Type 2 EV Charging Cable: Which Length Do You Need? (5m, 7.5m or 10m)
Last updated: 5 August 2026
The Short Answer
A Type 2 to Type 2 cable is required for any untethered (socketed) home charger and for public charging with a Type 2 inlet EV. ON-EV stocks 5m, 7.5m and 10m lengths from £89. A charger mounted close to where you park usually only needs 5m. A longer run across a driveway or garage calls for 7.5m or 10m.
What Is a Type 2 to Type 2 Cable, and Do You Need One?
Type 2 (Mennekes) is the standard AC charging connector for UK and European EVs and PHEVs. A Type 2 to Type 2 cable has the same connector on both ends: one plugs into the charger, the other into the car. You need one if your home charger is untethered (a socket rather than a fixed cable), or if you want a spare cable for public charge points that are also untethered. Tethered chargers already have a cable built in, so you don't need a separate one for home use.
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Plug type | Type 2 (Mennekes) to Type 2 |
| Rated current | 32A |
| Max power | 7.4kW (single-phase) |
| Weather rating | IP44 |
| Cable material | TPU, UV resistant, flexible in cold weather |
| Connectors | Locking on both ends |
| Lengths | 5m (£89), 7.5m (£119), 10m (£143) |
Type 2 EV Charging Cable | 32A 7.4kW | 5m, 7.5m or 10m
Choosing a Length: 5m vs 7.5m vs 10m
| Your situation | Recommended length |
|---|---|
| Charger mounted within easy reach of your parking spot | 5m (£89) |
| Charger on the far side of a garage or across part of a driveway | 7.5m (£119) |
| Charger offset from where you park, or a shared driveway with variable parking | 10m (£143) |
| Using the cable at public charge points as well as at home | 10m covers the widest range of bay layouts |
Buy longer rather than shorter if you're unsure. A longer cable coils up for storage, but a cable that's too short won't reach the car at all.
What 32A and IP44 Actually Mean
32A is the cable's rated current, the maximum amps it carries safely. At 32A on a single-phase UK supply, that works out to 7.4kW, matching the output of most home chargers and untethered public points. IP44 rates the connector's protection against dust and splashing water from any direction, enough for the connector to sit outside at a charging point without extra cover, though it isn't rated for full submersion.
Using It for Public Charging
Many public charge points, particularly older or lower-power units, are untethered and expect you to bring your own Type 2 cable. Carrying one in the car covers you at these points without relying on the charge point operator supplying one. A 32A cable matches the output of most AC public chargers up to 7.4kW or 22kW three-phase points, though the car's onboard charger still limits the actual charging speed.
Type 2 EV Charging Cable | 32A 7.4kW | 5m, 7.5m or 10m
Get the Right Length from ON-EV
ON-EV ships the Type 2 EV Charging Cable nationwide across the UK. If you're not sure which length fits your driveway or garage, get in touch and we'll help you work it out before you order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need my own Type 2 charging cable?
Only if your home charger is untethered, or you want a spare for public charge points that don't provide their own cable. Tethered home chargers already have one built in.
What length EV charging cable do I need?
5m suits a charger mounted close to your parking spot. 7.5m or 10m covers a longer run across a driveway or garage, or a shared space with variable parking.
Is 32A enough for my car?
Yes, for any single-phase home charger up to 7.4kW, which covers the vast majority of UK home installs. Charging speed is set by the lower of the cable, the charger, and your car's onboard charger.
Does the cable work at public charge points?
Yes. Many untethered public points expect you to supply your own Type 2 cable, and a 32A cable matches the output most AC public chargers use.
Is the cable weatherproof?
The connectors are IP44 rated, protecting against dust and splashing water, suitable for outdoor use without extra cover.