What to Look for When Choosing an EV Charging Cable
Selecting the right EV charging cable is essential for ensuring efficient and safe charging at home or on the go. With various options available, it’s necessary to understand the key factors influencing performance and compatibility. Here’s what to consider when choosing an EV charging cable in the UK.
Connector type and compatibility
The first step is ensuring the cable is compatible with your electric vehicle. The choice of connectors at each end of your cable depends on the charger type and the vehicle’s inlet port. The main connector types on the vehicle side are:
Type 1: This connector is found on some older electric cars such as the early Nissan Leaf, but an adaptor is usually included to make it compatible with Type 2
Type 2/CCS: The vast majority of electric cars sold in the UK use this connector type. The Type 2 connector is for slow and fast AC charging whilst the CCS plug is for DC rapid charging.
CHAdeMO: This connector type is used by some EVs such as the Nissan Leaf, but is being phased out on newer models
On the charger side, in the UK, home chargers and fast public chargers have a Type 2 connector.
All public rapid chargers are tethered and will generally come with both CCS and/or CHAdeMO plug so you won’t need to have a separate cable to use these.
Cable length and flexibility
Choosing the right cable length is essential for convenience and ease of use. Key considerations include:
Shorter cables (3-5 metres): ideal for home, off-street charging where the charger is close to the vehicle.
Longer cables (5-10 metres): helpful in reaching charging points in varied parking situations, such as public spaces, shared driveways or cross-pavement charging, such as when using a cross-pavement solution such as Charge Gully.
A flexible, tangle-resistant cable makes handling and storage more manageable, particularly when cables become stiff in colder weather.
Charging speed and power rating
EV charging cables come with different power ratings, which affect how quickly your vehicle charges. The two most common options are:
7kW: standard for home chargers and public chargers.
11kW – 22kW: requires a three-phase supply and is typically used for faster charging at public chargers and commercial locations.
Check the specifications of your home charger and your vehicle’s onboard charger capacity to ensure the cable supports the correct power level.
Standard, durability and weather resistance
Choose a cable that has the appropriate safety standards, such as TUV and UKCA.
Since charging cables are often used outdoors, they must withstand various weather conditions. Look for features such as:
IP rating: an IP54 or higher rating protects against dust and water ingress
Heavy-duty insulation: reinforced cables resist wear and tear from frequent use
Temperature resistance: some cables are designed to remain flexible in extreme temperatures, making them easier to handle year-round
A robust, weather-resistant cable ensures safe and reliable charging in all conditions.
Portability and storage
A portable charging cable is a valuable investment for drivers who frequently charge on the go. Choose a lightweight, easy-to-coil cable that fits neatly in the vehicle’s storage compartment. It should also have protective caps to cover the connectors and prevent dirt and moisture from affecting performance, and one with a storage bag is very convenient.
A spare charging cable in your vehicle ensures you’re always prepared when using public or workplace charging stations.
Choosing the right EV charging cable depends on vehicle compatibility, speed, durability, and convenience. A well-selected cable ensures efficient and hassle-free charging at home or on the move.
