How to locate public AC and DC charging points across Europe using dedicated apps, in-car navigation, and smart planning tools.
Last updated: 27/01/2025
Best Apps for Finding Charging Stations
PlugShare: The largest community-powered charging map worldwide. Shows real-time charger status, reviews, and photos. Free.
ChargePoint & Shell Recharge: Major European networks with in-app payment and live availability. Good for planned motorway routes.
ABRP (A Better Route Planner): Intelligent route planner that integrates PHEV data and suggests charging stops based on your battery state. Ideal for long trips.
Google Maps: Simply search "EV charger near me" — pulls live availability data from major networks.
In-car navigation: Most modern PHEVs (VW, BMW, Volvo, Mercedes) show live charger availability along your route directly on the central display.
Tips for Hassle-Free Public Charging
Check compatibility first: Confirm the station has a Type 2 AC or CCS DC socket before departing.
Have a backup RFID card: Network-specific apps can sometimes fail — an RFID card for major networks (Ionity, Shell Recharge, ChargePoint) ensures you can always charge.
Use roaming platforms: Services like Plugsurfing or Chargemap give access to multiple networks with a single account.
Plan around 80 % charging: For DC fast chargers, charging slows significantly above 80 % — it is more efficient to leave at 80 % and stop again later.