The BMW i3 uses a Type 2 connection for AC charging, but its maximum charging rate depends on the generation of the car. All of the charging cables and portable chargers listed on this page are compatible with the BMW i3 and i3s. The right product therefore depends mainly on where you want to charge: a Type 2 wallbox or public charging point, a UK 3-pin socket, or a CEE / Commando industrial socket.
Early 60Ah BMW i3 models can charge from AC at up to 7.4kW single phase. BMW increased the AC capability with the 94Ah generation, which can use three-phase charging at up to 11kW. A charging cable rated above the maximum accepted by your particular i3 is still safe to use because the vehicle controls the power it draws.
Which Type 2 Charging Cable Is Best for the BMW i3?
If you charge from an untethered home wallbox or a public AC charging point with a Type 2 socket, you need a Type 2 to Type 2 charging cable.
For later BMW i3 models capable of 11kW three-phase AC charging, we recommend a 3 Phase 32A Type 2 charging cable. This allows the car to use three-phase charging where it is available and can also be used safely at lower-powered compatible charging points.
For an earlier 60Ah i3, or if you only expect to use a typical single-phase 7kW home wallbox, a 1 Phase 32A Type 2 cable can also be suitable. Choosing the higher-rated cable does not make the vehicle charge faster than its onboard charger permits, but it provides greater flexibility when using different charging points.
Can I Charge a BMW i3 from a 3-Pin Socket?
Yes. A BMW i3 can be charged from a suitable UK household socket using a Type 2 to 3-pin portable charger. Because the i3 has a smaller battery than many newer electric cars, 3-pin charging can be comparatively practical for occasional use and overnight top-ups, although it remains much slower than charging from a dedicated wallbox.
For regular 3-pin charging we recommend the adjustable 6A / 8A / 10A charger. Its adjustable current provides more flexibility and the charger includes AC and DC residual-current fault protection. A household socket used regularly for EV charging should be suitable for a continuous charging load.
Can I Charge a BMW i3 from a CEE / Commando Socket?
Yes. If you have access to a suitable industrial socket, the BMW i3 can be charged using one of our portable CEE chargers. These are useful at locations such as workshops, commercial premises, campsites or other sites already equipped with an industrial electrical supply.
Before choosing a charger, check the socket itself. Blue CEE sockets are normally single phase and red CEE sockets are normally three phase, while both are available in 16A and 32A versions. The plug on the charger must match the socket. The BMW i3 will still limit the charging power to the maximum supported by the particular vehicle.
BMW i3 Charging Speeds
BMW i3 version
AC charging capability
Suitable Type 2 cable choice
60Ah
Up to 7.4kW single phase
1 Phase 32A or higher-rated compatible Type 2 cable
94Ah
Up to 11kW three phase
3 Phase Type 2 cable recommended
120Ah / later i3
Check vehicle specification
3 Phase Type 2 cable provides the most flexibility
BMW stated that the 94Ah model could charge at up to 11kW AC and complete an AC charge in under three hours under suitable conditions. The earlier 60Ah version uses up to 7.4kW single-phase AC charging. Actual charging time depends on battery size, starting state of charge and the power available from the charging point.
Which BMW i3 Charger Should I Choose?
Home wallbox or public Type 2 charging point: choose a Type 2 to Type 2 charging cable.
UK household socket: choose an adjustable BMW i3 3-pin portable charger.
Industrial CEE / Commando socket: choose a portable charger that matches the socket’s phase and current rating.
For more detail on the different i3 generations, battery sizes and charging capabilities, see our BMW i3 charging guide.
Price range: £96.00 through £228.00 vat includedVIEW / BUY This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
