Type 2 - 32A blue commando socket | 1 phase | Adjustable 8A - 32a | 7.4kW charging cable

Yes, a mobile EV charging cable such as the Voldt® mobile charger can be set to delay charging when connected to a CEE power socket or a normal household socket. This feature is particularly useful when you want to start charging during off-peak electricity hours or when energy tariffs are lower. Delayed charging helps reduce costs and eases the load on the power grid, especially in areas with dynamic electricity pricing.

The Voldt® mobile EV charger is equipped with an intuitive delayed charging function. You can easily set it up in a few steps. The delay can be set in 1-hour increments, up to a maximum of 10 hours. Here's how to do it:

How to activate delayed charging on your Voldt® mobile charger:

• Plug the charger into a power socket (CEE or Schuko).
• Connect the charging cable to your electric vehicle.
• Turn on the charger (the display will light up).
• Press and hold the setting button for 3 seconds to activate a 1-hour delay.
• For each additional hour of delay, press and hold the setting button again for 3 seconds.
• Example: Pressing and holding 3 times = 3-hour delay.
• Once you reach the desired delay time, stop pressing the button.
• The countdown will begin, and charging will start automatically after the set delay.

This function is available on both household (230V Schuko, approx. 2.3–3.0 kW) and industrial (CEE 16A/32A, up to 22 kW) sockets, depending on the model. While the delayed charging function behaves the same across socket types, the actual charging speed will depend on the power source and your EV’s onboard charger. With Voldt®, you get flexible, efficient, and safe charging tailored to your schedule.

Mode 3 charging for an electric vehicle (EV) is a charging method where the EV is charged via a dedicated charging station or wallbox, with controlled and secure communication between the car and the charging point. It is the most commonly used and recommended way to charge at home and at public charging stations.

Key Features of Mode 3 Charging:

1. Direct connection to a charging station
2. Safety and Intelligence
3. Charging Power
4. Smart Charging

Advantages of Mode 3 Charging:

✔️ Faster charging than a standard household socket (Mode 2).
✔️ Ensures safety with built-in communication and protection mechanisms.
✔️ Efficient energy management with smart charging functionalities.

Comparison with Other Charging Modes:

• Mode 1: No communication between the power source and the vehicle (an outdated and not recommended method).
• Mode 2: Charging via an electrical socket using a special cable where a computer in the cable handles the communication.
• Mode 4: DC fast charging (e.g., CHAdeMO or CCS) where direct current is supplied straight to the battery, often up to 350 kW.

In summary, Mode 3 is the standard and recommended method for daily EV charging, especially at home and public charging points. 🚗⚡

Yes, it is possible to charge an electric car with a genset (generator), but there are important technical conditions and safety precautions to consider. First, the generator must deliver sufficient continuous power output—both in wattage and voltage stability—to match the requirements of your EV’s onboard charger. For most EVs, this means a generator with a continuous output of at least 3.5 kW for slow charging, or 7.4 kW or more for faster charging via a 32A Type 2 connection.

Secondly, it is crucial that the generator delivers clean and stable electricity, typically through an inverter generator. Poor power quality or voltage fluctuations can interfere with the EV's charging system, potentially causing charging failures or damage. Many EV chargers, including Voldt® mobile charging cables, are equipped with safety protocols that automatically stop charging if unstable power is detected, which often happens with lower-end generators.

Lastly, your charging cable must be compatible with the power characteristics of the generator. For example, a Voldt® mobile charger designed for Schuko or CEE connections must match the output plug type and phase setup of the genset. In emergency or off-grid situations, this setup can be a valuable backup, especially with a properly rated portable EV charger. However, for daily use, we strongly recommend a certified, grid-connected charging solution for optimal efficiency, safety, and convenience.

Yes, CEE 16A and CEE 32A sockets differ significantly in power capacity, physical dimensions, applications, and cabling. The most important distinction is the maximum current each can handle: a CEE 16A socket supports up to 16 amps, while a CEE 32A socket is designed for 32 amps. This means a CEE 32A connection can deliver nearly double the electrical power, which is essential for high-demand applications such as industrial machinery or fast charging of electric vehicles.

Physical size and compatibility

One of the most noticeable differences is the physical size of the plug and socket. A CEE 32A socket is substantially larger and sturdier than a 16A socket. The 32A version typically has an outer diameter of around 70 mm compared to approximately 50 mm for the 16A. The pins are also thicker and spaced further apart. These differences are intentional to prevent mismatching: a 32A plug will not fit a 16A socket and vice versa, improving safety for higher-power connections.

Technical capacity and cabling

A CEE 16A socket is usually used for 230V (single-phase) or 400V (three-phase) applications and can deliver up to 11 kW. The CEE 32A socket can deliver up to 22 kW, making it ideal for more power-intensive setups like the Voldt Type 2 mobile charger with CEE 32A plug. This also means thicker cabling is required — typically 6 mm² for 32A vs. 2.5 mm² for 16A — to handle the higher current safely.

Applications and installation

CEE 16A sockets are common in camping grounds, garages, or for lighter mobile uses. CEE 32A sockets are used in industry, food trucks, construction sites, or high-capacity EV chargers. Their larger size means they’re also physically more robust and often waterproof (IP44 or IP67). Proper installation in the UK must include appropriate fuses and RCDs in line with BS 7671 wiring regulations.