Charging an EV

Where to Charge

WORRIED ABOUT WHERE TO CHARGE?

You’re not alone — but things have come a long way. These days, there are more places to plug in than ever before. In fact, EV drivers now have more flexibility than petrol drivers (when was the last time you had a petrol station at home?).

Let’s break down the most common charging spots you’ll come across.

HOME

For EV owners, this is your main charging hub. With most journeys under 100 miles, topping up overnight means you’ll rarely need to think about it during the day. Most home setups use a wall-mounted charge point, though a standard 3-pin plug can work in a pinch (just not long term).

WORK

More employers are offering EV charging as a staff perk — great for your car and their green credentials. If your workplace hasn’t caught up yet, rally your fellow EV drivers and give HR a nudge. It’s a small but meaningful step toward lowering emissions.

PUBLIC

From supermarkets and gyms to town car parks and motorway services, public chargers are popping up everywhere. Some are even free to use and perfect for topping up while you shop or grab a coffee. Just remember: slow and fast chargers often need your own cable — so keep it handy.

HOW DO I PAY FOR CHARGING?

If you’re charging at home, it usually just adds to your electricity bill. But when you’re out and about, it’s good to know what to expect. Here’s a quick look at the most common ways to pay when charging on the go.

Contactless Card The quickest option. Just tap your debit or credit card at the charger to start a session — no apps or accounts needed. No sign-up Often more expensive than other options Available mostly on newer rapid and ultra-rapid chargers
Zap-Pay (via Zapmap app) A handy all-in-one solution. Download the Zapmap app, link your payment card once, and use it to pay across several major charging networks. Fewer apps to manage Integrated map shows compatible chargers Not yet available on all networks
Network App Some charging networks require you to use their own app. You’ll need to: 1. Download the app 2. Create an account 3. Add payment info or top up credit Often offers lower rates than contactless Can be time-consuming if you’re using multiple networks
RFID Card Some networks offer (or require) an RFID card — a contactless key fob or card linked to your account. Tap it on the charger to begin. Fast and reliable once set up Great backup if contactless or apps fail Requires ordering in advance from the network provider
TIP: Not all chargers support every payment method, so it’s a good idea to have a couple of options ready — like your contactless card, the Zapmap app, and an RFID card if available.

KEEPING YOU CHARGED ON THE MOVE

The UK’s public EV charging network has come a long way — great news if you’re planning to hire an EV with us. With thousands of new chargers being added every month, there’s now a wide mix of slow, fast, rapid, and ultra-rapid options available, whether you’re popping to the shops or cruising down the motorway.

Gridserve

Found at motorway service areas across the UK with fast and ultra-rapid chargers. Big focus on EV infrastructure.

From 49p/kWh (AC) to 79p/kWh (ultra-rapid DC)

Sign up

Ionity

Offers ultra-rapid charging (150kW+) along major motorways and strategic routes. Popular for longer journeys.

69p/kWh pay-as-you-go, or from 43p with a subscription

Sign up

BP Pulse

One of the UK’s largest networks. Offers slow, fast, and rapid chargers. Often found in supermarkets and car parks.

65–89p/kWh. App and subscribers get lower rates from 55p

Sign up

Shell Recharge

Expanding rapidly with a focus on fast and rapid charging at forecourts and supermarkets.

Charges range from 75–93p/kWh

Sign up

Instavolt

Reliable, easy-to-use rapid chargers, often at big-name food chains.

54p/kWh off-peak via app, up to 87p during peak with contactless

Sign up

Pod Point

Common at Tesco stores and retail areas. Offers fast chargers, often free for a limited time.

Typically 48–65p/kWh

Sign up

Want to know more? Check out Zapmap’s in-depth network guides.

*Rates can vary by charger type (slow, fast, rapid, ultra-rapid) and payment method — app, contactless, RFID, or subscription.

MUST HAVE APPS FOR STRESS-FREE CHARGING

Charging an EV is easier than ever — especially with the right apps in your pocket. Whether you’re finding nearby chargers, checking availability, or paying quickly on the go, these apps make the whole process smooth and hassle-free. Here are some top apps every EV driver should have ready before hitting the road.