EV Charging Cables, Tethered Cables & Sockets Explained
EV Charging Cables, Tethered Cables, Sockets & Accessories Explained
Whether you're specifying a new charge point, replacing a damaged cable, or building a custom EVSE, getting the connector setup right matters — it affects cost, convenience, and cable security. This page brings together everything on charging cables, tethered leads, sockets, and the accessories that go with them, with links through to the full range.
Tethered cable vs socket: which do you need?
| Type | How it works | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Tethered cable | Cable is permanently attached to the charge point — just uncoil and plug into the car | Home driveways, single-vehicle households, anyone who wants the simplest day-to-day experience |
| Socket (untethered) | Charge point has a Type 2 socket; you connect your own separate charging cable | Multi-EV households (different cable lengths/types), commercial sites, installers who want flexibility, anyone wanting to store the cable indoors |
| Portable charging cable | A separate Mode 2 or Mode 3 cable carried in the car, used with socketed charge points or 3-pin/commando outlets | EV owners who charge at multiple locations, or as a backup for socketed home units |
Cable amperage & power (kW) ratings
EV charging cables are rated by amperage, but it's the power output in kW that determines how fast your vehicle actually charges. The table below shows how amperage converts to charging speed for single-phase and 3-phase supplies:
| Supply | Current rating | Approx. power | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-phase (230V) | 13A | ~3kW | Granny/3-pin portable charging cable |
| Single-phase (230V) | 16A | 3.6kW | Slower single-phase charging |
| Single-phase (230V) | 32A | 7.4kW | Standard UK home charge point speed |
| 3-phase (400V) | 16A | 11kW | 3-phase domestic or light commercial |
| 3-phase (400V) | 32A | 22kW | Fast 3-phase commercial charging |
Actual charging speed also depends on your vehicle's onboard charger — a car with a 7.4kW onboard charger won't charge any faster from a 22kW 3-phase cable, since the vehicle itself limits the rate.
Charging cables
EcoHarmony stocks Type 2 to Type 2 EV charging cables in a range of lengths and amperages, for both single-phase and 3-phase installations. These connect a socketed charge point to the vehicle, or can be carried as a portable cable for charging away from home.
Type 2 charging cables in all standard lengths and amperages. In stock, trade pricing available.
View charging cables →Tethered cables
Tethered cables are supplied fitted to Simpson & Partners and EcoLite charge points, and are also available as standalone replacement leads for Type 1 and Type 2 vehicles, in single-phase and 3-phase versions. If your existing tethered cable is damaged or you're building a charge point from component parts, a replacement tethered lead can usually be fitted without replacing the whole unit.
Type 1 and Type 2 tethered leads, single & 3-phase, for charge point builds and replacements.
View tethered cables →Sockets
Type 2 sockets are used in socketed (untethered) charge points, giving the flexibility to use any compatible charging cable. EcoHarmony stocks both motorised (locking) and solenoid-locking Type 2 sockets, suitable for custom EVSE builds and installer projects, alongside pre-built socketed charge points from Simpson & Partners and EcoLite.
Type 2 motorised and solenoid sockets for socketed charge point builds.
View sockets →Accessories
Once you've got the right cable or socket, a few accessories make day-to-day use easier — from wall-mounted plug holders that keep tethered cables tidy and off the ground, to hard-shell carry cases for protecting portable charging cables in the car.
Plug holders, carry cases and cable management accessories for EV charging cables.
View accessories →Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose a tethered cable or a socket for my home charge point?
For most single-EV households, a tethered cable is simpler day-to-day — there's nothing to carry or connect separately. A socketed charge point is worth considering if you have more than one EV with different cable requirements, want to store the cable indoors when not in use, or are installing at a commercial site where cable flexibility matters more than convenience.
What length of EV charging cable do I need?
This depends on the distance between your charge point and where you park. 5m is the most common length for home driveways, but longer cables (7.5m–10m) are worth considering if you park at an angle to the charger, share the space with another vehicle, or want the flexibility to reach different parking spots.
Can I replace a damaged tethered cable myself?
Replacing a tethered cable involves working inside the charge point enclosure and reconnecting to the EPC or control electronics, so this should be carried out by a qualified electrician or your installer, not as a DIY job. The cable itself, however, is often replaceable as a standalone part rather than needing to replace the entire charge point.
What's the difference between a Type 1 and Type 2 connector?
Type 2 is the standard connector for EVs sold in the UK and Europe since around 2014, and is what almost all home charge points and public chargers now use. Type 1 connectors are found on some older or imported vehicles, primarily from Japan and the US. If you're unsure which your vehicle uses, check the charging port on the car itself or your vehicle handbook.
Do I need a 3-phase charging cable?
Only if your charge point and electricity supply are 3-phase, and your vehicle supports 3-phase AC charging. Most UK domestic properties are single-phase, and most home EV chargers (up to 7.4kW) run happily on a single-phase supply. 3-phase cables and charge points are more common in commercial installations and for vehicles/chargers rated above 7.4kW.
What's the difference between a 16A and 32A charging cable?
The amperage determines the maximum charging speed the cable can carry. A 16A single-phase cable delivers around 3.6kW, while a 32A single-phase cable delivers around 7.4kW — the standard speed for most UK home charge points. On a 3-phase supply, the same 16A and 32A ratings deliver roughly 11kW and 22kW respectively. Your actual charging speed is also limited by whichever is lowest out of the cable rating, the charge point's output, and your vehicle's onboard charger.