common option for home and public charging.

Features of 32A single phase cables:

  • Up to 7.4kW charging.

  • Faster home charging

  • Compatible with most public AC chargers.

Even if your charger currently runs at a lower output, choosing a 32A cable ensures you’ll be ready for faster chargers later.

For most EV owners, a Type 2 32A cable is the best choice.

Choosing the Right Cable Length

Cable length is one of the most overlooked factors when buying an EV charging cable.

Many drivers only realise the importance of cable length once they try to use a public charger and discover their cable doesn’t quite reach.

The most common cable lengths are: 5 metres, 7 metres, 10 metres, and 15 metres. However, it is possible to find cables at 20 metres and longer. 

5m Cables - Best for:

  • Home charging.

  • Chargers located very close to your vehicle.

  • Minimal cable storage.

7m Cables - Best for:

  • Extra charging flexibility.

  • Chargers located closer to your vehicle.

  • Slightly larger driveways.

10m or 15m Cables - Best for:

  • Large driveways and awkward parking positions.

  • Vehicles located far away from the charger.

  • Maximum flexibility.

Many EV drivers prefer longer EV charging cables because they make charging far easier in real-world situations.

EV Cable Compatibility: Which Cable Does Your Car Need?

If you’re still asking 'what charging cable do I need?' The easiest way to check is by looking at your vehicle’s charging port.

Here’s a quick compatibility guide for common EVs in the UK.

Vehicle Charging Cable
Tesla Model 3 Type 2
Tesla Model Y Type 2
Hyundai Kona Electric Type 2
Kia EV6 Type 2
BMW i4 Type 2
Volkswagen ID.3 / ID.4 Type 2
MG4 Type 2
Older Nissan Leaf Type 1

If you're still unsure, you can always check using our Vehicle Reg Checker Tool.

When Do You Need to Bring Your Own Cable?

Many EV owners wonder whether they actually need their own cable.

You will typically need a cable when using:

  • Untethered public charging stations.

  • Some workplace chargers.

  • Certain destination chargers (hotels, car parks, etc).

Rapid chargers usually have built-in cables, but slower AC chargers often require you to bring your own.

This is why many EV drivers keep a cable in their car at all times.

Choosing the Right Charging Cable

Choosing the right EV charging cable doesn’t need to be complicated.

Once you understand the basics: connector type, charging speed, cable length and compatibility, selecting the right cable becomes straightforward.

For most EV drivers in the UK, the best choice will be a Type 2 32A cable with enough length to comfortably reach public chargers.

Investing in the right cable makes charging easier, more convenient and far less stressful when you're out on the road.

Enjoyed reading this guide? Discover more on the EVwired Blog. 

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