With so many different types of cables and chargers out there, it can be difficult to figure out what extras you need to use your EV to its full potential.
In this article, we’ll help you figure out what type of cables you need for your EV. We’ll advise you on which public chargers have built-in cables and which ones require you to bring your own. Read on to find out more!
Which Public EV Chargers Have Cables?
The majority of standard EV public chargers will not come with cables attached. This is because EVs have cable ports in different locations and it would be near impossible to create a one-size-fits-all cable that would work for every type of vehicle.
The most common type of public chargers are AC chargers. Depending on your EV’s compatibility, these will require you to use a Type 1 or 2 cable, with the vast majority of EV’s now are Type 2.
Most DC chargers, however, will come with a cable attached. DC chargers are much more powerful than standard AC chargers, so they need a very strong cable that can support the quantity of electricity flowing through them without loss. Most of the time, this cable will be long enough that it can fit most EVs.
Tesla Superchargers, much like DC chargers, also have a cable built-in. However, the issue many non-Tesla drivers face when trying to use a Tesla Supercharger is that the cable is short in comparison to most DC chargers, leading them to park in an awkward position, blocking other stations when charging.
Do Home Chargers Come With Cables?
Most home chargers will not come with a cable. This is because different cars use different types of charging cables. So, if you were given a type 1 cable with your charger, but your car is only compatible with type 2, you wouldn’t be able to use it.
It also means that if you own both a type 1 compatible EV, and a type 2 compatible EV you can charge them using the same charging port by swapping the cables instead of buying two different charging ports.
What Type Of Cable Do I Need For My EV?
The first thing you need to do is find out if your EV is compatible with type 1 charging cables or type 2 charging cables. Most new EVs are compatible with type 2, and some older EV models use type 1.
You need to ensure that you’re only using high-quality charging cables for your EV. Low-quality cables could have an impact on charging time and battery performance. Investing in a good cable will allow you to make the most of your EV and take advantage of public charging options.
Contact Us For Advice
At Smartly, we believe that everyone has a right to know what they’re buying and how to use it. We believe in transparency and education when it comes to selling our products.
If you have any questions about charging your EV, cables or chargers, we’re happy to listen and help in any way we can. Contact us today!
