Why a hybrid charges differently
A plug-in hybrid's battery is small, usually between 10 and 25 kWh. Its on-board charger almost always charges on a single phase, often at 3.7 kW and sometimes at 7.4 kW. A more powerful charging station or cable usually won't charge it any faster.
Example: a 15 kWh battery is full in about 4 hours at 3.7 kW. From a regular wall socket at 10A (2.3 kW) it takes about 6.5 hours. Both fit easily into one night.
At home: a portable charger is often enough
With a portable charger you charge from a wall socket, with no installation. You can also take it to family or on holiday. Do charge from a socket in good condition, ideally on a dedicated circuit; read how in Charging your car from a wall socket: is it safe?
A charging station is handy if you charge every day and don't want to get the cable out each time, or if a fully electric car is coming too. Not sure? Read Portable charger or charging station: which suits you?
On the road and at a charging station: a charging cable
At public charging stations and at a charging station with a socket you need a charging cable. For most hybrids that's a single-phase Type 2 charging cable: 16A if your car charges at 3.7 kW, 32A if it can take 7.4 kW. A three-phase cable works too and will suit a next car that can take more.
Most plug-in hybrids can't do rapid charging. They only charge with alternating current, at home or at a regular charging station.
Which plug does your hybrid have?
Almost all new plug-in hybrids have Type 2. Older models, such as the first Mitsubishi Outlander PHEVs, have Type 1; for those there is a Type 1 charging cable. The number plate check shows the plug, the power and the chargers and cables that go with your hybrid.