11 Best EV Charging Apps in the UK (2025)
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This guide compares the best EV charging apps available to UK drivers in 2025 and shows you how to choose the right solution for your needs.
Digital wallet full of different payment methods? A folder with 6 different charging providers? Conflicting recommendations of which is the ‘best’ EV charging app in the UK?
We get why you’re searching for one EV charging app to rule them all. And we’re here to help. We’ve done the research so you don’t have to and come up with a list of our favorite 11 apps available in the UK.
We’ve outlined the pros and cons of each, with a list of features and considerations so that you’re equipped to determine which on this list is the best app for you.
The right choice depends on what matters most. That might be network coverage, transparent pricing or payment convenience. Although streamlining is often simpler, there is always the option to utilise a few apps to cover multiple needs.
What to Consider Before Choosing Your EV Charging App
Choosing an EV charging app isn't just about downloading the first option you find. The right app can save you time, money, and frustration, especially when you're on the go.
Here's what to evaluate:
- Network coverage is crucial. Some apps show thousands of charging points across multiple networks, while others are limited to a single provider. Look for apps that cover the widest range of networks to give you more options wherever you drive.
- Pricing transparency matters when you're comparing costs. The best apps show you live pricing before you plug in, helping you find the cheapest chargers in your area. Some even offer subscription models with discounted rates.
- Ease of payment can make or break your charging experience. Apps that allow contactless payment or in-app transactions are far more convenient than those requiring separate RFID cards or accounts for each network.
- Route planning and live availability features help you avoid the frustration of arriving at a broken or occupied charger. Advanced apps integrate route planning tools that factor in your current charge level and suggest optimal stops.
- Extra perks like subscription discounts, loyalty rewards, or salary sacrifice integration can add significant value over time. These features can reduce your overall charging costs by up to 60% in some cases.
Understanding how much it costs to charge an electric car in the UK helps you evaluate which app offers the best value for your specific usage patterns.
11 Best EV Charging Apps in the UK
loveelectric Charge Card | Best EV App for Maximum Savings on Home & Public Charging
The loveelectric Charge Card stands out as the UK's most comprehensive charging solution, working across 100% of UK public charging networks - unlike competing solutions that have limited coverage.
It’s a single digital Visa card that unifies all payment solutions.
Coverage extends to Europe too, giving you access to thousands of charging points when travelling abroad.
It’s a simple bolt-on that works with any company car EV. Whether it’s leased through a salary sacrifice scheme or a normal business lease, the loveelectric Charge Card can be used to save on both home and public charging.
Paired with loveelectric's salary sacrifice scheme, drivers can save up to 60% on their electric car and charging. This significantly outperforms other charge cards in the market.
Key features:
- Universal access to every public charger in the UK
- European charging network coverage for cross-border travel
- Up to 60% savings through salary sacrifice payments
- No juggling multiple apps or cards
- Transparent pricing with no hidden costs
- Works seamlessly alongside other apps like Zap-Map for finding chargers
Pros:
- Industry-leading savings of up to 60%
- Complete UK network coverage (100% of UK chargers)
- European travel capability
- Simple one-card solution
- Pre-tax deductions reduce overall motoring costs
Cons:
- Requires your EV to be a company car (business lease, salary sacrifice etc.)
- Only available to employees whose company have signed up
- European coverage may not include all networks
How loveelectric Charge Card Works
The card bolts on with your employer's salary sacrifice car scheme or company car scheme, allowing charging costs to be deducted from your pre-tax salary. This means you pay less tax while accessing cheaper charging rates across every network in the UK.
Unlike other charge cards that work with limited networks, loveelectric's solution ensures you'll never arrive at a charger you can't use - whether you're driving across the UK or taking your EV on a European road trip.
Zap-Map | Best for Finding Chargers and Community Insights
Zap-Map has been the go-to app for UK EV drivers since 2014, offering the most comprehensive database of charging points in the country.
The app covers around 95% of the UK's public charging infrastructure, with real-time availability data for over 75% of chargers. Its community-driven approach means you get honest reviews and photos from real drivers.
Key features:
- Interactive map showing 86,000+ charging devices across 43,500+ UK locations
- Live availability status for most chargers
- Route planner with charging stops
- In-app payment through Zap-Pay
- User reviews and photos
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
Pros:
- Comprehensive UK coverage
- Strong community feedback and ratings
- Great route planning features
- Free tier includes essential features
Cons:
- Premium features require £4.99/month subscription
- Can't start charges at all networks directly
- Sometimes shows chargers that require separate network apps
How Zap-Map Works
Download the free app, create an account, and start searching for chargers near you. Filter by connector type, charging speed, and network provider. When you find a suitable charger, the app provides directions and shows whether it's available. Zap-Pay lets you start and pay for charges at participating networks without separate apps.
Octopus Electroverse | Best EV Charging App for European Coverage
Octopus Electroverse connects drivers to over 1 million public chargers across 40 countries, making it Europe's largest EV charging network as of 2025.
The platform's "one card, one app" approach eliminates the frustration of managing multiple accounts and payment methods. Better yet, it never marks up charging rates—you always pay the network's standard price.
Key features:
- Access to 1,000,000+ chargers globally
- Free RFID Electrocard for offline charging
- No subscription fees or hidden costs
- Plunge Pricing offers up to 50% off when renewable energy is abundant
- Integrated route planner
- 8% discount for Intelligent Octopus Go customers
- Salary sacrifice option for business users
Pros:
- Large network coverage
- No markup on charging prices
- Free to use with no subscription required
- Smart pricing features reward off-peak charging
Cons:
- Not all networks accept Electroverse payments
- Some users report occasional payment issues
- Best discounts require being an Octopus Energy customer
How Octopus Electroverse Works
Sign up through the app or website, order your free Electrocard, and add a payment method. Use either the physical card or the app to start charging at any participating location. Charges appear on your bill with transparent pricing and optional integration with your home energy account if you're an Octopus Energy customer.
OVO Charge Anytime (formerly Bonnet) | Best EV Charging App for Subscription-Based Savings
OVO Charge provides access to over 400,000 chargers across the UK and Europe through a single app.
The app's unique selling point is its monthly subscription model to cover home and public charging, which costs £27/month.
Key features:
- 400,000+ chargers in 12 European countries
- Pay-as-you go option for 14p/kWh
- Standard plan: £27/month for around 700 miles of smart charging
- Premium plan: £37.50/month for around 1,000 miles of smart charging
- Real-time availability and pricing
- Community ratings and reviews
Pros:
- Unified subscription model for simplicity
- Wide European coverage
- Transparent pricing
- Excellent customer service reputation
Cons:
- Subscription only worthwhile for regular users
- Have to be an OVO Customer
- Smaller UK network than Electroverse or Zap-Map
How OVO Charge Works
Download the app, sign up, and choose whether to use pay-as-you-go rates or subscribe to a plan for discounted charging. Find chargers on the map, check availability, and start your charge directly through the app. Your chosen payment method is charged automatically.
BP Pulse | Best EV Charging App for Motorway and Fast Charging Network
BP Pulse operates one of the UK's largest networks with around 1,400 rapid and ultra-rapid chargers, particularly strong at motorway service stations.
For drivers who frequently use major routes, BP Pulse offers reliable, high-speed charging with straightforward payment options.
Key features:
- 1,400+ rapid and ultra-rapid devices
- Strong motorway coverage
- Contactless payment at most locations
- In-app remote start and stop
- Subscription plans available for regular users
- Partnership with Tesco for supermarket charging
Pros:
- Excellent motorway coverage
- Reliable rapid charging infrastructure
- Well-maintained chargers
- Good app interface
Cons:
- Premium pricing compared to some networks
- Limited normal charging options
- Subscription required for best rates
How BP Pulse Works
Download the app, register an account, and add a payment method. Locate nearby BP Pulse chargers, start your charge via the app or contactless payment, and monitor progress remotely. The app shows live pricing and availability before you arrive.
Shell Recharge | Best for European Road Trips
Shell Recharge provides access to over 500,000 charge points across Europe, making it ideal for drivers who regularly travel across borders.
The app combines Shell's own chargers with partner networks, offering one of the most seamless European charging experiences available.
Key features:
- 500,000+ chargers across Europe
- Covers Shell and partner networks
- Remote start/stop functionality
- Smart filters for connector type and charging speed
- Trip planning with charging stops
- Multiple payment methods
Pros:
- Excellent European coverage
- Trusted brand reliability
- Good app usability
- Strong network of rapid chargers
Cons:
- Variable pricing across different networks
- Some locations more expensive than alternatives
- Requires separate app even at Shell forecourts
How Shell Recharge Works
Create an account in the Shell Recharge app, link your payment card, and locate chargers across Europe. Start charging via the app, and track your session remotely. The app automatically charges your linked payment method based on the network's rates.
Pod Point | Best EV Charging App for Free Destination Charging
Pod Point specialises in destination charging at supermarkets, retail parks, and leisure facilities, with many locations offering free charging to customers.
The network includes over 9,200 charging bays across the UK, making it particularly useful for charging while you shop or visit attractions.
Key features:
- 9,200+ charging bays nationwide
- Many free charging locations
- Found at major supermarkets (Tesco, Lidl)
- Real-time charger status
- Automatic session tracking
- Remote charge activation
Pros:
- Free charging opportunities
- Convenient locations for everyday activities
- Reliable network
- Simple app interface
Cons:
- Mostly slower 7kW chargers
- Can get busy at peak times
- Limited rapid charging options
How Pod Point Works
Download the app, create a free account, and locate nearby Pod Point chargers. If the location offers free charging, simply plug in and charge at no cost. For paid locations, the app handles payment automatically based on your charging session length.
Ionity | Best EV App for Premium Ultra-Rapid Motorway Charging
Ionity operates a premium ultra-rapid charging network across Europe, with over 200 sites in the UK featuring 350kW chargers.
While more expensive than alternatives, Ionity delivers the fastest possible charging speeds for long-distance travel.
Key features:
- 350kW ultra-rapid charging
- Strategic motorway locations
- Premium reliability and maintenance
- Integration with manufacturer apps (BMW, Mercedes, etc.)
- Passport subscription model for discounted rates
Pros:
- Fastest charging speeds available
- Highly reliable network
- Premium facilities at most sites
- Well-positioned for long journeys
Cons:
- Expensive pay-as-you-go rates (around 74p/kWh)
- Subscription required for reasonable pricing
- Limited to motorway corridors
How Ionity Works
Access Ionity through partner manufacturer apps or directly via payment at the charger. Some car brands offer discounted rates through built-in accounts. For the best value, subscribe to the Ionity Passport scheme for reduced per-kWh rates.
ChargePlace Scotland | Best EV Charging App for Scottish Drivers
ChargePlace Scotland is Scotland's official public EV charging network, covering the entire country with a mix of free and paid charging options.
The network ensures comprehensive coverage across urban and rural Scotland, addressing the infrastructure gaps that can exist in more remote areas.
Key features:
- Scotland-wide coverage including rural areas
- Mix of free and paid chargers
- Government-backed reliability
- Detailed live status information
- Navigation integration
- Single account for all locations
Pros:
- Best coverage in Scotland
- Many free charging locations
- Government support ensures maintenance
- Good rural infrastructure
Cons:
- Scotland-only coverage
- Variable charging speeds
- Can be busy in popular locations
How ChargePlace Scotland Works
Register for a free ChargePlace Scotland account and order your RFID card. Use the app or website to find chargers, check availability, and navigate to sites. Plug in and tap your card to start charging. Many locations offer free charging, while others charge competitive rates.
PlugShare | Best EV App for Global Trip Planning and Community Data
PlugShare has been serving EV drivers worldwide since 2011, offering crowdsourced data on chargers across the globe.
The app is particularly valuable for trip planning, with detailed user photos, reviews, and check-ins that give you confidence before arriving at unfamiliar locations.
Key features:
- Global coverage across 150+ countries
- Extensive user photos and reviews
- Check-in system shows recent activity
- Trip planner with charging stops
- Filters for connector types and networks
- Integration with Tesla chargers
Pros:
- Unmatched global coverage
- Strong community contributions
- Excellent for discovering lesser-known chargers
- Free to use
Cons:
- Can't start charges directly
- Data quality varies by location
- Some listings outdated
How PlugShare Works
Download the free app and browse chargers worldwide without creating an account (though registration adds features). Search by location or plan routes with charging stops. Read reviews and view photos from other drivers before heading to a charger. Use the app alongside payment-enabled apps for the complete charging experience.
Instavolt | Best EV App for Reliable Rapid Charging with Contactless Payment
InstaVolt operates the UK's largest independent rapid charging network with 2,125+ devices as of September 2025.
The company built its reputation on reliability, offering contactless payment at every charger and 99.4% uptime across the network.
Key features:
- 2,125+ rapid charging devices
- Contactless payment (no app required)
- 99.4% network uptime
- Consistent pricing across all locations
- No membership or subscription needed
- 24/7 customer support
Pros:
- Excellent reliability record
- No app required (though one is available)
- Simple contactless payments
- Consistent experience across all sites
Cons:
- Higher pricing than subscription-based alternatives
- No loyalty rewards or discounts
- Limited slower charging options
How InstaVolt Works
Simply arrive at any InstaVolt charger, plug in your vehicle, and tap your contactless payment card on the reader. Charging starts automatically. For added convenience, download the optional app to locate chargers, view pricing, and track charging history.
Do You Need More Than One EV Charging App?
Most UK drivers use 2-3 different apps regularly. This isn't a sign of poor planning, it's actually the smartest approach to EV charging in 2025.
Here's why multiple apps make sense:
Coverage gaps exist even with the largest networks. Zap-Map might show a charger that only accepts BP Pulse payments, while Electroverse covers different networks. Having backup options prevents being stranded when your preferred network has no nearby chargers.
Pricing differences between networks can be significant. The same charger location might cost 45p/kWh through one app but 65p/kWh through another. Apps like Zap-Map help you compare prices before plugging in.
Payment integration varies across networks. Some chargers only accept specific apps or RFID cards. Keeping 2-3 payment-enabled apps ensures you can always charge when needed, rather than hunting for alternative payment methods.
The smart combination for most drivers includes a navigation/discovery app (Zap-Map or PlugShare) and a single payment method like loveelectric’s Charge Card for maximum savings. This trio covers finding, accessing, and paying for charging across virtually any network.
Think of it like having different credit cards, each serves a specific purpose, and together they give you complete flexibility.
How to Use an EV Charging App with Salary Sacrifice
Salary sacrifice schemes offer one of the most cost-effective ways to drive an electric vehicle. When combined with the right charging solution, your savings can be substantial.
Here's how it works: employees can lease an EV through their employer, with payments deducted from pre-tax salary. This typically saves 30-60% compared to personal leasing or car finance.
But the savings don't stop at the vehicle itself.
How the loveelectric Charge Card Makes Charging Easier
The loveelectric Charge Card is designed specifically for drivers who have gotten their car through work, integrating seamlessly with your existing arrangement.
Universal network access means the card works at 100% of UK public chargers—from rapid motorway chargers to destination charging at shopping centres. You never need to worry about compatibility or carrying multiple cards.
Maximum savings of up to 60% come from two factors: charging costs are deducted pre-tax and loveelectric's partnerships with charging networks can deliver better rates than pay-as-you-go customers receive.
Simple payment management consolidates all charging costs into one monthly deduction from your salary, alongside your vehicle payment. No more juggling receipts, expense claims, or multiple payment methods. Just a single, digital card.
Complete EV support positions loveelectric as more than just a leasing provider. From helping you choose the right EV to supporting your daily charging needs, the service covers your entire EV journey.
Pair it with navigation apps like Zap-Map or Electroverse to find available chargers, then use your loveelectric Charge Card for payment. This combination gives you comprehensive network coverage with maximum savings.
Learn more about the loveelectric Charge Card here.
If your company doesn't yet offer salary sacrifice or a company car scheme, you can refer them to loveelectric to set up a scheme that benefits both employees and the business.
Save Up to 60% on EV Charging with loveelectric
Making the switch to electric shouldn't mean higher motoring costs and with loveelectric's integrated approach, it doesn't have to.
Through salary sacrifice, you can access new or used EVs while saving 30-60% compared to personal leasing. Add the loveelectric Charge Card, and you'll save up to 60% on public or home charging too.
The combined savings make EV ownership remarkably affordable while supporting the UK's transition to cleaner transport.
To get started with the Charge Card, you simply have to bolt it on to your current company car scheme or sign up to loveelectric. Explore loveelectric's solutions today.
Sources
- Zap-Map. (2025). EV charging statistics 2025. Retrieved from https://www.zap-map.com/ev-stats/how-many-charging-points
- GOV.UK. (2025). Electric vehicle public charging infrastructure statistics: July 2025. Department for Transport. Retrieved from https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/electric-vehicle-public-charging-infrastructure-statistics-july-2025
- Octopus Energy. (2025). Electroverse reaches one million public EV chargers. Retrieved from https://octopus.energy/press/electroverse-skyrockets-to-1-million-public-ev-chargers/
- Bonnet. (2025). EV Charging App – Find Electric Car Charging Points. Retrieved from https://www.joinbonnet.com/ev-charging-app
- Transport + Energy. (2025). Octopus Electroverse reaches one million public EV chargers. Retrieved from https://transportandenergy.com/2025/07/10/octopus-electroverse-reaches-one-million-public-ev-chargers
- Uswitch. (2025). EV Charging Statistics 2025 - Industry Report. Retrieved from https://www.uswitch.com/electric-car/ev-charging/ev-charging-statistics/
