DIRECT ANSWER
For most current UK EVs using an untethered AC charger, the starting point is a Type 2-to-Type 2 cable. Choose a cable rated for the maximum AC power genuinely supported by the car and chargepoint. A 32 A single-phase cable covers roughly 7.4 kW; obtaining about 22 kW requires compatible three-phase equipment and a vehicle that can accept it.
Rapid DC chargers normally provide their own attached cable.
INTERACTIVE CABLE FINDER
Build a starting specification
Use this to narrow the choice, then confirm the exact specification in the vehicle manual and with the cable supplier.
Type 2 to Type 2, approximately 7.5 metres
32 A single-phase cableThe car’s onboard charger, chargepoint and cable determine the final AC speed together. A higher-rated cable cannot make the vehicle accept more power.
01 / CONNECTOR TYPE
Match both ends of the cable
Type 2 to Type 2
Used between a Type 2 vehicle inlet and an untethered Type 2 AC chargepoint. This is the common arrangement for current UK and European plug-in vehicles.
Type 2 to Type 1
Used where the chargepoint has a Type 2 socket but the vehicle has a Type 1 AC inlet. Confirm the precise generation rather than relying on the manufacturer name.
CCS or CHAdeMO
Rapid chargers normally have the heavy DC cable attached. The vehicle manual confirms the compatible rapid connector; a portable AC cable does not replace it.
02 / POWER & PHASES
The slowest compatible component sets the speed
| Cable starting point | Typical maximum | When it makes sense |
|---|---|---|
| 16 A single phase | About 3.7 kW | Only when deliberately matched to a lower-power use. |
| 32 A single phase | About 7.4 kW | Common home and public AC charging where the car accepts around 7 kW. |
| 32 A three phase | Up to about 22 kW | Where the car and chargepoint both support three-phase AC, or for confirmed future flexibility. |
A car advertised with 150 kW rapid charging may still have an 11 kW or lower onboard AC charger. Portable Type 2 cable ratings relate to AC charging.
03 / LENGTH & DAILY USE
Buy enough reach without creating a daily nuisance
5 metres
Compact and lighter. Best when the home parking position and charge-port location are predictable.
7.5 metres
A useful compromise for public bays, mixed cars or changing parking direction, without the bulk of the longest options.
10 metres
Useful only when the extra reach is genuinely needed. Check storage, weight and safe routing before buying.
Right-angle access
Measure the real route around the car rather than a straight line. Keep connectors and cable away from traffic and trip hazards.
04 / QUALITY & SAFETY
Check the specification, not only the marketplace title
- Buy from a traceable UK supplier with a clear warranty and support contact.
- Confirm connector type, current, phase rating and vehicle compatibility in writing.
- Inspect pins, plugs and insulation before use; stop using damaged or overheating equipment.
- Keep connectors dry and clean and follow the vehicle and chargepoint instructions.
- Route and store the cable so it is not crushed, tightly kinked or a trip hazard.
Confirm the exact connector, phase, current, length and warranty before ordering.
Visit EVCables ↗COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently asked questions
Which charging cable do most UK electric cars use?
Most current UK and European EVs use a Type 2 AC inlet, so an untethered Type 2 chargepoint normally requires a Type 2-to-Type 2 cable. Some older vehicles use Type 1, so always confirm the exact model and year.
Will a 22 kW cable make an electric car charge faster?
Only when the chargepoint, cable and vehicle's onboard AC charger all support the higher rate. A 22 kW post cannot make a car with a 7 kW onboard charger accept 22 kW.
Do rapid chargers require a separate charging cable?
Normally no. Rapid and ultra-rapid DC chargers generally have their CCS or CHAdeMO cable attached. A driver's portable cable is mainly used with untethered AC chargepoints.
Is a 5 metre EV cable long enough?
It may be suitable for a predictable home parking position, but 7.5 metres gives more flexibility where charge-port positions and public bays vary. Longer cables are heavier, bulkier and should still be fully uncoiled and positioned safely.
Can a three-phase Type 2 cable work on a 7 kW chargepoint?
Many correctly specified three-phase Type 2 cables can also be used at lower single-phase rates, but compatibility, current rating and connector type must still be confirmed with the vehicle and cable manufacturer.
SOURCES
Official information and further reading
- Coventry City Council: EV connector types and charging rates
- City of Edinburgh Council: untethered 7 kW and 22 kW Type 2 chargers
- Energy Saving Trust: charging electric vehicles
- GOV.UK: public chargepoint regulations
Rules, grants, prices and products can change. Check the linked source before acting or buying.