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Use our car reg compatibility checker to make sure your getting the right charger for you vehicle.
You will find UK listings claiming the BMW 225xe charges in about two hours on a 7 kW wallbox. That is arithmetically impossible, because the 225xe has a 3.7 kW single phase onboard charger. BMW confirmed the figure in writing when it launched the replacement, noting that maximum charging capacity was going up from 3.7 kW to 7.4 kW on the new car. The number matters commercially, because it means the cheapest cable we sell is the right one for this car and anything dearer is money spent on capability the 225xe cannot use.
Every BMW 225xe Active Tourer uses a Type 2 to Type 2 Charging Cable. BMW puts the socket under a separate flap on the front left wing, ahead of the driver's door, and the car has no DC rapid charging at all, so a Type 2 cable is the only way to charge it anywhere.
Buy the 16A version. At 3.7 kW the car is already at its ceiling on a 16A lead, so the 32A single phase cable charges it no faster and the 22 kW three phase cable is money wasted twice over: the 225xe cannot use three phases, and a British house cannot supply them. This is one of the few pages on this site where we will tell you plainly not to buy the more expensive cable.
The battery changed during the car's life and the charger did not. Cars up to 2019 carry 7.6 kWh gross, sometimes quoted as 7.7, of which 5.8 kWh is usable. From August 2019 the pack grew to 10.0 kWh gross and 8.8 kWh usable. Owners often ask how to tell which one they have, and for cable purposes the reassuring answer is that it does not matter, because both charge at 3.7 kW and both take the same lead.
A domestic socket lead is genuinely practical on a battery this small. Our Type 2 to 3-Pin Charging Cable draws 2.3 kW from an ordinary 13 amp outlet and fills the later 225xe in about 4 hours 15 minutes, or the earlier car in 2 hours 45 minutes. That is a complete overnight charge from a normal socket, which makes it a real second method rather than a fallback. Our guide explains what a household socket delivers.
If your car is the newer 2 Series Active Tourer plug-in hybrid, badged 225e xDrive or 230e and sold from 2022, none of these figures apply. That car has a 7.4 kW charger and a 16.3 kWh battery, so it wants the 32A single phase cable instead. Other BMW plug-in hybrids are covered on the BMW 330e charging cable page, and everything for the marque is listed in BMW EV charging cables.
All of our leads are built to IEC 62196 Type 2 with CE certification, rated from -30C to +50C, or +60C for the 3-pin. The Type 2 to Type 2 cables are sealed to IP55 and the Type 2 to 3-Pin to IP67. Every one carries a 2 year manufacturer's warranty, with free next working day UK delivery. Our IP ratings guide explains what those sealing figures keep out.
Maximum onboard AC charging speed: 3.7 kW, single phase
| Cable Type | Max Charge Rate | Empty to Full | Range Added Per Hour | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type 2 - 1-Phase, 16A (5m / 10m) | 3.7 kW | 2 hours 45 mins | approx. 14 miles | Best Fit, and the cheapest option |
| Type 2 - 1-Phase, 32A (5m / 10m) | 3.7 kW (car limited) | 2 hours 45 mins | approx. 14 miles | No faster than the 16A here |
| Type 2 - 3-Phase, 32A (5m / 10m) | 3.7 kW (car limited) | 2 hours 45 mins | approx. 14 miles | Money wasted on this car |
| Type 2 to 3-Pin (5m / 10m) | 2.3 kW | 4 hours 15 mins | approx. 9 miles | A full charge from a house socket |
Maximum onboard AC charging speed: 3.7 kW, single phase
| Cable Type | Max Charge Rate | Empty to Full | Range Added Per Hour | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type 2 - 1-Phase, 16A (5m / 10m) | 3.7 kW | 1 hour 45 mins | approx. 16 miles | Best Fit, and the cheapest option |
| Type 2 - 1-Phase, 32A (5m / 10m) | 3.7 kW (car limited) | 1 hour 45 mins | approx. 16 miles | No faster than the 16A here |
| Type 2 - 3-Phase, 32A (5m / 10m) | 3.7 kW (car limited) | 1 hour 45 mins | approx. 16 miles | Money wasted on this car |
| Type 2 to 3-Pin (5m / 10m) | 2.3 kW | 2 hours 45 mins | approx. 10 miles | A full charge from a house socket |
The 25 mile figure for the earlier car is an NEDC rating, because it predates WLTP testing, so real world electric range sits below it. The facelift in autumn 2018 and the battery change in August 2019 were separate events, which means a 2018 facelifted car still has the smaller pack. Cold weather cuts the miles per hour on either version.
We pride ourselves on the quality of our cables. Every cable comes with a 2 year manufacturer's warranty, and the jacket will survive being driven over, though we would rather you did not make a habit of it.
Protection against pressure
Our cables are safe to use whatever the weather. Type 2 to Type 2 cables are IP55 rated, CE marked, and work from -30°C to +50°C. Type 2 to 3 pin cables are IP67 rated, CE marked and work from -30°C to +60°C.
Protection against temperature
Our cables fit any electric car or plug-in hybrid with a Type 2 inlet, including Audi, BMW, Volvo, Mini, Mercedes, Kia, Hyundai, Volkswagen, Smart and Toyota. Use our car reg checker to confirm your car.
Compatible with all Type 2 cars
A BMW 225xe needs a Type 2 to Type 2 Charging Cable, and the 16A version is all it can use. The car's onboard charger is limited to 3.7 kW, so a 32A cable delivers exactly the same speed for more money.
No, and this is the most common mistake made about this car. Several UK listings quote a two hour charge on a 7 kW wallbox, which cannot happen on a 3.7 kW onboard charger. BMW itself put the figure on record when it launched the successor, describing the increase from 3.7 kW to 7.4 kW as a change.
No. The 2019 upgrade from 7.6 kWh to 10.0 kWh left the 3.7 kW charger untouched, so the larger battery simply takes longer, about 2 hours 45 minutes rather than 1 hour 45 minutes. Both take the same cable, which is why you do not need to identify your battery before ordering.
No, for two separate reasons. The 225xe cannot draw more than 3.7 kW from any supply, and a British house provides a single phase in any case. There is no site anywhere in the country where that cable would charge this car faster than the 16A one.
Yes, and on this car it works properly. A 3-pin lead fills the later 10.0 kWh battery in about 4 hours 15 minutes and the earlier one in 2 hours 45 minutes, so an ordinary household socket gives you a complete charge overnight with hours to spare.
The flap is on the front left wing of a car about 4.35 metres long, so 5m reaches when the wallbox is towards the front of the drive on the passenger side. Park nose out, or mount the unit at the far end, and the lead has to come round the car, which is where the 10m earns its place.
Showing both cable types. Choose a cable type above and this section will show just that specification.
Showing the specification for the cable type you have selected. Compare both cable types.
| Type 2 to Type 2 | Type 2 to 3 pin | |
|---|---|---|
| Charges from | A home wallbox or a public charge point | Any standard UK 3 pin socket, no wallbox needed |
| Max power | 3.7 kW at 16A, 7.4 kW at 32A, 22 kW on three phase | 2.4 kW |
| Speed at home | 7.4 kW on a 32A cable. UK homes are single phase, so an 11 kW or 22 kW car still draws 7.4 kW | 2.4 kW |
| Range per hour | About 12 miles at 3.7 kW, 25 miles at 7.4 kW | About 8 miles |
| Weatherproof rating | IP55 | IP67 |
| Temperature | -30°C to +50°C | -30°C to +60°C |
| Built to | IEC 62196-2:2016 2-IIb | IEC 62752:2016 / COR1:2019 |
| Certified | CE | CE |
| Best for | Your everyday charging cable | Backup, and away from home where there is no wallbox |
| Choose this | Select Type 2 to Type 2 for the BMW 225xe | Select Type 2 to 3 pin for the BMW 225xe |
| Full range | All Type 2 to Type 2 cables | All Type 2 to 3 pin cables |
| Connector type | Type 2 to Type 2 (IEC 62196-2:2016 2-IIb, Mennekes) |
| Rated current | 16A or 32A single phase, or 32A three phase |
| Max power | 3.7 kW at 16A, 7.4 kW at 32A, 22 kW on three phase |
| Speed at home | 7.4 kW. UK homes are single phase, so an 11 kW or 22 kW car still draws 7.4 kW |
| Range per hour | About 12 miles at 3.7 kW, 25 miles at 7.4 kW |
| Slower supplies | Fine. Charging runs at the lowest limit of the car, the charge point and the cable, so a 32A cable works normally on a 16A supply |
| Voltage | AC 250V single phase, AC 400V three phase, 50Hz |
| Signal current | 2A at 30V |
| Full range | All Type 2 to Type 2 cables |
| Lengths | 5m, 10m, 15m, 20m |
| Conductors | 16A: 3 x 2.5mm² plus 2 x 0.5mm² 32A single phase: 3 x 6mm² plus 2 x 0.5mm² 32A three phase: 5 x 6mm² plus 1 x 0.5mm² |
| Insulation | XLPO |
| Sheath | TPU |
| Shell | Flame retardant thermoplastic, UL94-V0 |
| Pins | Copper alloy, silver plated |
| Colour | Black cable, green and black connectors |
| Weatherproof rating | IP55 in use |
| Temperature | -30°C to +50°C |
| Mechanical life | Over 1,000 connections |
| Impact | Survives a 1m drop and a 2 tonne vehicle driving over it |
| Plug force | Under 100N |
| Insulation resistance | Over 1,000 MΩ at DC 500V |
| Withstand voltage | 2,500V |
| Contact impedance | 0.5 mΩ maximum |
| Pin temp rise | Under 50K |
| Built to | IEC 62196-2:2016 2-IIb |
| Certified | CE |
| Connector type | Type 2 to 3 pin, BS1363 13A plug |
| Socket needed | Any standard UK 3 pin socket. No wallbox needed |
| Max power | 2.4 kW |
| Current | 6A to 13A, set on the control box |
| Voltage | 230V AC, 50Hz |
| Range per hour | About 8 miles |
| Overnight | About 100 miles in 12 hours |
| Full range | All Type 2 to 3 pin cables |
| Weatherproof rating | IP67 |
| RCD | Built in, Type B |
| Protection | Over and under voltage, overload, short circuit, earth leakage, over temperature and lightning surge |
| Built to | IEC 62752:2016 / COR1:2019 |
| Certified | CE |
| Display | OLED screen: charging time, energy used, live voltage, current and power, and lifetime total |
| Controls | Touch key, LED status light, adjustable current, delay timer |
| Box size | 200 x 90 x 52 mm |
| Weight | Up to 2.1 kg |
| Cooling | Natural air |
| Standby power | Under 0.5 W |
| Connectivity | None. No WiFi, Bluetooth, 4G or Ethernet |
| Lengths | 5m, 10m, 15m |
| Temperature | -30°C to +60°C |
| Humidity | Up to 95% |
| Max altitude | 2,000m |
| Materials | Tempered glass and PC control box |
| Colour | Black |
| In the box | Charging cable only. The premium storage carry bag is sold separately |
| Warranty | 2 year warranty |
| Delivery | Free next working day UK delivery |
The 225xe is an Active Tourer only. The 2 Series Coupe and Gran Coupe do not plug in. Trim level makes no difference to charging.
| Badge | Years | Battery | Connector | Max AC charge speed | Cable we recommend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 225xe Active Tourer | 2016 to 2019 | 7.6 kWh (5.8 usable) | Type 2 | Not published by BMW, so we do not quote a figure. Fills overnight on any wallbox. | Type 2 to Type 2, 16A |
| 225xe Active Tourer | 2019 to 2021 | 10 kWh (8.8 usable) | Type 2 | Not published by BMW, so we do not quote a figure. Fills overnight on any wallbox. | Type 2 to Type 2, 16A |
| 230e xDrive Active Tourer (the replacement) | 2022 onwards | 16.3 kWh (14.9 usable) | Type 2 | 7.4 kW | Type 2 to Type 2, 32A |
| 218i, 220i, 220d Active Tourer | Any year | None | No charging port | Does not plug in | No cable needed |
Free Next Working Day Delivery
Use our car reg compatibility checker to make sure your getting the right charger for you vehicle.
Cable Type:
How do I Choose?The cable connection depends on what connection type your car accepts. If you don't know, use our handy car reg checker.
Cable Length:
Sizing guideWe offer different length cables to suit your needs, whether you park next to your charger at home or at the office.
Rated Power (Charge Speed):
How do I Choose?Rated power is the fastest the cable can charge. Match it to your car and your charge point. A higher rated cable still works at every lower speed.
Accessory Add-Ons
We offer a range of products to help store and transport your charging cable. Choose from the accessories below:
A charging cable that connects electric vehicles (EVs) with a Type 2 connector to charging points is also equipped with a Type 2 socket. It supports faster charging speeds and is commonly used across Europe for EVs with this standard connection.
This cable allows electric vehicles with a Type 2 socket to charge from a standard UK 3-pin domestic outlet. It provides a slower charge but is useful for home or emergency charging when dedicated charging stations aren't available.
A cable used to extend the reach of a Type 2 charging cable. It's helpful when the existing cable is too short to connect an electric vehicle to the charging point, providing more flexibility in parking.
A fixed charging cable attached to a charging point, designed for electric vehicles with a Type 2 socket. The tethered design eliminates the need to carry a separate cable, offering convenience for regular charging at home or work.
A charging cable that connects electric vehicles with a Type 1 socket to charging points equipped with a Type 2 outlet. This allows EVs with the older Type 1 standard to use more modern charging infrastructure.
This cable enables electric vehicles with a Type 1 connector to charge from a standard UK 3-pin household outlet. It's suitable for slower charging at home when dedicated EV charging points aren't accessible.
A 5M charging cable is the shortest length that we offer. It is a great option if you can park close to the charge point and do not need much length to reach your car.
A 10M charging cable is the most popular length. It allows you to have enough flexibility whilst still being easy enough to move. This is a great option if you cannot park close to the electricity supply.
A 15M charging cable is a great choice if you need some extra flexibility, i.e. get past another car or reach the other end of a driveway. The length of the cable does not affect the charging speed.
A 20M charging cable is the longest cable that we currently offer. 20M reaches the vast majority of locations where you would want to charge your car. Always use one continuous cable. Never join two charging cables together and never charge through an extension lead, because the join is where heat builds up.
The choice if you will charge from a standard UK 3 pin socket. It runs at the most the socket can safely supply, and the control box lets you turn the current down for a slower, gentler charge overnight or on an older circuit.
A 16amp cable will be able to charge at 3.7kW. This is the cheapest product if your car's max charge speed is 3.7kW. If you have two electric cars or are looking to purchase another it might be worth considering a faster charging cable as this could limit charge speeds moving forward.
A 32amp charging cable will be able to charge at 7.4kW, which is the most a single phase UK home supply can deliver. A 32amp cable also charges at every lower speed (for example 16amp, 3.7kW), so it is the right choice if your home charge point is 7.4kW or you mostly charge at home.
A 32amp 3-phase charging cable will be able to charge at all speeds up to 22kW, so the cable never limits your charge speed at home or in public. It is also capable of charging at all lower charge speeds.
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