Site: Evchargers.ie Page: Type 2 EV connector – The standard plug for Irish EVs Path: /type-2-ev-connector URL: https://evchargers.ie/type-2-ev-connector Description: Discover why Type 2 connectors are standard in Ireland and Europe. See compatible EV models and charger installation options. Form: present FormAction: Users can submit the form on this page to get offers from multiple providers. FormAnchor: #form FormCTA: Compare home EV charger options --- ![Pictured is a bright yellow EV being charged at a public charging station.](https://content.nettbureau.com/media/type-2-connector-960x540.webp?prefix=295e6d5f-c1d6-4e4e-8495-683d4f8fb754) ## Why Type 2 connectors dominate Ireland's EV world The go-to plug for Irish EVs — here's why it's leading the charge. # 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. [Compare home EV charger options](#form) ## 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 What EVs use a Type 2 connector in Ireland? Most modern EVs in Ireland use a Type 2 connector, including models from Tesla, Hyundai, Kia, Renault, Volkswagen, Volvo, Audi, BMW, and more. Type 2 has replaced Type 1 as the standard across Europe. Can I use a Type 2 plug with a three-phase supply at home? In theory, yes — a Type 2 charger can support up to 22kW charging via a three-phase power supply. However, most Irish homes only have single-phase connections, so 7kW is typically the fastest supported speed at home. Is a Type 2 charger eligible for the SEAI grant? Yes. Most smart wall-mounted home chargers using Type 2 connectors are eligible for the SEAI EV Home Charger Grant, which offers up to €300 toward the installation cost for private homeowners. Can I use a Type 2-to-Type 1 adaptor? Yes, adaptors are available to allow Type 1 vehicles to connect to Type 2 sockets. However, these are mainly useful for older EVs. Most newer cars are already equipped with a Type 2 inlet. Is a Type 2 charger better than a Type 1? Yes. Type 2 supports higher speeds, includes a locking mechanism for safety, and is the new standard across Europe. If you're buying a new EV or installing a home charger, Type 2 is the recommended choice. ## Why use EVChargers.ie? ### Compare EV charger quotes Get multiple quotes from trusted suppliers – all in one place. You choose the offer that suits you best. ### 100% free and no commitment Our service costs nothing and there's no obligation. Don't like the offers? You're free to walk away. ### Save yourself time and hassle We handle the legwork so you don't have to. Skip the research and focus on what matters to you. #### Our awards ![Financial Times and Statista Europe's Long-Term Growth Champions 2026 award for Nettbureau.](https://content.nettbureau.com/media/nettbureau-ft%20-%20750.webp?prefix=50698f1e-5efa-4c2c-89fa-a1d7f6a0c34f) ![Gazelle Hall of Fame](https://content.nettbureau.com/media/gaselle-badge-hall-fame.svg?prefix=1ee41100-7304-4b6a-a3b7-e16df7635dd7)