Tesla Mobile Connector (sometimes referred to as a UMC / Universal Mobile Connector) Explained including Gen 1 & Gen 2 differences

The Mobile Connector, previously known as the Universal Mobile Connector (UMC) is a backup cable that all Tesla drivers should carry with them at all times in their car, it allows you to plug into any domestic socket as well as more industrial or campsite style power, as well as connect to other charging cables for extended reach or charging in other EU countries. This visual guide just goes a bit further than Tesla’s support page.

Gen 1 Mobile Connectors

• Allows 2.3kW-7kW of power (or up to 11kW with the optional extra 16A 11kW Red commando adaptor p/n 1024110-02-A or 1024110-00-D, costs ~£101 inc VAT)
• Were standard on all UK cars until around January-May 2019
• Comes with a 13A 3-pin plug, 32A Blue Commando Socket and a Circular Bag
• User manual includes common faults / how to reset etc
• Rated as IP44 so it is protected against water splashing from any angle, if you plan to leave it outside in an area that you’re not sure will flood or not leave it elevated from the ground or within a Dribox or similar
• On the reverse of the main brick is a reset button should the connector fail, a full list of fault codes can be found within the user manual

Gen 2 Mobile Connectors

UPDATE: As of 2021 the 16A Blue Commando is now not included and is an optional extra

• Allows 2.3kW-3.7kW of power as standard (or up to 7kW with the optional extra 32A 7kW Blue commando adaptor p/n 1104948-00-B, costs £32 inv VAT)
• Standard on all UK cars from around May 2019
• Comes with a 13A 3-pin plug, 16A Blue Commando (UPDATE: As of 2021 the 16A Blue Commando is not included) and a Square Bag
• User manual (US version) includes common faults / how to reset etc
• Rated as IP44 so it is protected against water splashing from any angle, if you plan to leave it outside in an area that you’re not sure will flood or not leave it elevated from the ground or within a Dribox or similar
• On the reverse of the main brick is a reset button should the connector fail, a full list of fault codes can be found within the user manual

Can I extend the length of the UMC adapter?

The short answer is that it’s not advised but if required there are some safe options:

Note: It’s vitally important that if you extend a UMC cable you ensure that the fittings are suitably protected from the elements (e.g. within a Dribox or similar) or that they’re rated properly for outdoor use.

Secondary warning: It’s vitally important that you unwind any cables you use, cables that remain close to the other parts of a cable can overheat causing a fire, under no circumstances should you use a windable/reel like extension cable (unless it’s completely unwound and properly rated).

1. Option 1 is the easiest and simpliest but also the slowest option is to buy a 15-25M 2.5mm extension cable from someone like Industrial Extension Cables but using this method you also must buy a Dribox or similar to protect the extension cable + UMC joining point, a 330 box is ideal for this.
2. Using a company like Xavelec to buy a custom set of cables which allow you to extend the UMC by up to 20M at between 16A or greater. You can also rent a cable set as well

What other connectors are available?