Non-EV Use: The standard adaptors can also be used to power anything that has a mains (UK 13A, Schuko 16A or CEE/Commando as applicable to the adaptor version) plug on it including ordinary domestic appliances, eg, hoovers, pressure washers, lawn mowers, 12V car battery trickle chargers/maintainers, portable mains supplies, etc.


The standard cable length for all adaptors other than ADP5, 32A CEE version is 2.4m in tuff, flexible, 2.5mm2, H07-RNF (rubber) cable, rated at 23A continuous for all versions except for the ADP5 which uses 6mm2 EV flex, rated at 50A continuous and whose standard length is 1m but is also available in 3m and 5m lengths.  Note that these current ratings are only included here to indicate that the adaptor cable specification significantly outperforms the current they will be required to carry in operation (see more on this later).


A 5m option for all adaptors is also available. If you want a longer or shorter cable please ask.  10m is the maximum, 0.3m the minimum (the former will be more expensive depending on which version is ordered but the latter will be the same price as the standard option).


These adaptors will handle up to a maximum of 32A (depending on type of adaptor ordered).  However, ultimately, the maximum power available to charge your EV will be dictated by your EV's on-board charger - but no standard EV will have a 13A plug if it is capable of drawing more than 10A because 10A is the maximum current you can draw from a standard UK 13A 3-pin socket *continuously* for hour upon hour without a danger of over-heating the socket/plug connection. 


All versions except ADP5 will instruct the EVSE to limit the charging current to 20A, maximum;  ADP5 has a 32A maximum current limit.  Again, note that these are *maximums*; the connected appliance will only draw what current it requires and as long as that is less than these maximums, there will not be an issue.  Simply connecting an appliance to a supply that is capable of supplying greater current than the appliance uses will not ‘force’ more current into the appliance!


Whilst charging, the standard adaptor's Type 2 plug is normally locked into the EVSE but the 3-pin mains plug is not, nor is the adaptor's mains socket water-proof (although the ‘MasterPlug’ socket option is ‘weather-proof’) so it should be ideally secured somewhere safe (eg locked in the boot/storage - to prevent unauthorized disconnection) and dry when in use.


5 different standard sockets are offered: standard 13A, MasterPlug 13A (IP54 - ‘dust protected, weather-proof’), EU Schuko and 16A & 32A CEE (blue commando, camping/caravanning, marine) - see photos.  Your choice of alternative socket can be requested at potentially extra cost.


How to use the adaptor:

Connection:

1/ Ensure the adaptor’s key switch is in the 'on' position (12 o’clock position/green dot).

2/ Connect the EV’s charging plug into the adaptor’s trailing socket.

3/ Insert the adaptor’s Type 2 plug into the EVSE socket (using RFID card or smartphone app to unlock it, etc, as required).

4/ RFID/smartphone-based EVSEs usually start automatically after a few seconds (or follow the EVSE’s network app or EVSE instructions) and EVSE status light will change colour indicating 'charging'.

Disconnection:

1/ Stop the charge (if it has not done so already automatically) by using the EV's controls. Do NOT disconnect the EV's plug from the adaptor's socket until the EV has stopped charging.

2/ If RFID/app-type EVSE: Use the app or RFID card to stop the charging. The Type 2 plug will be unlocked after a short delay.

3/ If 'manual' EVSE: Switch off the EVSE. This should unlock the Type 2 plug. If there is no switch, then operate the Type 2 key switch until the Type 2 plug is unlocked. Turn the switch back to the 'on' position ready for next use - and remove key!

Note: If your Type 2 plug will not release, first try pushing the Type 2 plug *into* the socket before pulling it out as the locking mechanism pin is prone to sticking and pushing the Type 2 plug in releases it.  If this fails and the Type 2 plug is still stuck in the EVSE’s socket, you must isolate the EVSE by contacting its operator or owner and arranging for them to turn off the EVSE at the mains, nearby isolator or consumer unit (fuse box).  In the event of a mains failure, normally the Type 2 plug will automatically be released.


Key Switch: Generally, you should not use the adaptor’s key switch with EVSEs as it can ‘confuse’ the EVSE.  Most EVSEs that use a smartphone app will unlock the plug in the normal course of charging i.e. either when the EV has finished charging or when you command the EVSE to stop charging via the smartphone app or by presenting the network’s RFID card.


e-bikes: The adaptors will also work to charge any e-bike from any socketed EV chargepoint (assuming you have the e-bike charger with you and it is fitted with a mains plug).


Zero Motorcycle Users:-  A variant can be ordered terminating in a C13 plug to replace the standard charging lead to permit charging the older non-Type 2 socket-equipped Zeros (which have a matching ‘C14’ charging socket - see pics below) from a standard ‘free-cable’ (ie non-tethered) charging point.  Please order the ADP13 (and extra length, if needed).  This is available in either single or dual formats (see single version photo below).


Please note that some early Zeros have a ‘tight’ C14 socket that has reduced clearance between the bikes frame and the C14 socket for the bulky part of the C13 plug and therefore the standard C13 plug will not fully plug into the bike’s socket (see photo below - far right).  These bikes require the ‘ADP13-S’ adaptor which uses a special moulded-on plug which is slightly smaller than the standard C13 plug.  This version will also fit the ‘standard’ Zero C14 socket but is more expensive.  Note that the ‘ADP13-S’ adaptor cable is available only at 3m long, maximum and uses 1.5mm2 PVC covered flex.  If you want it shorter, let me know on ordering.
























Twizy Users:- The standard UK Twizy plug has a rather large 13A mains plug strain relief moulding which interferes with the proper closing of the MasterPlug version (only) socket lid.  You can remove 2 segments of the strain relief (as shown here...)  using either a craft knife or snippers which will allow the lid to close easily.  Some customers have advised that the actual Twizy cable diameter is too large for the seal in the ADP2 socket.  f you find this is the case I can only suggest that you carefully (to avoid damaging the socket) ream out the seal (with the lid closed) with a suitably sized drill.  The standard Twizy plug will fit the Standard socket without modification.


Zappi EVSE Users:-

Apparently, the Zappi has a setting which can be removed that delays a charge by 10 minutes after connecting the EV.  If your adaptor does not immediately turn on the Zappi when connected with the adaptor’s key-switch in the ‘on’ (green dot/12 o’clock) position, please check this setting is set to ‘off’.


RV, Camper-van and Boat Users:-

These adaptors may also be used to charge large internal batteries in RVs, camper-vans and similar vehicles which typically have an externally mounted CEE (aka ‘blue commando’) socket usually rated at 16A (for ID purposes, these have an internal socket diameter of 44mm, 32A ones are 59mm) and which are normally used to plug into a convenient mains supply eg those provided at camping grounds, etc.   This is very similar to the idea of ‘shore power’ in the marine context where a boat moored at a pontoon would connect to the supply provided for this purpose to provide mains power to the boat whilst moored up.  Indeed, the ‘ADP’ range of adaptors could also be used in precisely this way for boats moored at locations which have EV charging facilities using the standard Type 2 socket (and tethered female Type 2 plugs) that are starting to appear.


Citroën Ami Users:-

To use your Ami’s standard charging cable with either a tethered Type 2 EVSE (chargepoint) or on the EV end of a standard Type 2 to Type 2 cable plugged into a standard Type 2 socketed EVSE, then you must also buy the ‘Short T2MP’ option.  This a special version of the Type 2 male plug that properly connects to the female Type 2 plug on the end of the tethered EVSE cable.


Technical Notes for DIY-built EVs:-

All the adaptors on this page are designed to communicate their maximum current-carrying capability to the chargepoint (EVSE) once connected.  In the case of UK and 16A CEE plug adaptor versions, this maximum current ‘agreement’ is set at 20A.  In the case of the 32A CEE version it is 32A. 


However, neither the EVSE nor the adaptor cable can control the maximum current that the EV’s charger will draw once connected.  Therefore, for any EV which uses any sort of ‘unofficial’ ie non-OEM charging system (eg a DIY arrangement), it is essential that the EV’s charging system design accounts for the maximum current it will draw from the EVSE.  Otherwise, at best the EVSE will go into fault mode and disconnect the EV and, at worst, the adaptor could dangerously overheat.


All standard EVs which were originally sold with tethered charging leads terminated with a standard domestic plug (of any country) will never draw more current than that standard plug was designed for.  Thus, EVs with UK 13A 3 pin plugs (BS1363) fitted will (should!) not draw more than 10A, those with 16A CEE plugs or European ‘Schuko’ plugs will not draw more than 15/16A and EVs with 32A charging leads will not draw more than 32A.


Tethered EVSEs:- 

Without modification, EVSEs with a tethered Type 2 female connector will not work with the standard ADP adaptors due to a deliberate plug design facet intended to specifically stop people from extending tethered cables with ‘free’ Type 2 to Type 2 cables designed for non-tethered chargepoints.  This includes ‘dual or triple-header’ ‘rapid’ charge-points including CCS types.  If you want compatibility with these charge-points too (AC only) you must add the ‘Short T2MP’ option to whatever adaptor cable you need.  Note that adaptors which have the ‘short T2MP’ option will not have a key-switch fitted because the switch is irrelevant due to the shorter T2MP being unable to lock into a standard ‘free-cable’ (ie socketed) charge-point.  The only difference between the standard Type 2 male plug and the short version is .... that the short version’s ‘nose’ (the black bit with the pins in it) is 12mm shorter... so please don’t ask for a picture of it!

This adaptor cable will allow any EV fitted with:-


1/  A standard, BS1363, UK, 13A, 3-pin mains charging plug, or

2/  A CEE (blue commando) 16A or 32A, 3 pin inlet, or

3/  A European Schuko plug...


... to charge at any ‘free cable’ (ie non-tethered or socketed) public or private Type 2 EVSE (chargepoint), eg...














NOTE:  These adaptors will permit ANY device fitted with a standard domestic 3-pin 13A plug to be powered from any standard UK EV chargepoint fitted with a Type 2 SOCKET (see examples above) or ANY international EV chargepoint that conforms to the IEC62196 standard (which essentially means any EV chargepoint).


I can also supply a version to work with tethered EVSEs - see ‘Tethered EVSEs’ section below.


Any socketed (ie non-tethered) Type 2 EVSE will work with the adaptor including the ChargeMaster (Polar/British Gas) units, PodPoint, ElektroBay, etc.  Therefore it is suited for charging a Twizy, Vectrix, SocoMax and Maeving, Silence, etc machines, or any e-scooter, bicycle or motorcycle which is supplied with a standard UK 3-pin 13 A plug for charging purposes.  EVs originally supplied with other types of charging cable mains plugs can also be catered for by choosing the appropriated adaptor version, eg Schuko (EU) or CEE (‘blue commando/camping/caravanning).


For information on where you can find EV chargepoints see www.zap-map.com.  This is probably the best and most up to date chargepoint finding website for the UK.  There is also an app available.  Zap-Map provides full location, charger network and location facilities and full chargepoint specification (how many chargepoints are available at each site, cost, payment method, output power, etc).


The only other thing needed to use a typical public chargepoint than the adaptor cable is the means to activate the chargepoint which is usually done via an app and/or RFID card.  I would advise sorting out your network needs well in advance of useing them.  Some chargepoints will also accept payment by credit card.

ADP1 - Type 2 to 13A, Commando/CEE

and EU(Schuko) Socket Adaptor Cables


All Prices Include VAT & UK Postage

Non-UK Orders must pay for additional postage

Overall dimensions (mm - closed and excluding cable strain relief sleeve - not visible in photo):-

73W x 140H x 60D

Socket Weight: 170g

Plug Thickness = 29mm max

... and about half the volume of the BG socket and twice the volume of the standard socket.

ADP1 - Standard Socket Option

See video (below) of the adaptor in operation.


This is quite a long page. So, please be sure to scroll down to see the rest, including prices and Ts & Cs.

ADP4 - 16A CEE Socket Option

ADP3 - Schuko Socket Option

ADP2 - MasterPlug Socket Option

Adaptor in use demonstration video (MasterPlug weatherproof socket version shown)

All versions are fitted with a key operated Manual Plug Release Switch

(The key can be removed in both ‘on’ and ‘off’ positions)

All standard versions are 2.4m long (except 32A ADP5 at 1m).  Longer versions can be ordered by adding a length option to your socket option (see below).


Contact Us...


Email: sales@EVBitz.uk  -  Landline: 01951 200197  -  Mob: 07788 138413 


2 Hall Cottage

Isle of Colonsay

Argyll

PA61 7YT

Scotland


UK Registered Private Limited Company

I am not VAT registered so ALL PRICES INCLUDE VAT!

ADP5 - 32A CEE Socket Option

All Versions In Stock

Prices include P&P

Standard adaptor length is 2.4m

(except for ADP5 & ADP13-S - see notes)

Free Royal Mail/ParcelForce postage is included** which usually takes 3-4 working days from the day of dispatch within mainland UK - but, due to our location, may take as much as 7 days.


* EVBitz.uk Ltd is not registered for VAT

** UK orders only - ex-UK orders must have extra postage added via the ‘Shipping Information’ page.

How to Order:- Say you want a standard socketed (ie not weather-proof), 5m long adaptor for a UK Renault Twizy... 

1/ Select ‘ADP1’ (plain, non-weatherproof 13A socket) from the ‘Socket Options’ drop-down and click on the ‘Add to Cart’ button below the menu.

2/  Return to this page from the Paypal ‘Your Shopping Cart’ web page.

3/ Select ‘ADP1, 2, 3, 4 & 13 - 5m...’ from the ‘Length Options’ drop-down menu and click on the ‘Add to Cart’ button below that menu.

4/  You will again be taken to the Paypal shopping cart web page where should now check out and pay. 

You will receive a Paypal notification by email indicating that your purchase has been successful.  You will then also get one from me.

(5/  Customers from outside the UK must also visit the ‘Shipping Information’ page and add appropriate extra postage.)

C13 Plug Option

C13 Plug Rated at 15A

using 2.5mm2 H07RN-F (rubber) cable.

Adaptor Socket Options:

Length Options:

‘Standard’ Zero C14 Socket

‘Tight’ Zero C14 Socket

Octopus Electricity Tariffs:

I have put this section in here as Octopus is becoming very popular: and quite rightly so with its very cheap electricity tariffs which, at the time of writing, offer electricity to domestic customers (with SMETS2 smart meters) as low as 7.5p/kWh (ie 7.5p/unit).  For a typical EV, this equates to a cost of driving 100 miles being approximately £2.15 (based on an EV that does ~3.5 miles to the kWh).


Octopus have 2 tariffs that are important here.  The first is ‘Octopus Go’ (OG).  Between the hours of 0030 and 0530, your electricity - whether you use it to charge an EV or not - is charged at 9p/kWh. Ideally, you would not only charge your EV during this time but also charge a battery so that you can use this very cheap electricity during the day and especially during the evening when electricity is at its most expensive but this is beyond the scope of this web page.


The other tariff of relevance is ‘Intelligent Octopus Go’ (IOG). This differs from OG by having slightly longer night rate period of 2330 to 0530 *and* has the ability to charge your EV at any time outside the fixed night-time period at the whim of Octopus.  This means that Octopus can sell cheap excess grid energy to help keep the grid balanced eg when there is a glut of renewables.  Again, if the cheap rate is ‘active’ you can not only charge your EV but also use the electricity for anything else in your household.  However, in order to use this tariff you must not only have an EV that is ‘compatible’ (ie one that Octopus can communicate with (via the interweb) in order to ‘organize’ charging when Octopus are offering it during the day) but also a compatible chargepoint.


So, if you have an EV that is not compatible with the IOG tariff and/or do not have a compatible chargepoint then you will only be able to use the OG tariff with the adaptors sold here.  The only way around this is to use an Ohme cable that is able to ‘communicate’ with Octopus in order to provide ad-hoc charging outside of the fixed night -time periods.


If you have any questions, please contact me using the information at the foot of this page.