Electric Vehicle Charging Cables are essential if you own an electric car. They enable you to connect your electric car to a charging point. While some public charging points come with cables already attached, most would expect you to provide your own. Choosing the correct cable can be a little daunting, however, there are a few key points to consider ensuring you purchase the most suitable one for your application.RS offer a great selection of high-quality EV Charging cables from well-known brands such as ABB, Harting, Amphenol Industrial, Phoenix Contact and of course RS PRO. Our EV cables come in a range of current ratings, voltage ratings cable lengths and connector combinations. In both single-phase and three-phase.

What are the different types of charging cables?

Cable Type 1Type 1 cables are terminated with a 5 pin SAE J1772 plug. They are typically used on cars built for the North American or Japanese market. Also known as a J plug, they are single-phase and have a maximum power output of 7.4kW.Cable Type 2Type 2 cables are terminated with an IEC 62196 7 pin plug and are the standard connector for the European market. Also referred to as a Mennekes plug, Type 2 connectors can charge up to 22 kW for private charging and up to 43 kW for public charging.

Charging Modes

The way you charge your electric vehicle is often referred to as a charging mode. There are four categories, Mode 1, Mode 2, Mode 3 or Mode 4.Mode 1Mode 1 is the easiest method of charging. It enables the vehicle to be connected directly to a standard 3 pin socket. Mode 1 is typically only used for vehicles with very low power requirements such as scooters or mopeds.Mode 2Mode 2 charging is much like mode 1. Mode 2 still allows direct connection to a standard 3 pin socket, but it also incorporates a built-in protection device that monitors the temperature and power draw.Mode 3Mode 3 doesn't use a cable with a 3-pin plug like Mode 1 and Mode 2 does. This method of charging uses a fixed wall box containing the protection device with a dedicated socket or permanently attached cable.Mode 4Mode 4 uses DC power, not AC. Mode 4 is a fixed charging point that contains its own independent onboard circuit and control electronics. The conversion of AC current to DC current takes place in the charging station and the power is sent directly to the battery. Due to the high current and voltages, the cable is always attached or 'tethered' to the charger.