Type 2 Charging Cables: How to Choose the Right Solution

Choosing an electric car is the first step, but it raises a new question: what's the most efficient and secure way to charge your vehicle at home and on the go? The range of charging solutions is vast, from simple cables to intelligent charging stations. This article serves as a guide, introducing various options to help you select the right equipment for your vehicle and living situation.

What to Consider When Choosing a Charging Solution

To make an informed decision, there are several technical aspects to consider. The following points will help you identify the right charging infrastructure for your needs.

Charging Power: 11 kW or 22 kW?

Charging power, measured in kilowatts (kW), determines how quickly your vehicle's battery charges. The most common power levels for home charging are 11 kW and 22 kW.

• 11 kW: An 11kW wallbox is the standard solution for most private households. It's powerful enough to fully charge a typical EV overnight and often has a simpler installation process, requiring registration but not a full permit in many regions.
• 22 kW: A 22kW charging cable or a corresponding wallbox offers double the charging power. However, your vehicle must have a compatible on-board charger (OBC) to use this speed, and the installation often requires approval from your grid operator. A 22 kW cable can be used with an 11 kW station without issue, but the charging speed will be limited to 11 kW.

The determining factor is always the weakest link in the chain: the vehicle, the charging station, and your home's electrical connection.

Stationary vs. Mobile Charging Solutions

The choice between a permanently installed and a portable solution depends on your usage patterns and living situation.

• Home Charging Station (Wallbox): A wall-mounted wallbox offers maximum convenience and safety for daily charging. It is permanently connected to your home's electrical system and is always ready for use.
• Mobile Wallbox: A portable 11kW charging cable, often called a mobile wallbox, provides maximum flexibility. It isn't permanently installed; instead, it plugs into a high-power socket (e.g., a CEE socket). This makes it ideal for renters, second-home owners, or for use while travelling.

Safety Standards and Certifications

A Mode 3 charging cable is the European standard for charging at AC charging stations. It enables communication between the vehicle and the charging point to ensure a safe charging process. Look for certifications like T?V or CE, which confirm compliance with European safety standards. A high IP rating (e.g., IP54 or higher) ensures the device is protected against dust and splashing water, making it suitable for outdoor use.

Top Charging Solutions to Consider

Based on functionality, safety features, and use cases, we have curated a selection of different charging solutions.

GONEO Type 2 EV Charging Cable 22kW

Why it stands out This product is a dedicated EV charging cable that connects your vehicle to a public charging station or a wallbox with a Type 2 socket. Its key features are durability and certified safety.

Advantages

• High Compatibility: Suitable for all electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids with a Type 2 or CCS2 port.
• Certified Safety: Safety-certified by T?V Rheinland and compliant with CE, UKCA, and IEC standards.
• Durable Construction: The TPU cable sheath is designed for heavy use. The plugs are IP54 rated for dust and water resistance and are robust enough to be driven over.
• Optimal Conductivity: Ultrasonic welding and silver-plated contacts ensure low heat generation and a long service life.

Who is it for? EV drivers who frequently charge at public stations or own a wallbox without a tethered cable and need a durable, secure connection cable.

dé Wallbox Type 2 11kW with APP & RFID

Why it stands out This 11kW wallbox is a complete home charging station that combines smart features with comprehensive safety mechanisms. It is designed for permanent installation.

Advantages

• Smart Control: Use the Tuya Smart app (iOS/Android) to schedule charging sessions, adjust the charging current, and view charging data.
• Access Control: Authorise access to the wallbox using the included RFID cards to prevent unauthorised use.
• Integrated Safety: A built-in Type B Residual Current Device (RCD) (AC 30mA + DC 6mA) provides protection against both AC and DC fault currents.
• Practical Features: The 7.5-metre cable offers flexibility for parking, and the LCD display shows all relevant charging data in real time.

Who is it for? Homeowners looking for a permanently installed, intelligent, and secure solution for daily charging who value features like app control and access restriction.

feyree Portable EV Charger Type 2 11kW

Why it stands out This mobile wallbox combines the power of an 11 kW charging station with the flexibility of a portable device. It connects to a high-power socket via a CEE plug.

Advantages

• Flexible Use: Ideal for use in various locations without requiring permanent installation. All it needs is a 16A CEE high-power socket.
• App Control: Connect via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to control the charger with an app, allowing you to schedule charging times or adjust the current (from 8A to 16A).
• Comprehensive Safety Features: Integrated protection against leakage current (Type B AC30mA+DC6mA), overvoltage, overheating, and overcurrent.
• Informative Display: A 2.8-inch LCD screen displays the current charging status, power, and amperage.

Who is it for? EV drivers who cannot or do not want to install a permanent wallbox (e.g., renters) or those looking for a powerful charging solution for travel and visiting friends or family with a compatible power connection.

Haven't Found the Right Option?

The range of charging solutions is extensive and depends heavily on your individual needs. If you'd like to compare more options, you can find a wider selection in our Type 2 EV Charging Cables category.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between a Type 2 charging cable and a wallbox?

A Type 2 charging cable is the connecting cable between a charging station and the electric vehicle. A wallbox is the actual charging station, which is mounted on a wall and connected to the electrical grid. It contains the charging electronics and safety features. Some wallboxes have a permanently attached (tethered) cable, while others have a socket that requires a separate cable.

Can I use a 22kW charging cable with an 11kW wallbox?

Yes, that works without any problems. The charging system communicates the maximum possible power before the session begins. In this case, the charging process will be limited to the wallbox's output, which is 11 kW. The cable itself is not a limiting factor as long as its rated power is equal to or higher than that of the charging station.

What charging power do I need for my EV?

The maximum possible charging speed is determined by your vehicle's on-board charger (OBC). You can find this information in your car's manual. For most vehicles, an 11kW wallbox is sufficient to fully charge the battery overnight. A 22 kW solution is only faster if your vehicle can also accept that level of power.