How to Choose the Right EV Charging Cable for Your EV
YChoosing the right EV charging cable is essential for safe, efficient electric vehicle charging at home or a public charging station. Start by identifying your EV’s plug and charge port, and consider the connector type (Type 1 or Type 2), the cable length (5m or 7m), and the amperage/voltage of your vehicle and the charging station. A Type 2 EV charging cable is common in Australia, especially for 22kW chargers. Ensure the EV cable is compatible with both your EV charger and the EV charging station. Selecting the right EV charging cable helps avoid delays, charging errors, or damage.
Here are six key factors to help you choose the right EV charging cable:
Connector Type
Choosing the right connector type is crucial for ensuring compatibility between your EV and the charging station. The connector you need depends on the type of EV you own, the electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), and whether you’re using AC charging or DC fast charging. Understanding the ins and outs of EV connector types will help you avoid charging issues and ensure a smooth charging experience.
Type 1 Connector
The Type 1 connector is typically found on older Asian-manufactured EVs. It supports single-phase AC charging and is becoming less common in Australia. If your EV uses a Type 1 plug, make sure the charging station or home charger supports this connector. While there are still some public EV charging stations that offer Type 1, most new EV owners will likely use Type 2.
Type 2 Connector
The Type 2 connector is the standard across Australia and Europe. It supports both single-phase and three-phase charging, making it versatile for home and public charging setups. EV drivers with newer models almost always use a Type 2 charging cable or a Type 2 to Type 2 cable. The Type 2 inlet on the vehicle allows for faster charging speeds, especially when paired with a 22kW EV charging station.
CCS/CCS2 (Combined Charging System)
CCS, or Combined Charging System, integrates AC and DC charging in a single plug. CCS2 is the Australian standard and is compatible with Type 2 connectors for AC charging and includes additional DC pins for rapid charging. This connector is used for DC fast charging and offers the fastest charging speeds available. It’s essential for EV owners who frequently use public EV charging stations and want to maximise efficiency.
Cable Length
The cable length you choose affects flexibility, reach, and cable management. The right length depends on your charging setup, whether you’re using a portable EV charger or a wall-mounted home EV charger.
5m Cable
A 5m cable is a practical choice for most home charging setups. It’s long enough to reach from a wall charger to your car’s charge port without excess slack, making cable storage easier. If you usually park close to your charging unit, a 5m Type 2 charging cable should suffice.
7m or Longer
A 7m or longer cable is useful if you have more than one EV, need to reach across a driveway, or want more flexibility with charge points. EV drivers who regularly use public charging stations may also benefit from a longer cable, especially when parked in tight or busy spaces.
Amperage/Voltage
Understanding amperage and voltage ensures you select a cable that supports your vehicle’s maximum charge rate and avoids slow or interrupted charging. The type of EV cable you choose should match the specifications of both your EV and the charging station.
Single-phase: 16 Amps (3.6kW) or 32 Amps (7kW)
Single-phase AC charging is common for home setups. A 16 amp cable delivers up to 3.6kW, while a 32 amp cable can reach 7kW. Most home chargers in Australia operate on single-phase power, making these cables suitable for overnight charging.
Three-phase: 16 Amps (11kW) or 32 Amps (22kW)
Three-phase AC charging supports higher speeds and is ideal for EV owners with access to 22kW charging. A three-phase 32 amp Type 2 cable enables faster charging for compatible vehicles. Always choose a cable that can handle the higher output—either your EV’s limit or the EVSE’s output.
Voltage Drop and Cable Thickness
Longer cables experience voltage drop, which can reduce charging speed. Using a thicker 32 amp cable helps minimise power loss and ensures a stable charging process.
Single-phase vs. Three-phase
Single-phase and three-phase refer to the electrical power source used in the charging setup. Knowing the difference helps you buy the right cable and optimise your EV charging.
Single-phase: 3 Conductors
Single-phase charging uses three conductors (live, neutral, and earth) and is common in residential areas. It supports slower AC charging, typically at 7kW. If you plan to install a home charger, this is likely the system you’ll use.
Three-phase: 5 Conductors
Three-phase setups use five conductors and enable faster charging speeds—up to 22kW. While more common in commercial or industrial settings, some homes also have three-phase access. To fully utilise a 22kW EV charging station, both your vehicle and electrical supply must support three-phase charging.
Compatibility
You can use a three-phase charging unit with a single-phase vehicle or charger, but it will only deliver power at the lower single-phase rate. Always match the cable to the highest supported rate to future-proof your charging setup.
Tethered vs. Untethered Chargers
The type of EV charging cable setup—tethered or untethered—affects daily convenience and long-term flexibility. Your choice depends on how you plan to charge your electric vehicle at home and on the road.
Tethered
A tethered charger has the cable permanently attached to the unit. This is convenient for home use because you don’t have to retrieve or store the cable each time you charge your EV. However, it limits your flexibility if you own different EVs with varying plug types.
Untethered
An untethered charger requires a separate cable, such as a Type 2 to Type 2 cable. This setup is ideal for public charging or households with multiple EVs. It also gives you the freedom to upgrade your cable as EV technology evolves. EV owners who frequently use different types of EVs often prefer untethered systems.
Cable Considerations
Beyond connectors and power ratings, other factors like weight, quality, and storage affect how practical and safe your EV cable is. These considerations help ensure reliable and efficient charging every time.
Length
Select a cable length that comfortably reaches your vehicle inlet from your charging point. Avoid overly long cables to reduce voltage drop and prevent tangling.
Weight and Portability
Heavier cables may offer better durability and current handling but can be cumbersome. Lightweight cables are easier to carry and store, especially if you’re using a portable EV charger.
Quality and Certification
Buy a quality EV cable that meets local safety standards and has proper certifications. Reliable cables ensure safe communication between the vehicle and the charger and support stable charging speeds. Quality cables also resist wear and tear, making them more cost-effective over time.
Cable Management
Proper cable management extends the life of your EV cable. Use storage hooks or cable bags to keep the connector cable organised. Coiled Type 2 to Type 2 cables can help reduce floor clutter and tripping hazards.
Conclusion
By understanding the types of EV charging cables, plug standards, power levels, and installation options, EV drivers can make informed choices for their charging needs. Whether you’re setting up a dedicated EV charging unit at home or navigating public charge points, the right cable is essential for safety, speed, and convenience. Always ensure compatibility with your EV’s charge port and choose a cable that matches your daily driving and charging habits.
At EV Charger Installation, we make it easy to charge your electric vehicle by offering professional EV charger installation services for home EV chargers. We also supply a wide range of EV charging cables, including Type 1, Type 2, and extension options to suit different vehicles and charging setups—ensuring you have the right cable for safe and efficient charging every time.
FAQs
How do I determine the best cable length for my charging needs?
Choose a cable length based on your typical parking situation and distance from the charger to your car. Five meters is a versatile choice, balancing reach and storage ease. Opt for a longer cable if you often park farther from the charger, but remember longer cables are heavier and bulkier.
What are the key differences between high-quality and low-quality EV cables?
High-quality cables use superior materials, offer better durability, remain flexible in cold weather, and have robust connectors with protective caps. Low-quality cables may use cheap copper, have thin insulation prone to breakage, and lack flexibility or brand assurance, leading to safety hazards and poor performance.
Which connector type is compatible with my vehicle and region?
Connector compatibility depends on your vehicle and location: North America uses SAE J1772 (Type 1), Europe uses Type 2 (IEC 62196), China uses GB/T, and Japan uses CHAdeMO. Most new European cars require Type 2; check your car manual or charging port to confirm.
How can I ensure my charging cable meets safety standards like UL or CE?
Look for UL, CE, or CSA markings on the cable or packaging. These certifications indicate rigorous testing for fire resistance, electrical safety, and compliance with regional regulations. Certified cables provide assurance of quality, safety, and legal compliance in your market.
Should I consider the amp and kW ratings when choosing a cable for faster charging?
Yes? The cable’s amp (A) and kW ratings should match or exceed your vehicle’s maximum charging capability. A higher-rated cable (e.g., 32A, 22kW) supports faster charging and future-proofs your setup, but always ensure compatibility with your car and charging station.