Type 2 | mode 3 | 32a | 22kW charging cable

No noticeable power loss, even with longer cables

No, Voldt charging cables do not experience any significant power loss due to their length. Voldt uses only high-quality copper conductors with low resistance, ensuring that even longer cables (such as 10 or 15 metres) can efficiently transmit current without noticeable voltage drop. The cables are designed according to international standards (such as IEC 61851 and IEC 62196), which specify maximum allowable voltage drop and heat development, so charging performance remains optimal.

Optimal conductor size prevents voltage drop

In theory, longer charging cables could lead to some power loss, particularly if the cable has a thin conductor or is made from lower-quality materials. Voldt prevents this by using conductors with appropriate cross-sectional area depending on the cable’s maximum current rating (e.g. 6 mm² for 32A 3-phase cables). This keeps voltage drop to negligible levels—typically less than 1%—which is well within regulatory limits. This is crucial for both safety and charging efficiency.

Tested for performance and safety

Finally, all Voldt cables are rigorously tested for electrical performance, temperature rise, and reliability under load. Customers can trust that even a 15-metre cable performs just as well as a shorter one. This makes Voldt cables ideal for situations where the charging point is further away from the vehicle, without compromising on speed or safety.

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• Mode 1: No communication between the power source and the vehicle (an outdated and not recommended method).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. 🚗⚡

To charge your electric car safely and correctly, follow these steps in the right order: first, make sure your car is parked and switched off.

Then, connect the charging cable to the charging station or wall socket first, and only after that connect it to the vehicle. If you're using a Mode 2 cable (with an in-cable control box for household sockets), make sure the control box is positioned properly before plugging it into the car. The car and charging system will usually communicate automatically, and charging should begin without any extra steps.

To finish charging, always disconnect the cable from the car first, and then unplug it from the charging station or wall socket. This prevents electrical arcing and ensures a safer disconnection. Always monitor the charging status during the session via your car’s display or the charging point’s indicator lights.

Yes, Voldt® EV charging cables are compatible with all standard public and home charging stations in the United Kingdom that support Type 2 connectors. Type 2 (IEC 62196-2) is the official standard for EV charging infrastructure in the UK and across most of Europe, and all Voldt® charging cables are designed to meet this specification. This ensures seamless connectivity whether you’re charging at a public station, a wallbox at home, or a destination charger.

Voldt® offers a wide range of Type 2 charging cables with different amperage and phase options, such as 1-phase 16A, 1-phase 32A, 3-phase 16A, and 3-phase 32A. These variants ensure optimal charging performance depending on your vehicle's onboard charger and the capacity of the charging station. All cables are CE and TÜV certified and manufactured in Europe, ensuring high quality, safety, and full compliance with UK and EU regulations. The cables also feature industry-leading weather resistance, making them reliable for outdoor use in the UK's variable climate.

In addition to standard Type 2 to Type 2 cables, Voldt® also provides mobile charging solutions such as Type 2 to UK 3-pin plug (BS 1363) adapters. These are particularly useful for charging from regular household sockets in the UK. This flexibility ensures that even in locations without a dedicated EV charger, your vehicle can still be charged safely and efficiently. If you're unsure which cable best suits your vehicle or location, Voldt® provides a helpful cable selection tool and expert customer support.