One of the most common questions we’re asked is:
“Do you sell EV charging extension cables?”
It sounds like a simple solution when your charge port is just out of reach — but electrically and by regulation, using an extension cable between an EV and the charging equipment is not allowed and not safe.
🚫 Why EV Extension Cables Are Not Permitted
This isn’t just company policy — it’s based on UK wiring regulations, international EV standards, and safety guidance.
✅ 1. UK Wiring Regulations — BS 7671 (Section 722)
In the UK, EV charging installations must comply with BS 7671:2018 + A2:2022 (IET Wiring Regulations).
This means:
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EV charging points must be installed on a dedicated circuit.
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If a household socket (BS 1363) is intended for EV charging, it must be a specially installed EV-marked socket, protected by the correct RCD and earthing arrangements.
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Extension leads, cable reels or multi-adaptors are not considered part of a compliant EV charging installation.
This requirement is anchored further in international standards.
✅ 2. IEC 61851-1 — The Global EV Charging System Standard
This is the international safety standard that governs how electric vehicles connect to charging equipment.
It is adopted in the UK as BS EN IEC 61851-1.
It clearly states:
“A cord extension set or second cable assembly shall not be used in addition to the cable assembly for the connection of the vehicle to the EVSE.”
This clause alone is why reputable manufacturers do not sell Type 2 extension cables — doing so would breach the global safety standard that applies to every EV sold in the UK and Europe.
✅ 3. IEC 62196 — What It Covers (and Doesn’t)
IEC 62196 is the standard for EV charging connectors — Type 1, Type 2, CCS, etc.
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It defines the dimensions, pin layout, testing, and ratings of EV connectors and cable assemblies.
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It assumes the EV charging cable is a single, certified piece of equipment.
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If you add an extension cable, you create an unapproved assembly — no longer compliant with IEC 61851-1 or BS 7671.
🔥 Are Extension Leads Really Dangerous?
Yes — here’s why standards exist to prevent them.
| Risk | Why it happens |
|---|---|
| Overheating / Fire | EVs can draw 10–32A continuously for hours. Most household extension reels, plugs and sockets are not designed for high-current, long-duration loads. |
| Voltage Drop | The longer the cable, the higher the resistance. This creates heat, reduces charging efficiency and can trigger charger faults. |
| Outdoor Exposure | Most domestic extension leads are not IP-rated for rain, puddles or grit — leading to shock or corrosion hazards. |
| Insurance & Warranty Issues | Using non-compliant equipment can void home insurance, EV warranty and charger manufacturer support if damage occurs. |
Even Electrical Safety First, UK fire services and charger manufacturers strongly warn against using extension leads for EV charging.
✅ Safe and Legal Alternatives
✔ Use a longer, certified Type 2 charging cable (5m, 7.5m, 10m or 15m).
✔ Install a wall-mounted home charger (Mode 3) — the safest, fastest, fully BS 7671-compliant method.
✔ Use a “granny charger” (Mode 2) only occasionally, plugged directly into a fixed, RCD-protected socket — never into an extension lead.
Note: Some portable chargers limit themselves to around 10A for safety. This is best practice — but not a legal requirement — and helps reduce heat at the plug and socket.
💬 In Summary
We don’t sell EV extension cables because:
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❌ They are not permitted under IEC 61851-1, which explicitly bans cord extension sets.
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❌ They are not part of a compliant BS 7671 EV charging installation.
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❌ They fall outside the certified scope of IEC 62196 cable assemblies.
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⚠ They pose real safety, fire, insurance and warranty risks.
In short: the safest and legal solution is to use the correct-length Type 2 cable or an installed EV charge point — never an extension lead.
