Tesla Mobile Connector, also known as the “Universal Mobile Connector” or “UMC” is an essential tool for charging your car on the Go. But Tesla has two popular Mobile Connector options: Gen 1 and Gen 2. Thus, which one should you choose and why?
Between tesla mobile connector gen 1 vs gen 2, you should choose the one that best matches your needs and tastes. This article will actually help you in making the right choice!
Tesla Mobile Connector Gen 1 Vs Gen 2: Quick Look
| Key Facts | Gen 1 | Gen 2 |
| Required Cable Length: | 20 feet | 20/24 feet |
| Included With: | A cable, a 13A 3-pin plug, a 32A Blue Commando Socket, and a convenient storage bag. | A connector cable, NEMA 5-15 adapter, NEMA 14-50 adapter, and a storage pouch. |
| Charging Speed: | Add standard 2.3 to 3.7kW. But it can boost that to 11kW with an optional 16A (11kW) Red commando converter. | But it can boost up to 7kW with an extra 32A (7kW) Blue commando adaptor. |
| Compatibility: | Models that were produced before 2018 can support Gen 1. | All Models produced after 2018 support Gen 2. |
| Availability: | Gen 1 used to come as a standard accessory with all Tesla EVs. But Tesla discontinued Gen 1 after 2018. | Initially, Gen 2 was provided as a standard accessory too. But since 2022, the Gen 2 has become an optional accessory that owners have to buy separately. |
What Are The Tesla Mobile Connector Gen 1 And Gen 2
The Gen 1:
This is the first-generation Mobile Connector or portable charging option, which was launched in 2012. This worked for all Tesla Model X, Model 3, and Model S models released between 2012 and 2017.
The Gen 1 connectors utilize the “Trickle Charging” technology where standard 110/120-volt power outlets are used and then connected to a dedicated 240 Volt circuit.
The Gen 2:
Tesla released the improved Universal Mobile Connector Generation 2 (UMC-Gen 2) in 2018. This Mobile connector is compatible with All Tesla Model 3, Model S, Model X, and Model Y produced after 2018.
The Gen 2 Connector includes an in-built adapter and accepts BS1363 adapters as well as higher power Blue adapters such as the IEC 60309 (16A/32A).
The Key Differences Between Tesla Mobile Connector Gen 1 Vs Gen 2
Compare the main differences of Tesla’s Mobile Connector Generation 1 and 2. So you can choose which one best meets your needs and preferences_
1. Steady Vs. Higher Accelerated Charging Speed:
The first-generation Tesla Mobile Connector offered a steady charging rate of 7.7 kW for Tesla’s Model 3 but 11.5 kW for its Model S and Model X. The Gen 1 also provides a charging rate of up to 10 kW when connected to a 240V outlet.
However, the Gen 1 connector cannot take full advantage of the higher charging speeds for all Tesla Models, especially the models that were released after Tesla launched its Gen 2.
Tesla’s second-generation Mobile Connector took charging to new heights. Even though it can deliver up to 32 amps when connected to a 240V outlet, you can still get up to 16.5 kW for the Model S and Model X, while a remarkable charging rate of 11.5 kW for Tesla’s Model 3 the Gen 2.
This significantly reduces the charging time and allows you to hit the road faster.
Even though Gen 2 has a lower power output compared to Gen 1, it is still compatible with all Tesla vehicles and can efficiently charge most models.
2. Compact & Portable Vs. Streamlined & Practical:
Tesla’s Gen 1 has a compact design that makes it easy to carry around in your Tesla.
The Gen 1 comes with a 13A 3-pin plug, a 32A Blue Commando Socket, and a convenient storage bag.
That means you can easily keep all the adapters and cables organized inside the bag during travel. This portability is ideal for Tesla owners who frequently need to charge on the go.
On the other hand, the Gen 2 features a more streamlined design and eliminates the need for adapters when charging from a NEMA 14-50 power outlet or a standard J1772 charging station.
This is a more practical solution and reduces the potential for misplacing or losing adapters.
Initially, Tesla wasn’t providing storage bad with the Gen 2 connector, but the current Gen 2 Universal Mobile Connector comes with a Cable organizing bag and a standard household outlet compatible adapter.
Thus, Gen 2 seems a more practical and convenient charging solution than the first-generation connector.
3. Higher Power Rating Vs. Enhanced Safety & Security:
The Gen 1 Tesla Mobile Connector is rated for 40 Amps, while the Gen 2 is rated for 32 Amps. This allows the Gen 1 connector to charge faster, but this connector tends to overheat the adapter or plug connected to the circuit. That also increases the risk of further accidents.
On the contrary, the Gen 2 connector is designed to lower the charge current if the plug is overheating to enhance safety. Plus, the Gen 2 adapters are equipped with a temperature sensor at the bottom end of the plug.
This sensor allows the Gen 2 to monitor if the plug or power outlet is getting hot so that it can adjust the charging current accordingly to prevent overheating.
Unlike Gen 1, the Gen 2 comes with a more advanced feature that can prevent overheating during charging to enhance overall safety.
4. Simple & User-friendly Vs. More Reliable & Convenient:
Tesla’s first-generation Connector was designed with simplicity in mind. The Gen 1 did not come with any special feature that can add up to more than the standard.
But its plug-and-play functionality made it user-friendly and delivered seamless charging experiences, which was suitable for the first generation or older Tesla Models.
Well, there is no complicated installation process related to Gen 2 either. But Tesla’s dedication to user experience shines through in the second-generation Mobile Connector. With the Gen 2 connector, Tesla introduced a magnetic holder for the adapter that improves cable management during charging sessions.
The Gen 2 boasts more adapters than its predecessor and includes a plastic handle.
The improvement is particularly evident in the connector for the wall plug. Because the Gen 2 connector is way better for the Wall connectivity than the Gen 1 connector.
Those additional benefits that Gen 2 offers make the connector more reliable and durable than Gen 1 in various ways.
Related Post: Differences Between Tesla Mobile Connector vs Wall Connector
Tesla’s Mobile Connector Gen 1 Or Gen 2: Which Version Is Right for You?
When comparing the two, Gen 1 has a higher power rating of 40 Amps than Gen 2’s 32 Amps. It implies that while Gen 1 may charge your car faster than Gen 2, it is unlikely to be as effective with today’s chargers as it once was.
The Gen 2 has been designed to lower the charge current to prevent the adapter or plug from overheating. But this additional safety does not come with Gen 1. It also has a temperature sensor, which detects and adjusts if the plug or outlet becomes too hot.
Besides that, Tesla no longer produces Models that will support Gen 1 connectors and all new Tesla Models only support Gen 2 Mobile Connectors.
Therefore, the Gen 1 is no longer an option to choose for modern Tesla owners and the only practical option they can now choose is the Gen 2 connector.
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
What safety enhancements were made in Gen 2 UMC?
Tesla introduced several safety enhancements with its Gen 2 UMC, including:
- Thermal management systems that prevent overheating,
- Improved insulation that prevents electric shock, and
- Sensors to detect faulty connections or issues during charging.
Can Gen 1 be used with newer Tesla models?
While Gen 1 can technically be used with newer Tesla models, it is not recommended because it will not work as it is supposed to and you may not get the same result with the new Models.
Are Gen 1 and Gen 2 connectors both compatible with all Tesla Models?
No. Gen 1 connectors are compatible with older Models especially those that were released before 2018. But all the Models released after 2018 support Gen 2 connectors.
