Charging stations

The roll-out of charging infrastructure is speeding up, and under EU law, from 2024, the public network will need to keep pace with the electric car fleet in Europe.

630 000 Public charging points across the EU

12% Share of public chargers in the EU that are fast chargers

Through the Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) the EU has finally resolved the ‘chicken and egg’ discussion that lasted for years. Starting from 2024 all EU member states will need to ensure that the deployment of public charging stations will always be fully in line with the number of electric vehicles registered in their territory.

Availability today

At the end of 2023, there were more than 630,000 charge points in the bloc at the end of 2023. The charging network grew faster last year than the electric vehicle fleet. Almost all EU member states have increased their charging network significantly and most are on track to meet the targets that the EU has set under AFIR. Fast charging accounts for a growing share of the public charging (now 12% of the public chargers). By 2025 EU countries have agreed that the last gaps in the fast charging network (150 kW+) along the EU’s main roads will be closed.

Conveniently placed smart / bi-directional chargers

It is crucial to roll-out strategically located, smart and interoperable infrastructure. Smart and bi-directional charging at home and workplace is a priority as most charging will happen there. Rolling out fast charging hubs across all EU roads and outside cities to allow charging for top-ups and shared fleets is also important. Commercial property, fuel stations, park & ride schemes, shops and hotels, for example, should all provide charging solutions. It should be as easy for a driver to charge their EV as it is to fill up their tank today, with transparent pricing and seamless payment solutions.