With the ban on pure petrol and diesel new vehicle sales looming at the end of the decade, more people in the United Kingdom are switching to PHEV and fully electric cars. As a result, there is a growing need for car charging extension cables that allow drivers to charge their electric vehicles conveniently and efficiently.
While it is recommended to install a dedicated wallbox for regular home charging, there are situations where a car charging extension cable is necessary, such as when visiting relatives, at a workplace car park, or on holiday. Most car manufacturers supply only one cable, usually a Type 2 to Type 2 lead for public chargepoints. However, there are several alternatives available on the market that offer a cheaper or more flexible option.
In this article, I will explore the best car charging extension cable options for 2024 and evaluate their quality, features, durability, and price.
Key Takeaways:
- Electric vehicles and PHEVs are becoming more common in the United Kingdom.
- Car charging extension cables are essential for charging outside of home or work.
- There are alternatives to the cables supplied by car manufacturers.
- The best options for 2024 will be evaluated based on quality, features, durability, and price.
- Choosing the right cable is important for charging convenience and efficiency.
Simply Auto Premium
The Simply Auto Premium car charging cable is a top contender in terms of features and price. It offers several smart features that allow drivers to take advantage of cheaper electricity rates.
With a simple button and LED screen, owners can adjust the current flow between 8, 10, and 13 amps. This is useful for ensuring the safety of the electrical wiring or limiting the pull on the power supply.
The cable also has a timer function that can delay the start of charging to take advantage of cheaper overnight electricity rates.
Additionally, the Simply Auto Premium cable comes with a zip-up storage bag for convenience.
| Features | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Adjustable Current Flow | 8, 10, and 13 amps |
| Timer Function | Delay the start of charging |
| Storage Bag | Zip-up bag for convenience |
Streetwize 3-Pin 10A
The Streetwize 3-Pin 10A car charging cable is a basic and affordable option for occasional use. While it has a slower charging rate with a maximum of 2.4kW, it gets the job done. The cable has three LED lights that indicate the status of the charger and any faults. Surprisingly, it also comes with a zip-up canvas storage bag. The Streetwize cable has a reasonable IP55 rating for water and dust protection.
In terms of affordability, the Streetwize 3-Pin 10A car charging cable stands out. With an affordable price tag, it offers a budget-friendly solution for electric vehicle owners who need a basic charging cable for occasional use. Despite its lower charging rate, it still provides a reliable and efficient charging experience.
The inclusion of three LED lights is a convenient feature of the Streetwize cable. These LED lights act as indicators, clearly displaying the charger’s status and any potential faults. This helps users quickly identify any issues and ensures safe and efficient charging.
“The Streetwize 3-Pin 10A car charging cable offers a reliable and affordable option for occasional use. With LED lights indicating the charger’s status and faults, it provides peace of mind during the charging process.”
Another surprising feature of the Streetwize 3-Pin 10A cable is the zip-up canvas storage bag. This handy accessory allows users to neatly store the cable when not in use, preventing tangles and damage. The storage bag adds convenience and portability to the overall package.
In terms of durability, the Streetwize cable holds up well with its IP55 rating. This rating ensures protection against water and dust, making it suitable for outdoor use and ensuring longevity.
Overall, the Streetwize 3-Pin 10A car charging cable offers an affordable and reliable solution for electric vehicle owners who need a basic charge cable for occasional use. With LED lights, a zip-up storage bag, and an IP55 rating, it provides convenience, portability, and durability at an affordable price.
Ring RPC20A05
The Ring RPC20A05 car charging cable is a sturdily made and reliable choice for electric vehicle owners. It boasts a solid IP65 rating, offering excellent protection against water and dust. This robust construction ensures durability and longevity, making it a worthwhile investment.
One of the standout features of the Ring RPC20A05 is its charging information display. With a small color screen, it provides valuable data such as the time connected and power consumption during charging. This allows users to monitor and track their charging progress easily.
In addition to the information display, the Ring RPC20A05 also features a scrolling light. This scrolling light serves as a quick visual indicator of the charging status, even from a distance. It enhances convenience by providing immediate feedback on the charging process.
Another notable feature of the Ring RPC20A05 is its switchable charge rates. Users have the flexibility to choose between 6, 10, and 13 amps, depending on their specific charging requirements. This versatility allows for optimized charging performance and compatibility with various electric vehicles.
Please see the image below for a visual representation of the Ring RPC20A05:
Overall, the Ring RPC20A05 car charging cable is a reliable and feature-rich option for electric vehicle owners. Its sturdily made construction, solid IP65 rating, charging information display, scrolling light, and switchable charge rates contribute to a seamless and efficient charging experience.
Masterplug
The Masterplug car charging cable is the best option for those needing a longer cable for stretching across a garden or reaching inside a building. It offers a 10m option for an additional cost. The cable features a small LCD screen that displays useful charging information, including cumulative current and kWh trackers. It also has a hi-vis green cable, making it easy to spot and reducing the risk of tripping. The Masterplug cable has an IP54 rating, which provides protection against water and dust.
Key Features of the Masterplug Car Charging Cable:
- Long cable length of up to 10m for added flexibility
- LCD screen for displaying important charging information
- Cumulative current tracker to monitor charging usage
- Hi-vis green cable for easy visibility and safety
- IP54 rating for protection against water and dust
Conclusion
In conclusion, having a reliable car charging extension cable is essential for electric vehicle owners who need to charge their cars outside of home or work charging stations. The options mentioned in this article offer a range of features and prices to suit different needs. The Simply Auto Premium cable stands out for its smart features and adjustable current flow, while the Streetwize 3-Pin 10A cable is a basic and affordable choice for occasional use. The Ring RPC20A05 cable offers sturdy construction and a convenient charging information display. The Masterplug cable is the best option for those who need a longer reach.
Overall, it is important to choose a car charging extension cable that is compatible with your electric vehicle, offers the necessary safety protections, and meets your charging needs for efficiency and convenience. With the increasing popularity of EV charging, investing in a high-quality electric car charging cable is a wise decision to ensure charging efficiency and safety. Convenience is also a key factor to consider, especially when it comes to traveling or charging in different locations. By selecting the right car charging extension cable, you can enjoy the freedom and peace of mind that comes with easy and reliable charging.
