EVSE break down the ins and outs of EV charging cables and EV adaptors
If you live in Adelaide, Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane, you might have noticed a new type of EV charger being installed at your workplace, shopping centre, or council car park. These EV charging stations don’t have a tethered cable like traditional EV charging stations but instead, rely on the EV driver bringing their own EV cable specific to their type of EV.
Several key benefits support this type of EV Charging infrastructure: the main points being less wear and tear on a tethered cable, Universal EV Charging for all EVs, and the capability for three-phase 22kW EV charging.
So which EV Charging cable do you need for your EV?
This depends solely on the EV you drive, and one quick look at the charging port will tell you what EV cable you require. The other end will always be the same, it will have a Type 2 (Sometimes called Mennekes) plug that connects into the Universal EV charging station socket.
Type 1
Type 1 (aka J1772) – This is an older (but still common) type of EV Charging cable in Australia. This type of EV cable has a capacity of 7.4kW at single-phase and is commonly seen in Japanese EVs and all kinds of PHEVs. These include models across the following brands: BMW, Nissan Leaf (Pre-2018), Mitsubishi, Toyota Plug-in, Volvo, Audi, Mercedes Benz, and more.
Type 2
Type 2 (aka Mennekes) – This is now the Australian standard and the vast majority of new EVs will use Type 2. Originally used by Tesla, the allowance for three-phase charging and widespread adoption has made this configuration the preferred option across the market. Many of the major car companies are now continuing to transition to Type 2 and we recommend checking out our car brand guide to make sure you’ve got the right one.
Other
EV Adaptor Cables – These are used for vehicles that utilise a Type 2 inlet on the electric vehicle, but who wish to utilise EV charging stations that have a tethered (cabled) Type 1 cable, which is uncommon nowadays but still around. There is also the Type 2 adapter which allows older Type 1 (J1772) vehicles to use Type 2 cabled charging stations.
So there you have it, a rundown on the different types of EV charging cables, the differences, and which one is right for your EV. Remember to consider the length of the cable and how you will mostly be using it. For most people, the 5m cable is the best option as it gives them maximum flexibility and portability, whereas for others who might own multiple EVs a longer EV cable such as 7m or 10m might be a better option.
evse.com.au provide a wide range of cables and adapters for all types of electric cars available in Australia. Feel free to get in touch with their team for expert advice.
