3.6kW (16A Single-Phase) EV Charging Cables

3.6kW (16A single-phase) is the entry-level Mode 3 cable, and it suits older PHEVs, plug-in hybrids, and budget wallboxes capped at 16 amps. Expect around 12-15 miles of range per hour on a typical EV. It also runs cooler than a 32A cable, which can extend cable life if you charge daily on a 16A wallbox.

Most modern UK EVs and wallboxes are spec'd for 7.4kW (32A), and our 7.4kW range covers those. A 32A cable will work on a 16A wallbox, you will simply have paid for headroom you cannot use. Check your wallbox spec before ordering. 2-year warranty, free UK delivery over £150.

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3.6kW (16A Single-Phase) Charging Cables for UK EV owners

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Matching cable power to wallbox and supply

A 3.6kW EV charging cable is the entry-level Mode 3 cable, 16A single-phase, charging at about 13-14 miles of range per hour. It's slower than the 7.4kW cables most UK home wallboxes use, but there are real reasons buyers choose it: low-current public chargers, caravan-park hook-ups, older cars that cap their AC at 3.6kW, and budget-conscious second cables.

What "3.6kW" really means

EV cables don't generate power: they carry it from the source to the car. A 3.6kW (16A) rating describes the cable's maximum current capacity. The actual charging speed is determined by the lowest of three things: the source's output, the cable's rating, the car's onboard AC charger limit. So:

  • 16A wallbox + 16A cable + 7kW car = charges at 16A (3.6kW). Cable is the bottleneck.
  • 32A wallbox + 16A cable + 7kW car = charges at 16A (3.6kW). Cable is the bottleneck.
  • 32A wallbox + 32A cable + 16A car = charges at 16A (3.6kW). Car is the bottleneck.

When 3.6kW is the right choice

  • Caravan and motorhome charging: sites typically offer 16A blue Commando hook-ups; a 3.6kW Type 2 cable matches the supply.
  • Older EVs with a 3.6kW onboard limit: first-gen Nissan Leaf, original Outlander PHEV, some early Renault Zoes. A 7.4kW cable is wasted on these cars.
  • Backup / second cable: kept in the boot at lower cost than a full 7.4kW cable. Light, compact, fits in a small bag.
  • Some workplace and apartment AC chargers are 16A only, especially older Pod Point and BP Pulse public installs from 2017-2019.

When 3.6kW is the wrong choice

If you're buying a primary cable for daily home charging on a 7kW wallbox, a 7.4kW cable doubles your charging speed and only costs marginally more. The maths: 7.4kW adds 25-30 miles per hour; 3.6kW adds 13-14. For a typical 60kWh battery, 3.6kW takes 16 hours from empty; 7.4kW takes 8 hours. If you charge daily at home, 7.4kW is almost always the right answer.

Connector type and length

Most 3.6kW cables are Type 2 to Type 2 (UK and European standard). Type 1 to Type 2 3.6kW cables exist for older Leafs and similar, see the Type 1 to Type 2 collection. Lengths from 5m through to 15m are widely available; 5m is most common, 7m or 10m offers more flexibility.

3.6kW vs granny charger: what's the difference?

Both deliver about 3kW. The difference is the source-end connector:

  • Granny charger: UK 3-pin domestic plug → Type 2. For household sockets only.
  • 3.6kW Mode 3 cable: Type 2 → Type 2. For wallboxes and public AC chargers only.

A granny charger plugs into the wall; a 3.6kW Mode 3 cable plugs into a Type 2 socket. They're not interchangeable.

Build quality at the budget end

3.6kW cables are often the cheapest in the catalogue, but cheap doesn't have to mean unsafe. Hold the line on:

  • IEC 62196-2 certified Type 2 connectors: non-negotiable for any UK Mode 3 cable.
  • IP44 weatherproofing minimum.
  • OFC copper, not CCA: copper-clad aluminium cables run hot and degrade.
  • 2-year UK warranty minimum from a UK retailer.

Related

Questions

Will my wallbox use the full speed of this cable?
Only if the wallbox is rated equal or higher. A 32A cable on a 16A wallbox throttles to 16A. Check your wallbox spec: most UK home wallboxes are 32A (7kW) or 32A three-phase (22kW).
Do I have a three-phase supply?
Most UK domestic supplies are single-phase. If you're not sure, check your distribution board or ask a qualified electrician. Single-phase = one live wire; three-phase = three live wires (typically only newer or larger UK builds).
Will a higher-power cable damage my car?
No. The car requests current from the cable based on what it can accept. A 32A cable on a car that asks for 16A simply delivers 16A.
How long does delivery take?
In-stock items ship same-day if ordered before 16:00 on a working day. Standard delivery is next-working-day across mainland UK. Northern Ireland, Channel Islands and remote Highlands take 2-3 working days. Free delivery on orders over £150.
What warranty do these come with?
Every product on our shelf carries a minimum two-year manufacturer warranty. We administer warranty claims directly: ship the replacement next-day and collect the original at no cost to you.

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