Type 2 (Mode 3) EV Charging Cable
What a Type 2 Mode 3 EV charging cable is
A Type 2 Mode 3 EV charging cable is the cable most commonly used for AC charging at public stations, workplace chargers and untethered home wallboxes in Europe and many other markets. Type 2 refers to the connector standard, often called Mennekes. Mode 3 means the cable connects the vehicle to a dedicated AC charging station with control and protection communication built in, rather than to a plain domestic socket.
Immediate answer for most buyers
For most electric cars with a Type 2 inlet, the suitable cable is a Type 2 to Type 2 cable, also written as Type 2 to Type 2 EV charging cable. This plugs into the car at one end and into an untethered public or home AC charging station at the other. If the charging station has a fixed cable, you do not need to bring your own cable.
Compatibility and what materially changes the choice
The correct cable depends mainly on the vehicle inlet, the charging station outlet and the onboard charger rating. Cars with a CCS inlet still use the upper Type 2 portion for AC charging, so a Type 2 to Type 2 cable usually fits. Some older or smaller vehicles, or certain Asian-market models, may have a Type 1 inlet and would need a different cable or adapter. Check the vehicle handbook for the inlet type and maximum AC charging rate.
Single-phase and three-phase ratings
Type 2 Mode 3 cables are available in single-phase and three-phase versions. A 32A three-phase cable can support up to 22kW AC charging where the car and charging station also support it. Many electric cars have a single-phase onboard charger and will charge at a lower rate even when using a 22kW cable. A 32A cable is generally a sound choice for future use, but it will not increase the charging speed beyond the vehicle limit.
Common cable lengths: 5m, 10m and 15m
The most common lengths are 5 metres, 10 metres and 15 metres. A 5m cable is lighter and easier to store, but can be too short when the charging station is positioned awkwardly or another vehicle occupies the ideal space. A 10m cable adds flexibility and is a popular all-round option. A 15m cable helps with larger vehicles, trailers or poorly placed charging bays, but it is heavier and takes more effort to coil and store.
Choosing a cable for public charging stations
At public AC charging stations with a tethered cable, you do not need your own cable. At untethered stations, you must supply a Type 2 to Type 2 cable. A 5m cable covers many situations, while a 10m cable reduces the chance of being unable to reach a charge point. DC rapid chargers use their own fixed cables and do not use this cable.
Current rating and connector specification
Type 2 to Type 2 cables are commonly rated at 16A or 32A. A 32A three-phase cable is usually specified as 22kW capable. The actual charge rate is limited by the lowest rated part of the chain: the cable, the charging station, or the vehicle onboard charger. For example, a 32A cable on a vehicle with a 7.2kW single-phase charger will charge at roughly 7.2kW, not 22kW.
What to check before buying
Vehicle AC inlet type: Type 2 is standard on most modern EVs and PHEVs in Europe, but confirm in the handbook. Maximum AC onboard charger rate: this sets the useful ceiling for cable rating. Cable length: match it to your parking situation and typical public charging use. Current rating: 32A is widely recommended, but not required for vehicles with lower AC limits. Untethered versus tethered charge points: a cable is only needed at untethered AC stations. Storage and weight: longer and higher-rated cables are heavier and bulkier.
Gaps and things not to assume
Specific pricing, product availability and exact charging speed for a particular model and market are not supplied here. Vehicle compatibility can differ by model year, trim and region, so the vehicle handbook or manufacturer specification remains the authoritative source. Cable markings should state the voltage and current rating; if the rating is unclear, treat the cable as unverified for high-power use.