How to charge your EV hassle-free in Europe

The current state of charging infrastructure in Europe

Europe has a vast charging network, ranging from slow to ultra-rapid charging stations 🔋. These infrastructures enable electric vehicle (EV) drivers to charge their vehicles easily, whether in town or on the motorway.

Charging stations in France 🇫🇷

According to Avere-France, France has around 140,000 public charging points, spread throughout the country. Major cities such as Paris, Lyon and Marseille have a large number of charging points, thanks in particular to networks such as Ionity, Fastned, Electra and Tesla Superchargers.

There are various payment methods at charging stations, but the most practical solution is to use multi-network cards such as the Chargemap Pass. The Chargemap Pass offers exceptional flexibility and ease of use, providing access to a multitude of networks across Europe. It simplifies payment management and means you don’t have to juggle several cards. Alternatively, you can also use cards specific to each network, mobile payments or bankcard payments. These options offer great flexibility to drivers, by simplifying their charging experience and they meet the needs of all users.

In addition, France has introduced incentive policies to encourage the installation of charging points. Subsidies are available for businesses and individuals wishing to install charging stations, and are contributing to the rapid expansion of the network. France also offers specific infrastructure for electric vehicles, such as parking spaces reserved for charging points, often free of charge or at a reduced price. This underlines France’s drive to support and develop electric mobility!

Charging stations in Germany 🇩🇪

On 1 March 2024, Germany had 103,226 charging points and 25,291 fast-charging points. (Source: Bundesnetzagentur)
Major cities such as Berlin, Munich and Hamburg are well served. The main networks include EnBW, Fastned and BP Europa SE. 

The German market is diversified, with rapid and ultra-rapid charging points in petrol stations and shopping centres. For example, you can enjoy charging your electric vehicle while exploring Germany’s famous Christmas markets in winter. This makes long journeys easier if you’re going on an EV weekend trip, for example. An experience that combines pleasure and efficiency!

German initiatives also include the promotion of hydrogen charging stations, which complement the range of fuel cell electric vehicles on offer. Germany is investing heavily in charging technologies, with pilot projects in induction charging and electrified motorways for electric trucks.

Charging points in Belgium 🇧🇪

By July 2024, Belgium had more than 20,000 charging points available, mainly in major cities. (Source: Belgian Mobility Dashboard)

Networks such as Fastned, Electra, DATS24 and Lidl dominate the market, offering recharging solutions for all types of electric vehicle.

Payment can always be made via a multi-network card for greater convenience, specific cards or mobile apps.

Belgium also boasts a network of rapid and reliable charging stations. Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent are the best-equipped cities, with initiatives to install charging stations in residential areas and shopping centres. In fact, the region around Brussels is so well equipped that there are around 80 charging points every 100km! What’s more, the Belgian government is subsidising the installation of workplace charging points to encourage the use of electric vehicle fleets.

Charging points in Switzerland 🇨🇭

Would you like to find reliable charging points for your electric car in Europe? Then choose Switzerland! At the end of July 2024, Switzerland had 13,800 charging points! (Source: Swiss Federal Office of Energy SFOE)

With its dense, high-quality network of chargepoints, especially in urban areas such as Zurich and Geneve. Users can find charging points from a range of operators, including Evpass, Tesla Superchargers and Swisscharge, all compatible with the Chargemap Pass.

Switzerland is known for its picturesque landscapes, and charging stations are often located close to tourist spots. This is the perfect opportunity to top up while admiring the snow-capped mountains 🏔️ !

Switzerland stands out for its use of renewable energy to power the charging points, reducing the overall carbon footprint.

The country has also invested in rapid-charging stations in mountainous regions, facilitating access to ski resorts. Swiss charging points are renowned for their reliability and rigorous maintenance. Travellers can also take advantage of charging points in hotels, making EV holidays even more comfortable.

Charging stations in Italy 🇮🇹

Italy is catching up fast, with infrastructure booming, particularly in major cities such as Milan and Rome. Networks such as Enel X, Free-To-X and BeCharge are playing a key role in this expansion. 

At 31 March 2024, there were 54,164 charging points for electric cars in the country. (Source: InsideEVs)

In Italy, there are a growing number of initiatives to install charging points in small towns and tourist areas. The northern regions, such as Lombardy and Piedmont, are the most advanced in terms of charging. The country is also developing rapid-charging infrastructure on motorways, to make long journeys easier. 

Italy is also banking on the integration of charging points with public transport systems, offering a seamless transition between means of transport.

Charging points in the UK 🇬🇧

If we mean by Europe, the geographical entity, well then let’s talk about the United Kingdom! It is a key player in the European charging network. At the end of July 2024, there were 66,779 charging points in 34,570 charging zones across the country. (Source: ZapMap)

The country is well equipped to welcome EV drivers, particularly in cities like London, Manchester and Birmingham. Networks such as BP Pulse, Pod Point and Shell Recharge are dominant, offering practical and varied solutions.

The UK also stands out for its support for recharging infrastructure for taxis. In London, for example, LEVC electric taxis now make up 50% of the fleet!

In addition, government initiatives subsidise the installation of charging points in homes and public places, increasing accessibility for all.

How to find charging points in Europe?

If you drive an EV, the Chargemap app is your indispensable ally! It allows you to locate charging points in real time and obtain information on the availability of connectors. Filters can be used to sort charging points by connector type, power rating and, above all, price. These features make it much easier to plan your journeys. They give you a clear view of the charging options best suited to your needs.

The Chargemap app is particularly useful during busy periods, such as the summer holidays, when some charging points can be very busy. Users can also consult the opinions of other drivers to choose the best charging points available across Europe. So enjoy a 100% optimised and personalised user experience!

How to charge at charging points in Europe

The Chargemap Pass offers compatibility with over 1,500 networks and access to more than 570,000 charging points across Europe. By using the mobile app, users can also start and stop charging sessions on a selection of networks. This flexibility enables smooth and efficient charging anywhere on the continent. ⚡

In addition to the filters mentioned above, the Chargemap app offers advanced features such as estimated charging costs based on your vehicle and local tariffs. So plan your budget and avoid unpleasant surprises! Charging is a breeze on the Chargemap app!

What are the EV charging tariffs in Europe?

Charging rates vary from one country to another and from one supplier to another. In France, for example, some suppliers charge by the minute in addition to the cost per kWh. In Germany, rates are generally fixed per kWh. It’s a good idea to check the rates on the Chargemap app before you plug in, to make sure you don’t exceed your budget! Make sure you compare the prices on the app and choose the most economical charging option.

Practical tips for optimal charging

To make the most of your charging experience in Europe, here are a few practical tips:

Plan strategic stops

On long journeys, plan your charging stops during lunch or coffee breaks. This optimises your time while charging your vehicle. Everyone gets their strength back, both you and your electric car!

Choose rapid charging stations

If you’re in a hurry, opt for ultra-rapid charging points, available on the main motorways and in major cities. They can save the day if you’re on a tight schedule. Remember to check the power rating of the charging points on the Chargemap app so as not to waste precious time. ⏱️

Using charging cards

Having a back-up charging card can be useful in the event of loss or malfunction. Some cards even offer exclusive benefits, such as discounts on charging sessions. It’s like having supercharging power in your pocket! 🦸‍♂️

Plan according to weather conditions

❄️ In winter, electric vehicle batteries can discharge more quickly. Plan more frequent charging stops to avoid unpleasant surprises. ☀️ In summer, look for shady places for charging to avoid overheating your vehicle.

Use domestic charging options 

If you’re staying in accommodation equipped with a charging point or a suitable socket, take the opportunity to charge your vehicle overnight. 🛏️🔋

Avoid peak times 

Some charging points may be more busy at certain times, particularly in the morning and at the end of the day. Try to charge your vehicle outside these time slots to avoid queues.

Charging your electric car in Europe is now a simple and enjoyable experience, especially thanks to technological advances and well-developed infrastructure. In France, Germany, Italy and elsewhere, the charging network is vast and accessible, so make the most of it!

With tools like Chargemap Pass and the mobile app, you can plan your journeys with complete peace of mind, compare prices and even book charging points. Charging options range from slow to ultra-rapid, so there’s something to suit everyone. Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, Europe’s charging infrastructure means you can make the most of your eco-responsible journey.

Don’t wait any longer, plan your route and set off on your adventure with Chargemap.
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