Type 2 EV charger connectors in Ireland

If you drive a modern electric vehicle in Ireland, chances are you're using a Type 2 charging connector. As the standard plug type across Europe, Type 2 chargers are widely supported at home, in public charge points, and in workplaces throughout the country.

Type 2 connectors are designed for AC charging, supporting speeds of 3.7kW, 7kW, and up to 22kW where three-phase power is available. With a secure seven-pin design and built-in locking mechanism, they offer safe, reliable charging for daily use. EVChargers.ie explains everything you need to know about Type 2 charging in Ireland.

What is a Type 2 EV connector?

The Type 2 plug is the standard AC connector for electric vehicles in Ireland and across Europe. It features seven pins and supports both single-phase and three-phase power, depending on your charger and electrical supply. Type 2 sockets are compatible with most modern EVs, including models from Audi, BMW, Hyundai, Kia, VW, Volvo, Renault, and more.

Most home and workplace chargers in Ireland are fitted with a Type 2 socket or come with a tethered Type 2 cable. These are typically used with AC charging stations, where power is converted from AC to DC inside the vehicle.

Charging speeds and compatibility

Type 2 connectors are highly versatile and support various charging speeds depending on the charger and your vehicle's onboard system:

• 3.7kW: Adds ~20km of range per hour
• 7.4kW: Adds ~40km of range per hour (most common for home use)
• 11kW to 22kW: Adds 60–120km per hour (requires three-phase power)

Most Irish homes use single-phase electricity, so 7kW is typically the fastest charging speed available without a major electrical upgrade. Public and workplace chargers may offer higher speeds depending on the site infrastructure.

Why Type 2 is the standard in Ireland

Type 2 has become the preferred EV charging standard in Ireland for several reasons:

• Widespread compatibility: Used by nearly all new EVs sold in Europe
• Secure connection: Built-in locking mechanism prevents tampering or accidental unplugging
• Supports smart charging: Compatible with features like scheduled charging and energy monitoring
• SEAI grant eligible: Most smart home chargers using Type 2 are eligible for the SEAI EV Home Charger Grant

Whether you're charging at home, at work, or using public infrastructure, the Type 2 plug is the safest and most practical option for everyday EV charging in Ireland.

Tethered vs untethered Type 2 chargers

Home chargers that use Type 2 connectors are available in two formats:

• Tethered: The charging cable is permanently attached to the unit — convenient, but fixed to one plug type
• Untethered: You supply your own cable — more flexible if you drive different EVs or plan to upgrade

If you only ever charge one vehicle at home, a tethered Type 2 unit offers the greatest convenience. However, untethered wall boxes give more flexibility, especially if multiple drivers use the charger.

Frequently asked questions about Type 2 chargers