A 7.4 kW Type 2 cable normally supports 32 A single-phase charging, while 11 kW and 22 kW cables are commonly used for three-phase charging at 16 A and 32 A. The best option depends on the vehicle’s AC charging limit and the charging point. A higher cable rating will not make the vehicle charge faster unless the rest of the setup supports it.
What Do 7.4 kW, 11 kW and 22 kW Mean?
A 7.4 kW Type 2 cable is normally designed for single-phase charging at up to 32 A and 230 V. This option can suit vehicles that rely on single-phase AC charging.
The 7.4 kW rating is also found on portable charging equipment. For example, a single-phase 32 A portable EV charger can provide up to 7.36 kW from a compatible CEE socket. However, this is a portable charger with a control box, not a Type 2-to-Type 2 cable.
An 11 kW Type 2 charging cable supports three-phase charging at up to 16 A and 400 V. It is suitable for many vehicles with an 11 kW onboard AC charger.
A 22 kW Type 2 charging cable supports up to 32 A on a three-phase supply. It can provide up to 22 kW when the vehicle and charging point also support that power.
| Cable rating | Typical AC supply | Common use |
|---|---|---|
| 7.4 kW | Single-phase, 32 A | Vehicles that use single-phase AC charging |
| 11 kW | Three-phase, 16 A | Vehicles with up to 11 kW three-phase AC charging |
| 22 kW | Three-phase, 32 A | Vehicles with up to 22 kW three-phase AC charging |
Why Does the Cable Not Decide the Charging Speed?
The vehicle, charging point and cable each have their own power limit. The lowest limit sets the actual charging speed.
A vehicle that supports 7.4 kW single-phase charging will not receive 11 kW simply because it is connected to an 11 kW three-phase charging point.
An EV with an 11 kW onboard charger will receive no more than 11 kW from a 22 kW charging station. Using a 22 kW cable will not increase the vehicle’s limit.
The same applies when the charging point provides less power than the vehicle can accept. The ADAC guide to Type 2 charging cables notes that many electric cars use only 11 kW at public AC stations capable of providing up to 22 kW.
Which Cable Should You Choose?
Choose a 7.4 kW cable when the vehicle uses single-phase AC charging at up to 32 A and the charging point supports the same setup. For home charging in Germany, the electrical connection and local grid requirements must also allow the required single-phase current.
An 11 kW cable is usually enough for a vehicle that supports up to 11 kW three-phase charging. A higher-rated cable will not reduce its charging time.
Choose a 22 kW cable when the vehicle supports 22 kW three-phase AC charging and you want to use the full power of a compatible charging point.
A 22 kW cable can also work at many lower-powered Type 2 charging points. It offers more flexibility for a future vehicle, although it is not necessary for every driver.
Check These Three Things Before You Buy
Your vehicle: Confirm that it has a Type 2 connection. Then check its maximum AC power and whether it charges on one phase or three phases.
Where you charge: Check the power available from your usual wallbox or public AC charging station. Do not use the station’s maximum number alone—the vehicle must support it too.
The cable length: Choose a cable that reaches the charging port without being pulled tight. A longer cable gives you more freedom when parking but takes up more room in the boot.
Recommend Reading: Schuko or CEE: Which EV Charger Is the Better Fit?
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Portable EV Charger vs. Type 2 Cable: What Is the Difference?