ChargePoint in Europe is abandoning subscriptions for individual users. Only ad-hoc charging now. This should be the standard everywhere.

ChargePoint’s German branch sent a message to its customers stating that individual consumers (B2C) will no longer be supported through the mobile app. Such drivers will be able to use the operator’s network via an ad-hoc mechanism, meaning they pay directly at the charger. The app will remain active for B2B customers, including those in corporate fleets, under leasing arrangements, or when ChargePoint acts as an intermediary and installs a charger for someone else’s use.

Ad-hoc charging, the preferred future for charging stations

Ad-hoc (literally “for this purpose”), or impromptu charging, works even better than refueling: 1/ the driver checks the price information and, if it suits them, drives to the charging station; 2/ they then authenticate using a credit card and connect the car to the charger. If the specific model and provider support Plug & Charge, step two eliminates the need to wave the card—just connecting an electrician to the charging station is enough for everything else to happen automatically. In short, it can’t be simpler.

ChargePoint has just decided that for individual users in Europe, it will use the aforementioned 1->2 model. It is abandoning apps, subscriptions, and bonuses (see illustration above), simply inviting people to its stations. This is intended to simplify billing and… certainly make life easier for those who are just transitioning from gasoline cars to electric vehicles. The abundance of apps, the need to choose subscriptions, and the lack of compatibility between the car’s navigation suggestions (“the best stop along the way is here”) and user promotions (“I get a discount with this provider; their charger is over there”) can be frustrating and deter gasoline car owners who want to buy an electric vehicle but are afraid of change.

A ChargePoint announcement sent to customers in Germany. Automated translation using Google Translate, which is why it says “charging station” at the top instead of “ChargePoint” (c) Jan Olbrecht / X

Naturally, the situation may stem from fierce competition and ChargePoint’s problems in Europe, but it indicates the direction we should head. Ordinary users shouldn’t think about mobile apps; they should simply visit those charging stations that offer better prices. If a service provider wants to further profile their customers, track their trips to tailor bonuses and extract extra money from them in this way, they can do so, but it shouldn’t be mandatory.

Editor’s note from Elektrowozu: The current scarcity of charging station operators in the U.S. stems from the fact that this market is relatively new. We believe it will become more organized in the coming years, and people will stop relying on expensive operators who promise 400 kW but can barely deliver 150 kW.

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