When selecting a charging cable for your electric car, you’re often presented with technical terms that may feel overwhelming. What does Type 2 mean? And what is a phase? Let’s break it down.
You’ll find a variety of charging cables for your car. The most common options include:
The answer is often on your car’s charging socket. In this guide, we’ll explain what “phase,” “type,” and “32A” mean, helping you make the right choice. Read on for the details or skip to the section you’re interested in. This article takes about 3 minutes to read.
Charging cables typically range from 4 metres to 7.5 metres. The 7.5-metre cable works well in most cases, whether your car’s socket is located at the front, back, or side, and regardless of how you prefer to park.
Type 1 and Type 2 refer to different types of connectors:
To determine the type your car needs, check your car’s charging port. If your car has a Type 1 connector, you’ll need a cable with Type 1 on one end and Type 2 on the other.
The term 32A refers to the amperage of the fuse, determining how much power can be delivered before the fuse trips. Think of it as your car’s horsepower:
Keep in mind, 32A cables are slightly heavier and thicker than lower amperage cables but deliver better performance.
The power grid operates in three phases, like a three-lane motorway.
A 3-phase cable supports up to 22 kW, compared to 7.2 kW for 1-phase charging. Check if your car supports 3-phase charging to maximize efficiency.
Not necessarily, but having two cables can be practical:
Yes, quality matters. High-quality cables are durable and withstand frequent use. They are made from robust materials designed for longevity.
In contrast, low-quality cables are prone to faults, wear, and damage due to inferior materials.
EV charging involves transferring large amounts of electricity over extended periods. To prevent overheating: