Last updated on April 8th, 2020 at 07:57 pm
Audi has announced that it is launching its one-card charging service in the UK – the German automaker is the first to launch a service that incorporates over 134,000 charging stations, which pan across 24 European countries.
Charging an electric vehicle for the first time can be daunting – there is a multitude of different suppliers to choose from, many charger types and locations that operate on variable tariffs. To simplify the process, owners of Audi models can now plug and pay at hundreds of charge points with a single tap of a card, without having to worry about signing to a set supplier.
“The general perception of EV charging is that it is confusing and inconvenient, and we want to help to gradually dispel that belief,” said Andrew Doyle, Director of Audi UK. “We started by equipping the e-tron with the potential for fast charging at up to 150kW, and are now removing another layer of complexity for our EV owners by streamlining the end-to-end process, from charging activation to invoicing, with this new service.”
The key to the service comes in the form of an RFID card, which grants access to 18 companies that operate within the UK, such as: Ionity, Pod Point, Source London and Instavolt, and makes it easier to use both domestically and abroad with the help of two fixed tariffs: City and Transit.
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The City tariff is aimed at drivers who cover shorter distances. It costs £4.95 per month, where customers pay a standardised rate of £0.30/kWh for AC charging and £0.39/kWh for DC fast-charging. When charging at a Source London AC point, 7.4kW charging points are priced at £0.08/min, while 22KW costs £0.14/min. There is also no charge for using the e-tron Charging Services card to charge at free charging stations.
The Transit tariff is aimed at those who spend more time on the motorways and require a much faster charge. It costs £16.95 per month, which includes the high-powered 150 kW Ionity chargers, which will recharge a compatible vehicle to 80% in just 30 minutes. This will be available at a flat rate of £0.28/kWh; some 60% cheaper than being on the standard Ionity tariff.
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Better still, e-tron owners will receive the Transit tariff free for the first 12 months. Pricing at other AC and DC stations (including Source London) remains the same as the City tariff. The latter type of customer can still use high-speed chargers such as the Ionity ones, however, will be charged the standard, more expensive rate.
The myAudi app will serve as the perfect companion to the service, as it can be used to locate and even activate certain charging stations; Audi owners will also be able to use the in-car MMI navigation system to locate their nearest compatible charger.
Customers wishing to take advantage of the Audi e-tron Charging Service can learn more or sign up via the manufacturer's website.