Portable EV charging can provide useful flexibility for UK drivers who need a convenient way to add range at home or while travelling. However, it is important to understand how a portable charger differs from a dedicated wallbox, how long charging may take and whether the available electrical supply is suitable.
This practical guide explains the essentials without unnecessary technical jargon.
What is a portable Type 2 EV charger?
A portable EV charger connects a suitable UK three-pin socket to an electric vehicle or plug-in hybrid with a compatible Type 2 charging inlet.
Unlike a permanently installed wallbox, the charging equipment can be stored in the boot and used at an appropriate location when needed. An inline control unit manages communication between the electrical supply and the vehicle while displaying relevant charging information.
Type 2 is the standard connection used by most modern electric vehicles in the UK for AC charging. Compatibility should still be confirmed in the vehicle handbook before purchasing or connecting any charging equipment.
What does “up to 3.0kW” mean?
A UK electrical supply operates at approximately 230 volts. At a maximum setting of 13 amps, the theoretical charging power is close to 3.0kW.
The actual rate received by the vehicle can vary depending on:
the selected current setting;
the condition and capacity of the electrical circuit;
the vehicle’s onboard charging system;
battery temperature and state of charge;
protective controls within the vehicle and charging equipment.
“Up to 3.0kW” therefore describes the maximum rated output rather than a guaranteed continuous charging speed in every situation.
How long does portable EV charging take?
A simple estimate can be calculated by dividing the amount of energy required by the charging power.
At a nominal 3.0kW rate, before allowing for normal charging losses:
A 10kWh top-up takes approximately 3 hours 20 minutes.
A 20kWh top-up takes approximately 6 hours 40 minutes.
A 40kWh top-up takes approximately 13 hours 20 minutes.
Real charging sessions usually take longer. Selecting a lower current setting will also increase the charging time.
For many drivers, a portable charger is most useful for overnight top-ups, plug-in hybrids, lower daily mileage or as an additional charging option kept in the vehicle.
Portable charger or 7kW wallbox?
A portable charger and a fixed wallbox serve different purposes.
A portable 13A charger offers flexibility and can provide charging at up to approximately 3.0kW when connected to a suitable electrical supply. It is slower, but it can be stored and transported with the vehicle.
A dedicated home wallbox is permanently installed by a qualified professional and commonly provides around 7kW on a single-phase domestic supply. This makes it more suitable for frequent charging of larger EV batteries.
Charging at up to 22kW normally requires a three-phase electrical supply, suitable charging equipment and a vehicle capable of accepting that AC rate.
For regular long-term home charging, Electrical Safety First advises that a dedicated EV chargepoint is the safest option.
Is a portable charger suitable for every vehicle?
This model uses a Type 2 vehicle connector, which is widely used by modern electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids in the UK.
Before ordering, check:
that the vehicle has a compatible Type 2 AC charging inlet;
that the vehicle permits charging from a UK three-pin supply;
the maximum AC charging rate accepted by the vehicle;
any instructions or restrictions stated in the vehicle handbook.
Connector shape alone does not guarantee compatibility with every model or electrical arrangement.
Important checks before charging
EV charging places a substantial continuous load on an electrical circuit. A socket that operates smaller household appliances without difficulty is not automatically suitable for prolonged vehicle charging.
Before using a portable charger:
1. Use a correctly installed socket supplied by a suitable circuit. Electrical Safety First recommends a dedicated circuit and, ideally, an EV-rated socket outlet for slow EV charging.
2. Ask a registered electrician to inspect the socket and circuit if their condition or suitability is uncertain.
3. Connect the charger directly to the socket. Do not use domestic extension leads, multi-socket adaptors or daisy-chained cables.
4. Inspect the plug, socket, charging cable, inline control unit and Type 2 connector before every use. Stop using the equipment if anything appears damaged, loose, discoloured or unusually hot.
5. Select only a current setting supported by the electrical supply and permitted by the product and vehicle instructions. A lower setting does not replace an electrical inspection where one is required.
6. Position the cable neatly without creating a trip hazard or allowing it to cross a public pavement.
7. Keep all connections appropriately protected and never immerse the plug, control unit or connector in water.
8. Follow both the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions and the charger manual throughout the charging session.
Electrical Safety First’s appliance guidance lists slow EV charging as a load of up to 13A and 3,000W and advises against extension leads.
The Drip&Sip UK portable charging option
The Drip&Sip UK Portable Type 2 EV Charger is designed to provide a practical charging option for compatible electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids.
Key specifications include:
adjustable 6A, 8A, 10A and 13A settings;
rated output of up to 3.0kW;
220–240V UK electrical compatibility;
Type 2 vehicle connector;
UK three-pin plug;
5-metre charging cable;
digital charging display;
intelligent temperature monitoring;
IP66-rated charging unit.
The IP rating does not remove the need for a suitable socket, correct cable placement or compliance with the supplied operating instructions.
Before purchasing, confirm the vehicle connection and the suitability of the intended electrical supply.
Explore the Drip&Sip UK Portable Type 2 EV Charger
Frequently asked questions
Is this a 7kW charger?
No. This is a portable charger rated at up to 3.0kW. A 7kW home charger normally requires a dedicated fixed installation and a 32A single-phase supply.
Can I use an extension lead?
Domestic extension leads, multi-socket adaptors and daisy-chained leads should not be used for EV charging. The charger should be connected directly to an appropriate socket.
Will it fully charge an electric car overnight?
That depends on the battery size, starting charge level, selected current and vehicle. It may provide a useful overnight top-up, but charging a large battery from a low state of charge can take considerably longer.
Can it be used with a plug-in hybrid?
It may be suitable for a plug-in hybrid equipped with a compatible Type 2 AC inlet. Always check the vehicle handbook before use.
Final thoughts
A portable Type 2 charger can be a useful and flexible addition for the right driver, particularly for smaller overnight top-ups or as an additional charging option. Its slower charging rate should be considered alongside the condition of the electrical supply and the driver’s usual mileage.
Always prioritise compatibility, follow the supplied instructions and seek advice from a registered electrician whenever there is uncertainty about the socket or circuit.
This article provides general information and does not replace professional electrical advice or the instructions supplied by the vehicle and charging-equipment manufacturers.