Electric cars have become an indispensable part of our lives. More and more people are switching to sustainable driving, and with that comes the question: how do I optimally charge my EV? One of the most important parts of the charging process is the charging cable . But with all the different types and specifications, choosing the right charging cable can seem quite complicated. Don't worry! This guide will explain step by step what to look for, so you always choose the perfect charging cable for your electric car.
Step 1: Which plug does your car have? Type 1 or Type 2?
The very first thing you should consider is the type of connection your electric car has. There are two common types of charging connectors:
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Type 1 (J1772): This connector is primarily used by older models of American and Asian brands, such as the Nissan Leaf (older models) or the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. A Type 1 connector can be identified by its five pins and a single locking clip.
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Type 2 (Mennekes): This is the standard for electric cars in Europe and is by far the most common type. Almost all modern EVs, including Tesla, Volkswagen, Volvo, and Mercedes, use a Type 2 connector. This connector has seven pins and a flat top. Public charging stations in Europe are also almost always equipped with a Type 2 connection.
Always check your car's manual or the charging port itself to see which type of plug your EV has. Most charging cables have a Type 2 plug on the charging station side, as this is the European standard for charging stations.
Step 2: Single-phase or three-phase charging? The key to charging speed
Besides the plug type, the number of phases is essential for charging speed. This determines how much power your car can receive simultaneously.
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Single-phase charging: Many older electric cars and plug-in hybrids charge on single phase. This means they can charge at a maximum of 3.7 kW or 7.4 kW. This is often sufficient for a single-phase home connection, but charging takes longer. A single-phase charging cable is suitable if your car only supports single-phase charging or if you primarily want to charge via a standard socket (with a dedicated mobile charger).
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3-phase charging: Most modern electric cars and charging stations support 3-phase charging . This allows for much higher charging speeds, up to 11 kW or even 22 kW at home (provided your home connection allows this). With 3-phase charging, your car will charge significantly faster, which is ideal for larger battery packs or if you frequently need to charge quickly.
How do you know how many phases your car can handle? Check your car's specifications. They often list a maximum AC charging capacity in kW. If it's 11 kW or 22 kW, your car probably supports 3-phase charging. If it's 3.7 kW or 7.4 kW, your car probably supports single-phase charging.
Note: You can also use a 3-phase charging cable if your car only supports 1-phase charging, or if the charging station provides 1-phase power. The cable will then adjust to the lowest capacity. The reverse doesn't work: you can't charge 3-phase with a 1-phase cable if your car and charging station do support 3-phase power. Therefore, preferably choose a 3-phase cable if your car and home connection can handle it, so you're future-proof.
Step 3: Amperage: the current of your charging cable
The amperage (A) of a charging cable indicates the maximum current that can flow through it. This depends on the number of phases and the maximum charging capacity of your car and charging station.
Common amperages for charging cables are:
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16 Ampere (A): Suitable for 1-phase charging up to 3.7 kW (230V x 16A) and 3-phase charging up to 11 kW ( ).
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32 Ampere (A): Suitable for 1-phase charging up to 7.4 kW (230V x 32A) and 3-phase charging up to 22 kW ( ).
Always choose a cable that can handle your car's maximum amperage. For example, if your car supports 32A and your charging station does too, a 32A cable is ideal for taking advantage of the maximum charging speed. If you use a 16A cable on a 32A system, the charging speed will be limited to 16A.
Step 4: Choosing the right length
The length of the charging cable is crucial for practical use. Consider where you'll use the cable most:
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At home: Measure the distance from your charging station to your car's charging port when it's parked. Consider the location of the charging port (front, back, left, or right) and give yourself some extra slack. A cable that's too short is inconvenient, but a cable that's too long can get in the way and wear out faster.
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On the road (public charging stations): This is more difficult to estimate. A 4- or 5-meter cable is often sufficient for public charging, but 7 or 8 meters offer more flexibility, especially if charging stations are occupied or inconveniently located.
Common lengths are 4, 5, 7, and 8 meters. A 5- or 7-meter cable is often a good all-rounder for both home and on the go.
Additional considerations when choosing your charging cable
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Quality and certifications: Always choose a high-quality charging cable from a reliable supplier. Check that the cable meets applicable safety standards and carries the relevant certifications (such as CE). Cheap cables can be less safe and break more quickly.
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Cable storage and maintenance: Think about how you'll store your cables. Many cables come with a handy storage bag to keep them neat and tidy. Always roll up the cable neatly to prevent kinks and store it in a dry place.
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Fixed or detachable cable? Some charging stations (especially at home) have a fixed cable. Public charging stations almost always have a connection point where you plug in your own detachable cable. So make sure you always have a suitable, detachable charging cable with you for when you're on the road.
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Colors and design: While less important for functionality, charging cables are available in different colors. This can be helpful for easily identifying your cable in crowded charging stations.
Frequently asked questions about charging cables
Can I charge a single-phase car with a 3-phase charging cable? Yes, you can! A 3-phase charging cable always works, even if your car or charging station only supports 1 phase. The cable then adapts to the available capacity.
Can I leave my charging cable outside? Charging cables are designed to be weatherproof, but it's best to store your cable after use, especially in extreme weather conditions. This extends its lifespan and prevents unnecessary wear.
What's the difference between a charging cable and a mobile charger? A charging cable connects your car to a charging station (or a specially installed wall socket for charging). A mobile charger (also called a "Granny Charger") is a device that charges your car via a standard electrical socket (type F, Schuko), albeit at a much lower speed (often a maximum of 2.3 kW). Mobile chargers are useful as a backup solution, but not for everyday use.
You can find the right charging cable for your EV at Accu-Machine.nl
Choosing the right charging cable is essential for optimal and efficient charging. By considering your car's plug type, the number of phases, the required amperage, and the desired length, you'll be sure to find the perfect match.
At Accu-Machine.nl, you'll find a wide range of high-quality charging cables for all types of electric cars and charging situations. Whether you're looking for a Type 2 charging cable for 3-phase charging, an extra-long cable for home use, or a specific version, we're happy to help you make the right choice.
View our range of charging cables and discover which cable best suits your electric car!
After reading this guide, do you still have questions about which charging cable is best for your situation? Feel free to contact us; we're happy to help!
