When it comes to electric car ownership in the UK, one of the most important considerations is access to reliable and convenient charging infrastructure. Fortunately, there are several electric car charging apps available in the UK that can help drivers locate and manage charging points effortlessly. These apps offer features such as charger search functions, mapping, user-friendly interfaces, and different pricing options. In this article, we will explore the top electric car charging apps in the UK based on their user ratings, costs, and functionality.
Key Takeaways:
- There are multiple electric car charging apps available in the UK to assist drivers with locating and managing charging points.
- These apps offer various features such as charger search functions, mapping, and user-friendly interfaces.
- The top electric car charging apps in the UK are determined based on their user ratings, costs, and functionality.
- Some popular electric car charging apps in the UK include Electroverse, Bonnet, Chargepoint, Zapmap, Plugsurfing, ChargeNow, Chargemap, and car manufacturer-specific apps.
- Car manufacturer apps, such as Kia Charge and Audi’s Charging Service, offer specific benefits and discounts for owners of their electric vehicles.
Electroverse
Electroverse, developed by energy company Octopus, is a highly rated electric car charging app in the UK. It offers excellent value and convenience, especially for those who are already customers of Octopus energy.
The app allows users to connect to charging stations using either the app or a free RFID card. Electroverse integrates with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing seamless access to essential features while on the go.
One of the standout features of Electroverse is its ability to provide access to chargers that are not part of the Electroverse network. This means users can locate and utilize charging points across the UK, regardless of their affiliation with the app’s network. Whether you’re in a different town or on a long-distance road trip, Electroverse has you covered.
| Features | Benefits |
|---|---|
| User-friendly interface | Easy navigation and quick access to charging information |
| Mapping function | Effortlessly locate charging points and plan routes |
| Integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto | Seamless integration with your car’s infotainment system |
| Rapid charging and payment process | No more waiting around or fumbling for change |
Electroverse offers a comprehensive solution for electric vehicle (EV) drivers in the UK. Its user-friendly interface, integration with major car software platforms, and access to a wide range of charging points make it a top choice for those wanting a seamless EV charging experience.
Bonnet
Bonnet is another popular electric car charging app in the UK that offers different membership levels to suit individual needs. With options ranging from a free plan to paid plans, Bonnet allows users to access charging networks at discounted rates. The app features a user-friendly map with clear pricing information, although it lacks an RFID card option. Bonnet’s flexible subscription options make it a cost-effective choice for UK drivers looking for electric vehicle charging solutions.
With Bonnet, users have the flexibility to choose the membership plan that best fits their charging needs. The app provides a range of options, from a free basic plan to premium paid plans that offer additional benefits. These different membership levels ensure that drivers can find a plan that suits their budget and charging requirements.
One of the standout features of Bonnet is its user-friendly map interface. The map provides a clear visual representation of the charging points available in the UK, making it easy for users to locate and navigate to the nearest charging station. Additionally, the app displays pricing information for each charging point, giving users transparency and helping them make informed decisions about where to charge their electric vehicles.
While Bonnet does not offer an RFID card option like some other charging apps, it compensates for this with its flexible subscription options. Users can choose the plan that works best for them, whether they prefer to pay for individual charging sessions or opt for a subscription-based model. This allows drivers to access charging networks at discounted rates and ensure cost-effectiveness for their electric vehicle charging needs.
Key Features of Bonnet:
- Wide range of membership plans to suit individual needs
- User-friendly map interface with clear pricing information
- Flexible subscription options for cost-effective charging
Explore the Bonnet app to discover its range of membership plans and take advantage of its user-friendly features to make your electric vehicle charging experience in the UK simple and convenient.
Chargepoint
Chargepoint is an easy-to-use electric car charging app that provides filters to help users find chargers that are compatible with their vehicles. The app integrates with Google and Apple Maps, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Chargepoint offers a free RFID card for quick and hassle-free charging, with no additional costs in most cases. However, some aspects of the app, such as pricing and translations, may not be optimized for the UK market.
Chargepoint is a user-friendly electric car charging app that ensures compatibility with your vehicle. By utilizing filters, Chargepoint aids in locating chargers that are suitable for your specific electric car. The app seamlessly integrates with popular navigation platforms like Google and Apple Maps, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for added convenience. Chargepoint offers a free RFID card, eliminating the need for any additional costs during charging sessions. However, it’s worth noting that certain aspects of the app, such as pricing information and translations, may not be fully optimized for the UK market.
Zapmap
Zapmap is one of the most widely used electric car charging apps in the UK, offering drivers the ability to easily locate charging points and access valuable tips from a large user community. While Zapmap works with a limited number of charging networks, it provides the option to upgrade to a premium subscription for an ad-free experience and additional features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.
Zapmap generally charges the same prices as the chargepoint providers but adds a small fee on certain networks, ensuring transparency and convenience for users. With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive charging point locator, Zapmap is an essential tool for electric vehicle owners in the UK.
Zapmap Features:
- Effortlessly locate chargepoints across the UK
- Access tips and recommendations from a large user community
- Premium subscription available for an ad-free experience
- Integrates seamlessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Transparent pricing aligned with chargepoint providers
Comparison of Zapmap with Other Electric Car Charging Apps:
| Electric Car Charging App | Zapmap | App A | App B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charging Point Locator | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| User Tips and Recommendations | ✔️ | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Premium Subscription | ✔️ | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto | ✔️ | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Transparent Pricing | ✔️ | ✔️ | ❌ |
Plugsurfing
Plugsurfing is an electric car charging app that provides access to one of the largest networks of chargers in Europe, including the United Kingdom. The app offers a free standard package that allows users to easily locate and use charging points for their electric vehicles.
For those looking for an enhanced charging experience, Plugsurfing also offers the option to purchase an RFID card or key fob for £9. This allows users to conveniently initiate charging sessions without relying solely on the app.
Plugsurfing has established partnerships with notable car manufacturers, further expanding its reach and accessibility for electric vehicle owners. By collaborating with these manufacturers, Plugsurfing aims to provide seamless charging solutions that cater to specific car models.
However, it’s worth noting that Plugsurfing’s monthly subscriptions may not offer the best value compared to other top-rated electric car charging apps in the UK. Users should carefully evaluate the pricing and features offered by Plugsurfing before committing to a subscription plan.
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Large Charging Network | Access to one of the largest networks of charging points in Europe. |
| Free Standard Package | Basic access to charging points at no cost. |
| Enhanced Charging Experience | Option to purchase an RFID card or key fob for £9. |
| Partnerships with Car Manufacturers | Collaboration with notable car manufacturers to provide tailored charging solutions. |
| Subscription Value | Monthly subscriptions may not offer the best value compared to other top-rated apps. |
Despite the potential drawbacks, Plugsurfing remains a viable option for electric vehicle owners in the UK due to its extensive charging network and the convenience it offers. It’s important for users to weigh the pros and cons and determine if Plugsurfing aligns with their charging requirements and budget.
ChargeNow
In our exploration of the top electric car charging apps in the UK, we come across ChargeNow. This app offers a decent selection of partners and features a user-friendly map interface, making it a viable option for UK drivers seeking electric vehicle charging solutions.
However, there are a few drawbacks that make ChargeNow less attractive compared to other options. Firstly, the registration process can be complicated, resulting in potential frustrations and delays for users. Additionally, ChargeNow imposes connection fees and markup on the energy price for each charging session.
These extra costs, coupled with occasional bugs and confusing instructions, may discourage some drivers from adopting ChargeNow as their primary electric car charging app. Although the app is free to use, these additional expenses can add up and affect the overall user experience.
While ChargeNow offers a good selection of partners and a user-friendly map, its complicated registration process and additional fees make it less attractive for UK drivers. As a result, other electric car charging apps on the market may offer a more seamless experience and better value for money.
Chargemap
Chargemap is a charging app that offers a comprehensive list of charging stations for electric vehicles in the UK. However, it’s important to note that the payment options available in the app may not be widely accepted in the UK. Users have the choice to pay for charging sessions directly on the platform or purchase an RFID card for convenience. However, acquiring the RFID card comes with a hefty price tag of £17.
Furthermore, while Chargemap provides access to a wide range of chargers, some of the stations listed on the app have significantly higher prices compared to other free-to-use apps available in the market. This could make Chargemap a less cost-effective option for UK drivers, especially when considering the availability of alternative charging apps with more competitive pricing.
Despite its limitations, Chargemap can still be a useful resource for drivers who prefer the convenience of having access to a wide selection of charging stations. However, it’s advisable to compare the prices and payment options offered by different apps to ensure that you’re getting the best value for your charging needs.
Car Manufacturer Apps
In addition to the apps available to all drivers, car manufacturers often offer their own charging apps as part of the purchase of a new or used electric vehicle. These car manufacturer apps provide a more tailored experience for owners, with special subscriptions and discounts on charging costs.
Two standout options in the UK market are Kia Charge and Audi’s Charging Service
Kia Charge offers a comprehensive charging solution for Kia electric vehicle owners. The app provides access to a network of charging stations, with features such as real-time availability and pricing information. Kia Charge members enjoy discounted rates and preferential access to certain charging points, making it an attractive choice for Kia owners looking for electric vehicle charging solutions in the UK.
Audi’s Charging Service offers similar benefits for Audi owners. The app provides access to a wide range of charging stations across the UK, with exclusive offers and discounts for Audi customers. Audi owners can easily locate and navigate to available charging points, making their charging experience hassle-free and convenient.
Both Kia Charge and Audi’s Charging Service aim to enhance the charging experience for electric vehicle owners by offering additional benefits and convenience. These car manufacturer apps provide a seamless integration between the vehicle and the charging infrastructure, ensuring a reliable and efficient charging process.
It is worth exploring these manufacturer-specific apps if you own a Kia or Audi electric vehicle, as they offer unique advantages tailored to your specific car model. By utilizing these car manufacturer apps, you can maximize the benefits of owning an electric vehicle in the UK and make the most of the available charging infrastructure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to electric car charging apps in the UK, there are several top contenders that offer different features and pricing options. Users can choose apps based on their specific needs, such as integration with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, access to discounts, or the convenience of a free RFID card. Some apps excel in terms of user ratings, ease of use, and comprehensive charging network coverage.
Among the top electric car charging apps, Electroverse stands out as a highly rated option, offering great value and convenience for Octopus energy customers. Bonnet, an alternative electric car charging app, provides flexible subscription options and discounted access to charging networks.
Zapmap is a widely used app that offers a large user community and additional features with a premium subscription. On the other hand, Chargepoint and Plugsurfing offer easy-to-use interfaces and access to extensive charging networks in the UK and across Europe respectively.
While car manufacturer apps like Kia Charge and Audi’s Charging Service provide exclusive benefits for specific models, users can find the best electric vehicle charging apps in the UK by considering factors such as reliable access to charging infrastructure, competitive pricing, and additional features to enhance their electric car ownership experience.
FAQ
What are electric car charging apps?
Electric car charging apps are mobile applications that allow drivers to locate and manage charging points for their electric vehicles. These apps provide features such as charger search functions, mapping, pricing information, and sometimes even integration with the vehicle’s infotainment system.
What are the top electric car charging apps in the UK?
Some of the top electric car charging apps in the UK are Electroverse, Bonnet, Chargepoint, Zapmap, Plugsurfing, ChargeNow, and Chargemap. These apps offer different features, pricing options, and charging network coverage, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their needs.
How do I use an electric car charging app to find charging stations?
To use an electric car charging app to find charging stations, simply download the app to your smartphone, create an account, and enter your search parameters, such as location and charger type. The app will then display a map with nearby charging stations, allowing you to select and navigate to your preferred charging point.
Can I use any electric car charging app with any electric vehicle?
Most electric car charging apps support a wide range of electric vehicles. However, it’s important to check with the app developer or the vehicle manufacturer to ensure compatibility between the app and your specific electric vehicle model.
How much do electric car charging apps cost?
Electric car charging apps vary in cost. Some apps are free to download and use, while others offer premium features and subscription plans at an additional cost. It’s important to review the pricing options of each app to determine which one aligns with your budget and charging needs.
Are there any disadvantages to using electric car charging apps?
While electric car charging apps offer many benefits, there may be some disadvantages. For example, certain apps may only work with specific charging networks, limiting your options. Additionally, some apps may have limited availability in certain areas or may not offer the same features and pricing as other apps. It’s important to research and compare different apps to find the one that best suits your needs.
Can I use an electric car charging app to pay for charging sessions?
Yes, many electric car charging apps offer the ability to pay for charging sessions directly through the app. This allows users to conveniently pay for their charging sessions without the need for physical cash or payment cards. However, it’s important to check whether the app supports your preferred payment method before using it.
Can I use multiple electric car charging apps simultaneously?
Yes, you can use multiple electric car charging apps simultaneously. This can be beneficial if you want to access a wide range of charging networks or if you prefer certain features offered by different apps. However, it’s important to keep track of your charging activity and any associated costs across all the apps you use.
Are there any manufacturer-specific electric car charging apps?
Yes, many car manufacturers offer their own charging apps as part of the purchase of a new or used electric vehicle. Examples include Kia Charge and Audi’s Charging Service. These apps often provide special subscriptions, discounts, and features tailored to customers who own specific car models.
