What is a Type 2 Charging Cable?
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If you have recently bought or are planning to buy an electric car, you have probably heard of the type 2 cable.
But what is a type 2 charging cable?
Type 2 Charging Cable for Charging Electric Cars
The type 2 charging cable allows you to charge with alternating current. The cable is European standard and suitable for all electric cars with a type 2 or CCS socket and all charging stations with a type 2 socket.
The plug of the cable has five contacts for charging with alternating current and 2 more, which are used for communication.
The Charging Capacity of Type 2 Charging Cables
There are type 2 cables with a charging capacity of up to 22 kW.
Depending on the coding of the cable, the charging power can also be lower, such as a maximum of 4.6 kW with a single-phase cable coded for 20 A.
So when buying, pay attention to the maximum charging power of your type 2 cable and how many phases are available.
For example, if you charge your e-car at a 22 kW wallbox with a Type 2 charging cable and your car only has a charging capacity of 11 kW, you will still not be able to charge faster than 11 kW.
If you want to charge your e-car at the highest speed, the Type 2 charging cable should support three-phase charging.
Which Electric Cars can Charge With the Type 2 Charging Cable?
Almost all electric cars available in Europe are equipped with Type 2 sockets. Here are some examples:
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Audi e-tron
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Tesla Model 3
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Volkswagen ID 3
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BMW i3
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Renault ZOE
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Opel Corsa-e
How Long are Type 2 Charging Cables?
Type 2 charging cables are available on the market in lengths of 2.5 m, 7.5 m and more.
For example, go-e offers type 2 charging cables with 2.5 m, 5 m and 7.5 m. Longer cables are usually not necessary.
go-e type 2 charging cable Black Edition (up to 22 kW) 7.5 m
Practical solution for situations where a car cannot be parked directly next to the charging station. The cable length allows two cars to be charged without having to move one of them.
go-e type 2 charging cable Black Edition (up to 22 kW) 5 m
The go-e cable for a maximum charging power of 22 kW is easy to handle. It is suitable for all electric vehicles with a type 2 plug. It can be used at both stationary and mobile charging stations.
go-e type 2 charging cable Black Edition (up to 22 kW) 2.5 m
You can park your electric car right next to the charging station? Then this cable is the perfect choice for you. It can remain permanently connected to the wallbox or be taken with you on your travels to charge at any wallbox or public charging station.
If you use it exclusively for charging at home, choose a shorter cable as it is easier to handle and usually takes up less space.
If you need a charging cable for public charging stations, you should choose the longest cable, as parking facilities may vary and you may not be able to park directly next to the charging station from time to time.