How to Find a Public Charging Station in a Few Steps
Introduction
With the expansion of public charging infrastructure, finding a charging station has never been easier. In this guide, we will show you how to quickly and easily locate a charging station using various resources and tools at your disposal. Whether you are traveling or in the city, with these simple steps, you will always have control over your range and be ready to recharge in any situation.
Table of contents
Use Dedicated Apps
There are several specific applications for finding electric charging stations.
You can use myAtlante app to locate all the stations in the Atlante network, charge your vehicle through the app in a few simple steps, and access benefits reserved for Atlante customers.
Additionally, you can use one of the following apps:
- PlugShare: One of the most widely used apps globally, it allows you to find nearby charging stations, filter by connector type, and view user reviews.
- Nextcharge: Another popular app that offers an interactive map of charging stations, real-time availability information, and also allows payment directly through the app.
- Electroverse: An app that offers a global network of charging stations with an interactive map, filters for connector type and charging speed. It allows payments directly from the app and supports RFID for quick access to compatible stations via the app.
- Chargemap: Provides a detailed map with all available charging stations, including information on rates, plug types, and charging speeds.
- Google Maps: Google Maps now also includes the ability to search for electric vehicle charging stations. Just enter “charging station” or “charging point” in the search bar.
- Telepass: The Telepass app allows you to quickly find the nearest affiliated station to recharge your vehicle throughout Italy.
Car Navigation Systems
Many electric cars come equipped with integrated navigation systems that include a feature to find nearby charging stations. These systems can be updated in real-time to show the availability of stations and plan routes that include charging stops.
Web Portals
There are several websites that offer interactive maps to find charging stations:
- Atlante Website: In addition to the app, the Atlante website provides a detailed map of Atlante charging stations throughout Italy, France, Spain, and Portugal
- OpenChargeMap: An open-source platform that offers a global map of charging stations, with detailed information on each point.
Satellite Navigation
If you prefer not to use the car’s integrated navigation system, some satellite navigators, like those from TomTom and Garmin, already include electric vehicle charging stations as points of interest (POI). These devices can be updated with maps and POIs to keep track of new stations.
Check Social Media and Forums
Many online groups and communities, such as EV user forums on Facebook, Reddit, or other platforms, regularly share updated information about new charging stations, reviews, and practical tips on where to charge efficiently.
Utilize Charging Cards Features
Many charging service providers offer cards or RFID tags that allow you to access a wide network of stations and activate charging at compatible points. You can request your Atlante RFID card through the myAtlante app to access the entire Atlante charging network. Additionally, you can request an RFID card through electric mobility apps like Chargemap, Nextcharge, and Electroverse.
Explore Locally
Finally, don’t underestimate the value of simple local exploration. Many cities and shopping centers are increasingly installing charging stations in public parking lots, supermarkets, hotels, and service areas. It might be useful to familiarize yourself with the locations closest to home or work.
Information from Municipalities or Districts
Some municipalities and districts publish information about available public charging infrastructure on their websites. Checking institutional portals can provide you with precise and up-to-date information.
Conclusion
Finding a public charging station has become increasingly easy thanks to the spread of apps, web portals, and navigation systems. By using these tools, you’ll always be able to quickly locate the nearest and most suitable charging station for your needs, ensuring a smooth drive without worrying about running out of power.