Buyer's Guide to Type 2 Electric Vehicle Cables

Choosing the right charging cable for an electric vehicle can be a challenge given the many technical specifications. Charging power, cable length, and safety certifications are critical factors that directly impact charging efficiency and operational safety. This article serves as an objective guide to help you select a suitable Type 2 charging cable. We will outline objective criteria and present a selection of products tailored to specific use cases.

Key Factors in Choosing an EV Charging Cable

To make an informed decision, three main criteria should be considered: charging power, cable length, and safety features.

1. Charging Power: 11 kW or 22 kW?

The charging power of a cable, measured in kilowatts (kW), determines the maximum speed at which your vehicle can be charged. The most common variants are 11 kW charging cables and 22 kW charging cables.

• 11 kW charging cables: These are the standard for most home wallboxes and many public charging points. A 3-phase charging cable with 11 kW (16A) is sufficient for many battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) to fully charge the battery overnight.
• 22 kW charging cables: These cables (32A) can potentially offer twice the charging speed but require that both the vehicle (via its on-board charger, OBC) and the charging station support this power level. A 22kW charging cable is a future-proof choice, even if your current vehicle only charges at 11 kW, as the charging electronics will automatically reduce the power.

Decision aid: Check your vehicle's manual for its maximum AC charging power. The choice of cable should be based on this value to make the best use of the charging infrastructure.

2. Cable Length: 5m, 7m, or 10m?

The right cable length depends on your typical parking and charging situations.

• 5m Type 2 charging cable: Ideal for home charging when you can park directly next to your wallbox charging cable. Shorter cables are lighter and easier to handle.
• 7m Type 2 charging cable: A good compromise for flexibility. This length is often sufficient to connect comfortably at public charging stations, even if the parking spot is awkwardly positioned.
• 10m Type 2 charging cable: Offers maximum reach and flexibility. This length is particularly useful if the vehicle's charging port is on the opposite side of the charging station or if the parking space is blocked.

3. Safety and Standards: Mode 3 and T?V Certification

An EV charging cable is a high-performance product where safety should be the top priority.

• Mode 3 charging cable: This is the European standard for charging at AC charging stations. A Mode 3 charging cable has an integrated communication unit that ensures a secure data exchange between the vehicle and the charging station before charging begins.
• T?V-certified charging cable: A certification from an independent testing organisation like T?V Rheinland confirms that the product has passed strict safety and quality tests. Look for this feature, as well as compliance with CE and IEC standards.

Recommended Charging Cables

Based on the criteria above, we have compiled a selection of GONEO Type 2 charging cables that are well-suited for different user needs due to their specific features.

GONEO 11kW 5m Type 2 Charging Cable

• What sets it apart: This cable is designed for efficiency and manageability in home use. The 11kW power is perfectly matched to the most common wallboxes and vehicles with a corresponding on-board charger. The certification by T?V Rheinland and the use of ultrasonic welding technology on the silver-plated contacts highlight its focus on safety and durability.

• Advantages:

  • Safety:T?V Rheinland certified, compliant with CE, UKCA, RoHS, ISO, and IEC.
  • Durability: IP54 protection rating (dust and splash-proof), operating temperature from -40°C to +50°C. The TPU cable jacket is designed for heavy-duty use.
  • Handling: The 5m length is ideal for charging at a home wallbox and is easy to store.

• Who it's for: Drivers of EVs or plug-in hybrids with an 11 kW on-board charger who primarily charge at home and are looking for a reliable, safe, and easy-to-handle cable.

GONEO 22kW 10m Type 2 Charging Cable

• What sets it apart: This model offers maximum flexibility by combining high charging power (22kW) with extended reach. The 10m length can bridge even greater distances to public charging stations or in complex parking situations. It is a solution for anyone who wants to be prepared for any scenario.

• Advantages:

  • Maximum Flexibility: The 10m length solves almost any reach problem at charging stations.
  • High Power: With 22kW (32A), the cable is designed for vehicles with high charging capacity, making it future-proof.
  • Durability: According to the manufacturer, it can withstand being run over by a 2-tonne vehicle and is suitable for use in all weather conditions thanks to its IP54 certification.

• Who it's for: Owners of pure battery electric vehicles (BEVs) with a 22 kW OBC who frequently charge in public and require maximum flexibility. It is also a great choice for drivers who often encounter blocked charging stations or difficult parking conditions.

GONEO 22kW 7m Type 2 Charging Cable

• What sets it apart: This cable represents a well-balanced compromise. The 7m length offers more flexibility than the 5-meter version without being as cumbersome as a 10-meter cable. Combined with 22kW charging power, it is a versatile everyday companion that performs well both at home and on the go.

• Advantages:

  • Universal Application: The 7m length is a practical standard for most public and private charging situations.
  • Powerful: Supports fast charging up to 22kW for compatible vehicles.
  • Certified Quality: Like the other models, this one is also T?V-certified and manufactured to high standards to ensure a long service life.

• Who it's for: EV drivers looking for a single, reliable cable for all use cases. It is suitable for charging at home, at work, and at public stations, offering a great balance of power, reach, and manageability.

Discover More Options

If you are interested in other technical equipment besides charging accessories, you can find more products in our Welding Equipment category.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the difference between an 11kW and a 22kW charging cable?

The main difference is the maximum charging power. A 22kW charging cable can theoretically charge twice as fast as an 11kW charging cable, provided the vehicle and the charging station support this power. A 22 kW cable can be used without issue at an 11 kW station or with an 11 kW vehicle; the charging power will then be automatically reduced to 11 kW.

2. Does a Type 2 charging cable fit every EV?

The Type 2 connector is the standard for AC charging in Europe and is compatible with most electric cars and plug-in hybrids (e.g., Tesla, VW, BMW, Mercedes, Audi). Exceptions include older models or vehicles designed for other markets that use a Type 1 (J1772) or CHAdeMO connector, for example. Always check your vehicle's connector type.

3. Why is a T?V-certified charging cable important?

A T?V-certified charging cable has been tested by an independent body for electrical safety, mechanical durability, and material quality. Since high currents flow during charging, such a certification ensures that the product meets strict safety standards and minimises risks like overheating or short circuits. It is a crucial feature for a safe and long-lasting product.