Index
Connector types: which charging cable does your electric car need?
To cut through the confusion, let's go over the different connector types in plain terms. If you're still setting up your garage, we'd recommend reading our guide on how to install a home charging point first.
Here's a quick summary before we dive into the details:
| Connector name | Where it's used (home/fast) | Charging speed | Do you bring the cable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type 2 (Mennekes) | Home / urban car parks | Slow / semi-fast | Yes (on the street) / No (fixed at home) |
| Domestic plug | Home (emergencies) | Very slow | Sí (incluido con el vehículo) |
| CCS Combo 2 | Motorway | Fast / ultra-fast | No (built into the charging post) |
| CHAdeMO | Motorway | Fast / ultra-fast | No (built into the charging post) |
Type 2 connector (Mennekes): the European standard
This is the undisputed king of charging. You'll use it around 95% of the time, whether at your home charger or at public car parks on the street or in shopping centres.
Domestic plug (Schuko): for emergencies only
The classic wall socket:
- Charges very slowly: (10-15 km of range per hour).
- Should only be used as a last resort, never as a regular solution, to avoid overloading your home electrical installation.
CCS Combo 2 and CHAdeMO: for fast charging
These connectors are designed for long journeys. You don't need to buy these cables, as they come built directly into high-power charging posts.
Which electric car charging cable should you always keep in the boot?
Many urban public charging posts have a socket but no cable attached. To make the most of these points, you'll need a specific cable: the Type 2 to Type 2 (Mode 3) cable.
- You plug one end into the post and the other into your car.
- It's essential for charging while you're running errands around town.
3 key things to get right when buying your charging cable
Power and phases: single-phase or three-phase?
Don't pay over the odds for a cable your car won't fully use:
- Single-phase (up to 7.4 kW): ideal for plug-in hybrids or electric vehicles with a smaller battery.
- Three-phase (11 kW or 22 kW): necessary if your car supports high-speed AC charging. If you're unsure, check our article on understanding your electric car's battery and range.
The ideal cable length
We recommend a cable between 5 and 7 metres long. That way you'll avoid any strain on the connector and won't have issues if your car's charging port ends up far from the post.
Straight or coiled cable?
- Straight: gives you the full cable length, but you'll need to coil it neatly to keep it tidy in the boot.
- Coiled: much more convenient, as it retracts like a spring and stays off dirty ground, though its usable length when fully extended is shorter.
Moeve's ultra-fast network: do you need to bring a cable on the road?
The answer is a clear no. For fast or ultra-fast charging at our Moeve Stations, you don't need to buy a cable or even take one out of the boot.
Our stations have CCS2 and CHAdeMO cables fully integrated into the post. All you need to do is pull up, park, plug in and grab a coffee while you recover 80% of your battery in just 20 minutes.
Plus, with our exclusive subscriptions, you'll enjoy the best Moeve charging rates. You'll always know the price per kWh with complete transparency, giving you clear, straightforward savings on every long journey.
Frequently asked questions about electric car charging cables
Can an electric car charging cable get wet in the rain?
Yes. Charging systems are built to very strict waterproofing standards. You can charge safely in the rain without any concerns.
Can I use an extension lead with my electric car charging cable?
No, never. Domestic extension leads are not built to handle hours of high-power output, and there is a serious risk of fire or short circuit.
How much does a good electric car charging cable cost?
Prices typically range from 150 to 300 euros, depending on the length and the power output it supports. It's an essential investment for urban charging. For your road trips, however, the investment is zero with Moeve.
Understanding and choosing the right electric car charging cable is the first big step towards getting the most out of your zero-emission vehicle. Once you have your home charging point sorted and your Type 2 cable ready in the boot, range anxiety will become a thing of the past. You're all set to hit the road responsibly and with complete peace of mind.
