4 min read · LANVOLT guide · Updated 2026-10-25
Tesla Charging in France and Belgium: Type E Sockets and the Schuko Adapter
Why Type E sockets in France and Belgium need a Schuko plug with an earth-pin hole, and how to check before ordering a Mobile Connector adapter.
| Type E (France, Belgium) | Type F / Schuko (Germany and others) | |
|---|---|---|
| Earth contact | Round pin in the socket | Metal clips on the sides |
| Voltage | 230 V, 50 Hz | 230 V, 50 Hz |
| Plug that fits both | Hybrid CEE 7/7 | Hybrid CEE 7/7 |
| Plain Schuko plug without hole | Does not fit | Fits |
What makes Type E different
Type E and Type F sockets take the same two round power pins. The difference is the earth: Type E has a round pin that sticks out of the socket and goes into a hole in the plug, while Type F (Schuko) uses metal clips on the sides. A plug without the hole cannot be pushed into a Type E socket.
The hybrid plug
Many Schuko plugs are a hybrid design, CEE 7/7, with both the side earth clips and a hole for the Type E pin. According to WorldStandards, that hybrid plug works in both socket types. This is why a Schuko Mobile Connector adapter can be used in France, as long as its plug is the hybrid kind.
How fast it charges
Tesla rates the Schuko adapter at 3 kW, about 19 km of range per hour. In practice the car sets a lower current on household sockets, and an older French or Belgian socket on a shared circuit may justify setting it lower still.
Check before you order
Look at the plug face in the product photos, or ask the seller. You want to see a hole between the two power pins. If you are not sure, send us a photo of your socket and we will tell you whether our Schuko adapter fits before you pay.
- Hole for the earth pin: fits Type E and Type F.
- No hole: Type F (Schuko) sockets only.
- Garage or outdoor socket: consider the IP44 version or a CEE blue socket installed by an electrician.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Tesla Schuko adapter work in France?
Tesla sells its Schuko adapter for standard sockets in most European countries. Any Schuko adapter fits French Type E sockets only if its plug has the hole for the socket's earth pin (hybrid CEE 7/7).
Why won't my Schuko plug go into a French socket?
French Type E sockets have a round earth pin. A plug without a matching hole cannot be inserted. You need a hybrid CEE 7/7 plug.
Which countries use Type E sockets?
According to WorldStandards, mainly France, Belgium, Poland, Slovakia and the Czech Republic, plus Tunisia and Morocco.
Is there a faster option in France?
Yes. A blue CEE socket installed by an electrician supports up to 3.7 kW on 16A and 7.4 kW on 32A by Tesla's figures, with the matching CEE blue adapter.
Sources: WorldStandards – Type E plugs and sockets; Tesla shop – Schuko Adapter; Tesla – Mobile Connector support page
Still unsure?
Send a clear outlet photo, the connector photo and your country. We will help you identify the right listed option before you order.
Ask product support