The landscape of electric vehicle charging has evolved dramatically, yet one of the most practical and cost-effective solutions remains surprisingly underappreciated. Whilst smart wallboxes dominate conversations about home EV infrastructure, 32A commando sockets offer a compelling alternative that combines industrial-grade reliability with significant cost savings. These robust charging solutions have served demanding industrial environments for decades, and they’re now finding a natural home in residential EV charging applications.
Understanding the technical specifications, installation requirements, and practical considerations of commando-based EV charging systems can save you hundreds of pounds whilst delivering charging performance that rivals dedicated wallbox units. For many drivers, particularly those who don’t require advanced smart features or who want maximum flexibility, a properly installed 32A commando socket represents the sweet spot between capability and value. This guide explores everything you need to know to make an informed decision about whether a commando-based charging solution is right for your needs.
Understanding 32A Three-Phase commando socket standards for EV charging
Commando sockets, formally known as industrial plugs and sockets conforming to the IEC 60309 standard, were never originally designed with electric vehicles in mind. These colour-coded connectors were developed to provide safe, reliable power distribution in demanding industrial settings where equipment might be exposed to dust, moisture, and mechanical stress. The robust design that makes them ideal for construction sites and marine applications translates exceptionally well to outdoor EV charging scenarios.
The nomenclature can initially seem confusing—you’ll encounter terms like “CEE plug,” “commando socket,” and “industrial connector” used interchangeably. Rest assured these all refer to the same IEC 60309 standard. The system uses colour coding to denote voltage and frequency: blue indicates 230V single-phase supplies (standard UK domestic voltage), whilst red denotes 400V three-phase supplies. For residential EV charging applications, you’ll almost always be working with blue 32A commando sockets unless you have a three-phase supply to your property.
IEC 60309 specifications and CEE form compliance
The IEC 60309 standard specifies precise mechanical and electrical requirements to ensure safety and interoperability. Each socket configuration has a unique pin arrangement that physically prevents connecting equipment to an incompatible voltage or frequency. The 32A single-phase blue commando plug features three pins arranged in a specific clock position—this keying system means you simply cannot insert a 16A plug into a 32A socket, or vice versa, providing an inherent safety feature.
CEE form compliance ensures that sockets and plugs from different manufacturers are mechanically compatible and meet minimum electrical performance standards. This standardisation means you’re not locked into a single supplier—you can purchase your commando cable from one manufacturer and your socket from another with complete confidence they’ll work together. The contacts are typically rated for at least 10,000 insertion cycles, far exceeding the lifecycle demands of daily EV charging.
Single-phase vs Three-Phase 32A commando configurations
Most UK domestic properties receive a single-phase 230V supply, which limits charging to approximately 7.4kW when using a 32A commando socket. This charging rate comfortably replenishes most EVs overnight—a typical 60kWh battery would charge from empty to full in around 8-9 hours. For the vast majority of drivers who cover fewer than 40 miles daily, this represents more than adequate charging capability.
Three-phase supplies, denoted by red commando sockets, are predominantly found in commercial premises and some newer residential developments. A three-phase 32A supply can deliver up to 22kW charging power, though your vehicle must have an onboard charger capable of accepting three-phase AC power. Vehicles like the Renault Zoe and certain Tesla models can exploit this higher power, but many EVs, particularly those from Asian manufacturers, are limited to single-phase charging regardless of the supply available. Installing a three-phase commando socket when your vehicle can’t utilise it offers no performance benefit.
IP44 and IP67 weather resistance ratings explained
The IP (Ingress Protection) rating system quantifies how effectively an electrical enclosure resists intrusion from solid objects an
The IP (Ingress Protection) rating system quantifies how effectively an electrical enclosure resists intrusion from solid objects and moisture. For 32A commando EV chargers used outdoors, you’ll most commonly see IP44 or IP67 ratings. An IP44-rated socket is protected against solid objects larger than 1mm and splashing water from any direction—adequate for most sheltered outdoor installations such as under a carport or eaves. IP67 takes things much further, offering complete protection against dust ingress and temporary immersion in water, which is ideal for exposed locations or where standing water is a concern.
In practical terms, IP44 is usually sufficient for domestic driveways where the socket is wall-mounted at a sensible height and not directly exposed to jet-washing or flooding. If your installation is in a harsher environment—say on a farm outbuilding, marina, or a low wall close to ground level—specifying IP67 hardware provides an extra margin of safety and longevity. When evaluating 32A commando EV chargers, pay close attention not only to the socket’s IP rating but also to that of any in-line EVSE control box, as water ingress into electronics is one of the most common causes of premature failure.
Maximum power output: 7.4kw vs 22kw charging capabilities
The headline numbers you’ll see associated with 32A commando EV chargers are 7.4kW and 22kW, and the distinction between them comes down to both supply type and vehicle capability. A 32A single-phase blue commando outlet at 230V can deliver up to 7.4kW (32A × 230V), which is the de facto standard for home AC charging in the UK. A dedicated overnight session at this rate will comfortably replenish even larger battery packs—for example, a 77kWh battery from 10% to 90% in roughly 8–9 hours, depending on efficiency.
By contrast, a three-phase 32A red commando outlet at 400V can supply up to 22kW (32A × 400V × √3). However, only EVs with an 11kW or 22kW three-phase onboard charger can take advantage of this. Many popular models, including several Korean and Japanese EVs, are limited to 7.4kW AC even when presented with a three-phase supply, so you’d see no benefit from a 22kW-capable commando circuit. Before investing in higher-capacity infrastructure, check your car’s maximum AC charge rate—installing a 22kW-ready 32A three-phase commando charger for a 7.4kW-only vehicle is like fitting a fire hose to a garden tap: the pipe is capable, but the supply limits the flow.
Mode 2 and mode 3 charging cable compatibility
When you start exploring 32A commando EV charging, you’ll quickly encounter the terms Mode 2 and Mode 3 charging. These don’t describe the plug shape, but rather the way the EV and the supply communicate and how safety functions are implemented. A typical “granny cable” with a three-pin plug is a Mode 2 device with an in-cable control box, whilst most public Type 2 chargepoints operate in Mode 3, with the EVSE electronics located in the post or wallbox. Commando-based setups sit in a grey area: the socket itself is just an outlet, but when combined with a portable EVSE or dedicated control unit, they operate in Mode 2 or Mode 3 depending on the hardware.
Understanding this distinction matters because you cannot safely charge an EV by simply wiring a Type 2 connector onto a commando plug. The missing piece is the EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) control unit that manages communication, switching, and protective functions. Whether you opt for a portable charger that plugs into a 32A commando socket or a fixed unit with a commando-style connection, you must ensure the system delivers proper Mode 2 or Mode 3 signalling to the vehicle’s onboard charger.
Type 2 to commando adaptor requirements
It can be tempting to buy a basic Type 2 to commando adaptor cable and treat your 32A industrial socket as an instant EV charger. However, a simple passive adaptor—commando plug on one end, Type 2 on the other, with no electronics in between—is not a safe or compliant solution. The Type 2 inlet on your car expects to communicate with EVSE that can provide control pilot and proximity pilot signals, handle contactor switching, and enforce current limits. A “dumb” adaptor cannot provide any of that.
A proper Type 2 to commando solution must incorporate EVSE electronics either in an in-line control box (for portable units) or within a wall-mounted enclosure that the commando socket feeds. These devices advertise a maximum current to the vehicle, monitor for faults, and only energise the pins once a safe connection is established. When shopping for a Type 2 to commando EV charger, look for explicit references to IEC 61851 compliance, maximum current ratings (typically 32A single-phase), and built-in RCD protection rather than relying on anonymous adaptors that merely change plug shapes.
EVSE communication protocols and proximity pilot signals
At the heart of both Mode 2 and Mode 3 EV charging is a simple but sophisticated signalling scheme defined by IEC 61851. Through the control pilot (CP) and proximity pilot (PP) lines in the Type 2 connector, the EVSE and vehicle negotiate current limits, detect connection status, and coordinate safe energisation of the contacts. Even a portable 32A commando EVSE with an in-line control box must implement this protocol correctly to avoid overheating cables or energising exposed pins.
The PP resistor within the plug tells the car what the cable itself is rated for—for example, whether it’s a 16A or 32A Type 2 lead—while the CP PWM signal communicates the maximum current that the EVSE will allow. This is why you can safely use a higher-rated 32A commando EV charger with a vehicle that only accepts 16A: the car will never draw more than is permitted by the pilot signal. When evaluating portable commando-based chargers, check that they advertise adjustable current settings (e.g. 10A/16A/20A/32A) and proper EVSE signalling, particularly if you plan to use older wiring or variable-capacity supplies.
RCD protection: 6ma DC leakage detection standards
Residual current protection is a critical part of any EV charging installation, including those based on 32A commando sockets. Modern EVs can produce small DC leakage currents on the earth conductor, which can saturate traditional RCDs (such as Type AC) and prevent them from tripping during a fault. To address this, both BS 7671 and IEC standards now require either a Type B RCD or a Type A RCD used in conjunction with a device that detects 6mA DC leakage for Mode 3 EV charging circuits.
Many higher-quality portable 32A commando EVSE units integrate 6mA DC detection and 30mA AC RCD functionality inside the control box, reducing the complexity of the fixed wiring. For fixed installations feeding a commando outlet intended for EV charging, your electrician may choose a dedicated RCBO with DC leakage capability or specify an EVSE that includes its own protection. Whichever route you choose, avoid older or generic RCDs that lack DC tolerance—cutting corners here is false economy when you consider the combination of outdoor use, high continuous currents, and user contact typical of EV charging.
Fixed installation vs portable 32A commando EVSE units
Once you’ve decided that a 32A commando EV charger suits your needs, the next question is whether to favour a fixed installation or a portable solution. Fixed installations typically involve a wall-mounted EVSE unit—or a commando socket feeding a dedicated EV charger—hard-wired back to your consumer unit on its own circuit. Portable commando chargers, by contrast, plug into an existing 32A industrial socket and can be moved between locations, much like a high-spec “granny cable” with more power.
Neither approach is universally better; it depends on how and where you charge. If you own your property, have off-street parking, and want a clean, always-ready setup, a fixed wall-mounted commando-based charger may be ideal. If you’re renting, frequently charge at different premises (for example, a second home, workplace, or campsite), or already have 32A commando outlets installed, a portable 32A EVSE offers maximum flexibility at a lower upfront cost.
Wall-mounted commando charging points: rolec WallPod and andersen A2
Several established manufacturers offer wall-mounted charging points that can be fed from, or incorporate, commando-style connections while delivering a more polished user experience than a bare socket. Rolec’s WallPod range, for example, includes variants designed for hard-wired installation as well as versions that can be supplied from a 32A commando outlet, providing integrated EVSE electronics, RCD protection, and optional smart features such as RFID access or app control. For many homeowners, the WallPod strikes a balance between industrial robustness and domestic-friendly aesthetics.
At the more premium end of the market, the Andersen A2 is often chosen for its discreet Scandinavian design and clever cable management. Whilst it is conventionally hard-wired rather than commando-fed, some installers will use an upstream commando connection for serviceability or where site constraints demand flexibility. If visual appeal matters—perhaps your charger will be in a prominent position on the front of your house—pairing a neat wall-mounted EVSE with a 32A commando infrastructure behind the scenes can give you industrial-grade versatility without compromising kerb appeal.
Portable chargers: EVSE adaptor cables with built-in RCDs
Portable 32A commando EV chargers have surged in popularity because they offer near wallbox-level performance with zero installation at locations that already have a suitable socket. These units typically comprise a blue 32A commando plug, an in-line control box housing the EVSE electronics and residual current protection, and a Type 2 connector for your vehicle. Many now feature LCD displays and adjustable current settings, allowing you to dial back the amperage on older circuits or when sharing power with other loads.
For frequent travellers, tradespeople, or anyone with access to 32A sockets at multiple sites, a quality portable commando EVSE can effectively replace a fixed home charger. However, it’s essential to choose a model that explicitly includes 30mA AC and 6mA DC RCD protection, over-temperature monitoring, and robust IP-rated housings. Cheaper units may omit some of these safeguards or provide limited documentation on compliance, which is a red flag when you’re drawing 7.4kW for hours at a time.
Tethered vs socketed commando charger configurations
Another key decision is whether you prefer a tethered configuration—where the Type 2 cable is permanently attached to the EVSE—or a socketed setup where you plug your own cable into the charger. In the commando context, a tethered portable unit has the advantage of convenience: you simply plug the commando end into the socket and the Type 2 into your car. A socketed wall-mounted EVSE, by contrast, presents a Type 2 outlet, and you use your existing cable between charger and vehicle.
Tethered arrangements tend to be quicker and easier to use day to day, especially in bad weather, but they tie you to one connector standard and cable length. Socketed units look tidier and are more futureproof: if connector standards evolve or you change vehicle, you simply swap the cable. If you’re leaning towards a 32A commando EV charger as a semi-permanent home solution, think carefully about whether you value grab-and-go simplicity (tethered) or maximum flexibility and a cleaner appearance (socketed).
BS 7671 18th edition wiring regulations for fixed installations
Any fixed 32A commando socket intended for EV charging must comply with the BS 7671 18th Edition wiring regulations, including the latest amendments related to EV supply equipment. These rules cover everything from cable sizing and protective devices to earthing arrangements and the need for isolation points. In particular, EV charging circuits usually require their own dedicated radial circuit, RCD/RCBO protection suitable for DC leakage, and consideration of PME (TN-C-S) earthing issues, which may necessitate additional protective devices or the use of a local earth rod.
From a homeowner’s perspective, the key takeaway is that installing a 32A commando outlet for EV charging isn’t as simple as adding another ring-main socket. Your electrician must assess maximum demand, apply diversity factors, and potentially notify the DNO (Distribution Network Operator) if your total load exceeds certain thresholds. Whilst this adds some complexity and cost up front, it ensures that your 32A commando EV charger operates safely alongside existing household loads and remains compliant with both current and foreseeable regulation updates.
Load balancing and electrical infrastructure requirements
Adding a 32A commando EV charger to a typical UK home means introducing a continuous 7.4kW load that may run for several hours overnight. On a property with an older 60A main fuse or heavily loaded circuits, this can push overall demand close to or beyond safe limits. Before installing a commando-based EV charger, your electrician should carry out a load assessment that takes into account electric showers, ovens, immersion heaters, heat pumps, and other high-demand appliances that might run simultaneously.
In some cases, the DNO will need to upgrade your main fuse to 80A or 100A—this is often free or low cost, but it can introduce lead times, so it’s wise to investigate early. More advanced EVSE units, including some that can be fed via 32A commando sockets, now offer dynamic load balancing features. These systems monitor total house consumption and automatically reduce EV charging current if the aggregate load approaches a predefined threshold, helping you stay within supply limits without manual intervention. If your household power usage is unpredictable, specifying a 32A commando EV charger with built-in load management can avoid nuisance trips and future-proof your installation as you add further electrical loads.
Leading 32A commando EV charger manufacturers and models
The growing popularity of commando-based EV charging has encouraged both established brands and newer specialists to offer robust 32A solutions. Rolec remains a key player with its WallPod and industrial socket ranges, frequently used in commercial and light-industrial settings where 32A blue and red outlets are commonplace. Their EV-specific models integrate the necessary EVSE electronics, while standard commando sockets can be paired with third-party portable chargers to create a flexible ecosystem.
Portable 32A commando EVSE units are offered by a wide array of manufacturers, from well-known EV charging brands through to industrial power specialists. When comparing models, look beyond headline power figures and focus on build quality, warranty support, certification (CE/UKCA, IEC 61851, BS EN 60309 compliance), and user features such as current adjustment, LCD status displays, and app connectivity. Whilst lesser-known imports can be tempting on price, opting for a reputable brand with clear documentation and UK-based support will generally pay off in reliability and peace of mind, especially if you rely on your commando charger for daily use.
Total cost of ownership: purchase price vs installation expenses
One of the main attractions of a 32A commando EV charger is perceived cost savings compared with a dedicated smart wallbox—but it’s important to look at the full picture. A quality portable 32A commando EVSE typically costs less than a premium wall-mounted unit, and if you already have a suitably located commando socket, you can be up and running with minimal extra spend. However, if a new 32A circuit and weatherproof socket are required, installation costs can approach those of a traditional wallbox, especially once BS 7671 compliance, RCD upgrades, and any DNO notifications are factored in.
Over the life of the system, you should also consider how smart features might influence running costs. A basic commando-based setup without scheduling or tariff integration may still work well if you manually plug in during off-peak times, but a smart charger that automatically tracks cheap-rate windows can recoup its price premium over a few years for high-mileage drivers. The sweet spot for many owners is a hybrid approach: a 32A commando socket installed to full EV standards, paired with a portable EVSE that offers at least basic scheduling and current adjustment. This combination keeps upfront costs sensible, preserves flexibility, and gives you options to upgrade or relocate components as your EV usage and household power demands evolve.