E-Vehicle Charging Rate Test: Wrong rate selection can cost up to 809 euros more per year

Image: Renault

The fast charging network in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland continues to develop, but there are still significant differences among the providers. This is shown by Connect’s eighth charging network test and Umlaut’s analysis. The testing teams traveled around 6,700 kilometers and evaluated fast charging stations from 17 providers.

In Germany, Aral Pulse leads for the fourth time in a row; in Austria, it’s Smatrics EnBW; and in Switzerland, it’s Ionity. Mercedes, EWE Go, and Aldi Süd perform particularly well across various usage scenarios.

The test examined charging rates for three typical user groups: overnight parkers, average drivers, and frequent drivers. Additionally, spontaneous charging without a contract at AC (alternating current) and HPC charging stations was considered. The calculations were based on prices and terms as of September 18, 2026.

For overnight parkers, Mercedes leads with the MB.Charge Public L rate. The calculated annual charging cost is 1043 euros. With Vattenfall’s most expensive option, it rises to 1852 euros, representing a difference of 809 euros.

For average drivers, EWE Go is the cheapest choice. The calculated annual cost here is 372 euros. Among frequent drivers, Mercedes once again takes the lead. With MB.Charge Public M, the cost is 1790 euros per year, while the ADAC eCharge rate amounts to 2425 euros.

There are also significant price differences even when charging spontaneously. In terms of AC charging, Aldi Süd, Kaufland, and Lidl share the top spot in the tests. For fast charging, Aldi Süd leads.

According to the organizers, the test shows that there is no universally best charging rate. What matters most is individual charging behavior, the proportion of public charging, and the prices for AC and fast charging. Those who charge regularly at public stations can save several hundred euros per year by choosing the right rate plan.

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About the author

Thomas Langenbucher is an expert in electromobility with professional experience in the automotive industry and finance sector. Since 2011, he has been covering electric vehicles, sustainable technologies, and mobility solutions for ecomento.de. Learn more.

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