Skip to main content
Which charging cable should I use with my EV?
Jannie Vranckx avatar
Written by Jannie Vranckx
Updated over 4 months ago

The charging cable you should use with your EV depends on your specific car model and the type of charging you're doing. However, we can provide you with general information about the most common charging cables and connectors used in Europe, :

  1. Type 2 (Mennekes) Connector: This is the standard connector for AC charging in Europe. It's used for most home and public AC charging stations. If your car has a Type 2 socket, you'll use a cable with a Type 2 connector on both ends.

  2. CCS (Combined Charging System) Connector: This is the European standard for DC fast charging. It combines the Type 2 connector with two additional DC pins. If your car supports CCS, you can use both AC charging stations (using the top part of the socket) and DC fast charging stations.

  3. CHAdeMO Connector: While less common in Europe, some Asian car models use this connector for DC fast charging. If your car has a CHAdeMO port, you'll need to use charging stations that support this standard.

Here are some additional points to keep in mind:

  • Most modern EVs come with a Type 2 cable for AC charging. This cable typically has a Type 2 connector on one end (for the car) and a standard household plug on the other end for charging at home.

  • For public charging stations, you often don't need to bring your own cable. AC charging points usually have a tethered Type 2 cable, while DC fast charging stations always have the cable attached.

  • The charging speed depends not only on the cable but also on your car's onboard charger, the charging station's capacity, and other factors.

  • The Mbrella Charge app allows you to filter charging stations based on the connector type your car uses, making it easier to find compatible charging points.

To determine the exact cable you need:

  1. Check your car's manual or the charging port on your vehicle to identify the type of connector it uses.

  2. Consider where you'll be charging most often (home, work, public stations) and what types of connectors are available there.

  3. If you're unsure, consult with your car dealer representative for advice specific to your EV model.

Did this answer your question?