Electric Vehicle (EV) charging cables are essential if you own an electric car. EV cables are integral components of the EV charging infrastructure. They connect your EV to the charging station and provide electricity to recharge the vehicle's battery.

EV cables are available in various current and voltage ratings, cable lengths, and connector combinations. In both single-phase and three-phase configurations. You can find out more in our EV charging guide.

What are EV Charging Cables Used for?

EV charging cables charge electric vehicles by connecting them to a charging station or wall box. They are also used for emergency charging from a standard outlet when no charging station is nearby. EV cables allow you to charge at public charging stations, charge at work, or on-the-go charging.

Types of EV Charging Cables

Type 1 Cables

Type 1 charging cables are widely used in Japan and North America. Type 1 cables are terminated with a 5-pin SAE J1772 connector that plugs into the EV's inlet port.

Type 2 Cables

Type 2 charging cables are used throughout Europe and the UK. Type 2 charging cables are terminated with a 7-pin IEC 62196 (Mennekes) connector that plugs into the EV's inlet port.

CCS1 and CCS2 Cables

Combined Charging System (CCS) cables support both AC and DC charging. Developed in Europe by the German automotive industry, CCS2 cables consist of a type 2 connector with two additional DC pins. CCS1 cables are commonly used in North America, while CCS2 cables are common in the UK and Europe.

CHAdeMO Cables

CHAdeMO cables are quick charging cables that support DC charging only. Cables are terminated with a unique connector on both ends. They are mostly used in Japan and are rated at up to 62.5 kW charging speed.

Charging Modes

A charging mode is a method through which you charge your electric car. There are four modes Mode 1, Mode 2, Mode 3, and Mode 4.

Mode 1

The simplest charging mode is Mode 1. It allows the car to be immediately linked to a conventional three-pin socket. Mode 1 is often reserved for vehicles with extremely low power demands, such as scooters or mopeds

Mode 2

Mode 2 Charging is similar to mode 1. Mode 2 still permits direct connection to a regular 3-pin socket, but it now has an integrated protective device that monitors temperature and power use.

Mode 3

Unlike Mode 1 and Mode 2, Mode 3 does not utilize a cable with a 3-pin connector. This charging technique employs a fixed wall box holding the protection device and a specific socket or permanently attached cable.

Mode 4

Mode 4 operates on direct current (DC) rather than alternating current (AC). Mode 4 is a permanent charging point with its integrated circuit and control circuitry. The charging station converts AC electricity to DC current, transferring the power straight to the battery. The wire is constantly attached or 'tethered' to the charger because of the high current and voltages.