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EV charging Portugal: Everything you need to know
You’ve been thinking about switching to sustainable mobility but still have some doubts about the charging process. Don´t worry - Xtracars is here to simplify electric mobility and explain everything you need to know, so that driving an electric car is not a concern. In this article, we’ll answer some of the most common questions on EV charging in Portugal: How and where can you charge your car? What exactly is an electric vehicle charging card? And is it really necessary?
What is an electric vehicle charging card?
There are two ways to charge an electric vehicle or plug-in hybrid: using a private charging station - usually installed at home or at the workplace – or using a public charging station. When using the public network in EV charging Portugal, you’ll need to pay for your charge, much like refuelling a petrol or diesel car. However, unlike at a petrol station, payment isn’t always available via debit/credit card or cash. Instead, you’ll need an electric vehicle charging card. These cards are available from Electricity Mobility Suppliers and grant access to the entire Mobi.E public charging network.
Are there alternative payment methods?
As mentioned, traditional payment methods aren’t always available at public charging stations in Portugal, but there are alternatives:
- Electricity Supplier for Electric Mobility Apps: several companies offer these types of Apps. However, not all of these provide access to the entire Mobi.E network or third-party stations. Some are limited to charging on their own stations, which means you need to download several Apps to access different stations. Such as the Tesla App, Power Dot App, and IONITY App.
- QR Code available at the station: some charging stations feature a QR Code, allowing you to charge and pay with your smartphone. However, this method can be a more complex, and not all charging stations offer this option.
Considering all of these, the electric vehicle charging card still is the most effective and widely used payment method. This is the right solution for drivers seeking an easy electric mobility experience. All you need to do is tap the electric vehicle charging card on the reader - no apps, no authentication process. What's more, this is the most compatible option, as one single card provides access to hundreds of stations across the Mobi.E network.
What are the charging options available?
- Normal Charging (AC): offers power of up to 22kW and takes longer to charge;
- Fast Charging (DC): allows for faster charging and has a power between 22kW and 150kW;
- Ultra-fast Charging (DC): with a power of more than 150 kW, these stations allow you to charge your car in less than an hour.
How much does it cost to charge an electric vehicle?
Charging an electric vehicle is significantly cheaper than fuelling a combustion vehicle. However, the price varies depending on several factors, including where you charge it.
Charging at home
The cost of charging an electric vehicle at home depends on your electricity contract and the equipment you use. The standard plug socket is a more affordable but tends to be slower and less efficient. Installing a wallbox, while requiring a higher initial investment, allows for quicker and more optimised charging.
Charging on the Mobi.E Public Network
Public network prices vary depending on the charging speed, charger type, and applicable tariffs or taxes. It’s always worth checking these details in advance to avoid surprises.
Simplified Electric Mobility with Xtracars
At Xtracars, our goal is to make your journeys as hassle-free as possible. That’s why every time you subscribe to an electric vehicle with us, you’ll receive an electric vehicle charging card from our partner Go.Charge. This card provides access to the full Mobi.E public network and the private Go.Charge network – giving you the freedom to charge your EV easily and efficiently wherever you are. Now that your questions about EV charging Portugal are answered, you’re ready to book a car. Head over to our website and explore all the electric vehicle options available.
