Electric car plug: everything you need to know about charging

So, you’ve taken the plunge and bought an electric car? Or maybe you’re about to? Congrats! Now let’s talk about what really matters: how on earth do you charge this technological marvel with the right plug?

Don’t worry. EV plugs and charging stations are like phone chargers—once you get the hang of it, it’s easy. We’ll explain everything about the different types of electric plugs, without the confusing jargon. By the end of this article, you’ll be a pro at EV charging.

The different types of plugs: from basic to turbo

Before diving in, here’s a quick tech tip: there are two types of current for charging. Alternating current (AC) is what you use at home—perfect for daily charging. Direct current (DC) is for fast charging on highways. That’s it, now you’re up to speed!

Domestic plug: your backup plan

Let’s start with the basics. That good old wall socket in your living room? Yes, it can charge your EV. But let’s be honest: with just 2.3 kW of power, it’s like filling a pool with a teacup.

Expect 20 to 30 hours for a full charge. Convenient? Not really. But it’s handy when visiting friends or staying in a rental. The cable that comes with your EV usually works. Keep this option for emergencies—not daily use.

Reinforced socket: the smart home solution

Here’s the clever choice for home charging. The reinforced socket (like Legrand’s Green’Up) is a serious step up. With up to 3.7 kW of power, it charges twice as fast as a standard outlet.

The best part? It’s affordable: between €150 and €300 (excluding installation). Perfect if you drive less than 50 km per day. One night is enough to top up your battery.

Brands like Schneider Electric, Hager, and Legrand offer surface-mounted or flush-mounted models—all ultra-safe with built-in protection.

Pro tip: have it installed by a certified electrician. Your electrical panel—and your insurance—will thank you.

Type 2 plug: the European star

Think of the Type 2 plug as the Swiss Army knife of EV charging. It’s the European standard for AC charging and public stations. It works everywhere: your home wallbox, office parking, supermarket…

Its strength? Flexible power. From 7.4 kW (single-phase) to 22 kW (three-phase), it adapts to all EVs and setups. Result: 3 to 8 hours for a full charge depending on your wallbox.

Good news: all new EVs in France come with a Type 2 plug. It’s as standard as seatbelts. Compatible with all public and private chargers, it’s the universal solution.

Combo CCS (or Combo 2): turbo mode for long trips

Now we’re talking speed. Combo CCS (aka Combo 2 in Europe) is your best friend on the highway. It cleverly combines a Type 2 plug with two big pins for high-power DC charging.

The numbers are impressive: from 50 kW to over 350 kW on ultra-fast stations. Translation: 80% charge in 20–30 minutes. Just enough time for a coffee and croissant.

This is where Electra shines. Our stations offer fast charging from €0.29/kWh—you pay only for the energy, not the time. Check our detailed pricing for more info. We install them where you need them: highways, malls, hotels… So you never have to stress about range again.

CHAdeMO: the old-school option

We mention it for completeness, but CHAdeMO is like the Minitel of fast charging. Developed in Japan, it’s still used on a few models (hello, first-gen Nissan Leaf).

If your car has it, don’t worry—compatible stations still exist. But the future is clearly Combo CCS.

How to choose the right plug for you

First, consider where you’ll charge

• At home? Reinforced socket or Type 2 wallbox, depending on your daily use

• On city streets? Public chargers mostly use Type 2 (7 to 22 kW)

• On highways? Fast Combo 2 chargers dominate (50 to 350 kW)

• At work or in shared buildings? Often shared Type 2 wallboxes

Then, check your car

Every EV has its limits. A Renault Zoe accepts up to 22 kW AC, while a Tesla Model 3 caps at 11 kW. For DC fast charging? Some models go up to 250 kW, others max out at 50 kW.

Our tip: Open your car’s manual (yes, the one no one reads). Look for “maximum AC/DC charging power.” That’s your holy grail for choosing the right setup.

Your profile determines your choice

• City driver (<50 km/day): A Green’Up reinforced socket does the job. Simple, efficient, affordable. One night = full battery

• Active family (50–150 km/day): Go for a Type 2 wallbox with at least 7.4 kW. Charge overnight with ease. Bonus: compatible with all public chargers

• Frequent traveler or sales rep: 11 or 22 kW wallbox at home + access to Combo 2 fast chargers. Electra stations are perfect for long trips with transparent per-kWh pricing

• Multi-vehicle household: Consider a 22 kW wallbox. It’ll work with all your current and future EVs

What does power actually change?

Let’s take a 60 kWh battery (the current average):

• Domestic plug (2.3 kW): 26 hours

• Reinforced socket (3.7 kW): 16 hours

• Wallbox 7.4 kW: 8 hours

• Wallbox 11 kW: 5.5 hours

• Wallbox 22 kW: 2.75 hours

• Fast charger 50 kW DC: 1.25 hours

• Ultra-fast charger 150 kW DC: 25 minutes

Your electrical panel matters too. Upgrading to three-phase for a 22 kW wallbox? Possible—but needs careful planning. A certified electrician will assess everything and add the necessary protections. Don’t skip this step—it’s about your safety.

Installation: do it right

Why a pro is non-negotiable

Installing an EV plug isn’t like plugging in a lamp. You need:

• A differential breaker to detect current leaks

• Heavy-duty cables to handle continuous load

• Proper grounding

• Surge protection for peace of mind

Brands like Schneider Electric, Hager, and Legrand offer complete kits. Expect €500 to €1,500 for installation depending on complexity. It’s an investment—but it’s your peace of mind.

Incentives: the government helps out

Good news: EV charging is encouraged. So you get:

• €300 tax credit for your charger

• 5.5% VAT instead of 20% on installation

• Local subsidies depending on your region

In shared buildings? The ADVENIR program covers up to 50% of collective installation costs. Talk to your building manager—it’s the perfect time.

Daily charging: smart tips

Mix home and public charging

The winning combo? A solid home base (reinforced socket or wallbox) + public network as backup.

Download our Electra app for charging on the go. Bonus: you can reserve your spot in advance and pay automatically. No more juggling 15 cards!

Our Electra+ subscription gives you the best rate starting at €0.29/kWh. For long trips, plan your charging breaks at our fast stations. 20 minutes on a highway = 200 km of range. Arrive relaxed. Learn how to charge with Electra.

Charge smart: night rates are cheaper

Most wallboxes and EVs let you schedule charging. Use it! Off-peak hours are 30–40% cheaper.

Some energy providers even offer special EV rates. Check it out—savings can be substantial.

Take care of your setup

A well-maintained plug lasts longer:

• Check cables and connectors regularly

• Wipe contacts with a dry cloth occasionally

• Get a professional check-up every 2–3 years

• If anything seems off (heat, smell), call your electrician immediately

What does the future look like?

The future is bright. Ultra-fast chargers are popping up everywhere. Shopping centers are getting equipped. So are highway rest stops.

Wireless charging is coming—no more plugging in. Just park and charge. Magic.

And the best part? Standardization. No more plug confusion. Type 2 and Combo CCS are becoming the norm. Simple. Efficient. Universal.

In summary

Choosing your EV plug is actually pretty simple:

• For home: reinforced socket for short trips, wallbox for heavy use

• For travel: fast charging network has you covered

• For installation: always hire a pro

• For daily use: schedule, maintain, and enjoy

The most important thing? Choose what fits your needs, not your neighbor’s.

With a good home setup and a growing fast-charging network, electric mobility becomes a real pleasure. No more range anxiety. Just freedom.

Ready to make the switch? We’ll see you at our ultra-fast stations across France. And the best part? You only pay for what you use—no hidden fees. Simple, transparent, efficient. Just how we like it!

Want to go electric, made in France? Check out our transparent pricing and explore our station map. Download the Electra app on the App Store or Google Play Store for smooth, stress-free mobility.

Written by Pierre – Automotive Expert at Electra