The charging cable is an essential component of EV chargers. It connects the charger to the vehicles. Many factors regarding suitable charger cable types for your car must be considered.
This article will examine the various aspects of electric car charging cords or cables including what size cable for electric car charger do you need? We will also cover length, types, and factors to consider while buying a car charging wire.
What Is EV Charger Cable?
The EV charger cable connects the EV and charging station to allow the charging process. The cable has two sides; one is plugged into your EV, and the other is connected to the charging station or socket if you are charging at home.
Car charger cablesare an essential part of charging your EV. Some charging stations come with charging cables, while others may not have and would require you to bring your own.
There are different modes of charging cables, and they might not be related to the level of charging. There are three modes of charging which may be suitable for the type of charging.
As you move on, we will show you the various modes or types of EV charging cablesand what makes them different.
What Size Cable for Electric Car Charger?
When we talk about the sizes of EV chargers, we mean the length and accessibility to the charging station. The cable size will depend on how you pack your vehicle during plugging or unplugging the charger.
For instance, if you park the vehicle closer to the socket, you will need a shorter cable. However, if you want freedom in parking, you will need a longer cable. The average length of a charger cable is 16 feet (5 meters), and a 4mm 32A cable is enough for charging up to 32 feet (10 meters). If the distance is more than 32 feet, you should go for the 6mm cable. Besides, to connect charging power of 22 kW, you need three phases 32A cable.
What Is The Standard Length Of An EV Charging Cable?
One vital factor to consider when getting a car charger with cableis the length. The right length would cause discomfort, mainly when used in a charging station.
Usually, a charging cable is between 4 to 10 meters in length. It is more suitable to have a charging cable with a length of 7.5 meters.
When selecting the cable length, you need one that can comfortably reach the EV charger wherever your vehicle is parked. Consider where you will store the cable in the car so as not to take up too much space.
Also, ensure that you avoid the longest EV charging cable available. Cables that are too long can cause a lot of discomfort. It will take more work to handle and move around.
Types of Charging Cables
There are different types of charging cables suitable for EVs and charging types. It is essential to know how these types of charging cables function. It gives you an idea of which charger suits your vehicle.
Below are the types of charging cables for electric cars.
1. Module 1 charging cables
The module 1 charging cable is much simpler to use and understand the charging cable. All it entails is connecting the EV to a standard AC socket outlet. You can use an extension cord or standard plug.
In addition, the downside of this module of charging cable is that there is no communication between your EV and the charging point. In this case, there is no safety system or shock protection.
It is suitable for light electric vehicles like scooters or electric bikes. It should not be used for electric cars.
2. Model 2 charging cables
A model 2 charging cable comes typically with many EVs and is considered the standard charging cable. The cable will plug into your EV on one end and a socket on the other.
It has an IN-cable Control and Protection Device (IC-CPD), encompassing control and communication between the plug and subassemblies. It protects the standard wall plug and the EV during the charging process.
3. Mode 3 charging cables
Mode 3 cables are the most used EV charger in the world. The charging cable connects your vehicle to a specific charging station, mainly in commercial areas.
A Model 3 charging cable also encompasses control, communication, and protection during the charging process. It connects to charging plugs like type 1 or 2.
4. Mode 4 charging cables
Unlike the initially stated modes that send AC power which is then converted to DC via an onboard converter, the Mode 4 charging is quite different. Mode 4 is used for DC charging. With this cable, power is converted before being sent through the cable to the vehicle.
Furthermore, the mode is a dc charger cablethat provides EVs with the fastest charging. The line, on the other hand, is permanently connected to the charging station or source.
A liquid cooling system is set up to ensure that the cable maintains a stable temperature while the charging process continues.
The mode four charging cable is suitable with DC charging plugs. You can find cables suitable with plugs like the CCS1 if you are in North America, CCS2 if you are in Europe, and more.
Considering Factors While Buying an EV Charging Cable
When it comes to choosing the right electric vehicle charging cable, there are many factors that you need to consider. Some of these factors include the following.
1. Type of charging cable
The first factor you need to consider is the type of cable that you need. The type of cable you will charge depends on the type of charge you want.
If you have a scooter or electric bike, then a mode 1 charging cable is the best. If you deal with 4 cables, you will have fewer mobile cables, which will always be attached to the charging source or station.
2. Slow or fast charging
Another factor that you will have to consider is fast or slow charging. More rapid charging makes use of DC power. As we know, the mode 4 charging cable is the only cable suitable for this DC power.
3. Charging Plug
It is pretty easy to get the plug your EV uses. A quick search or a look at the vehicle’s manual will give you a clear understanding of what type of plug is suitable for the car.
If your vehicle uses Type 1 or 2 plugs, you may need a Mode 3 charging cable. You will need a mode 4 charging cable for a DC charging plug.
4. Tethered or Untethered EV charger
Another essential factor you should consider is a tethered or untethered EV charger. A tethered EV charger means the cable is already connected to a wall box, like in most Tesla Superchargers. Untethered is different; the charger cable is to be connected to the EV charger and can be detached after.
6. Three-phase charging
Three-phase charging offers a much faster type of charger. If you buy an EV charger cable, consider what charging mode supports three-phase charging.
Conclusion
Electric car charging wires or cables come in different sizes, lengths, and types. These differences affect how the line can deliver power and what type of charging it is suitable for. You need to understand these differences if you want the best EV charging cable for your vehicle.