From closed to open: how are EV charging payments changing?

What were EV charging payments like in the early days?

Early public charging networks operated as closed systems that required dedicated charge cards or network-specific apps. When public charging infrastructure first started appearing across Europe, the market was still relatively small. Most charging networks operated as closed systems, meaning access was controlled through dedicated RFID charge cards or network-specific apps. This wasn't necessarily a problem at the time. There were fewer EVs on the road, fewer charging stations, and most drivers charged close to home. As electric mobility grew, however, the limitations of these closed systems became increasingly obvious. Imagine arriving at a charging station only to discover that you needed a specific charge card that you didn't have. Or being forced to download yet another app just to start a charging session. For many drivers, this became one of the biggest frustrations of public charging.

How is the EV charging industry moving towards open payments?

The industry is adopting open payment methods through roaming and regulations such as the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR). To meet these expectations, the EV charging industry gradually started opening up. Roaming networks expanded, making it possible to use a single charging contract across multiple charging operators. This was an important step because it reduced the dependence on individual networks. More recently, regulations such as AFIR accelerated this transition even further. Today, many public fast charging stations are required to offer ad hoc payment options, allowing drivers to charge without a subscription or dedicated charging card. This means drivers increasingly have the freedom to choose how they pay.

As more operators introduce these payment methods, many also rely on integrated payment solutions such as Road to manage transactions across multiple payment channels.

Why did drivers start expecting more flexible payment options?

Drivers expected charging to offer the same payment convenience they already experienced elsewhere. The way we pay for things has changed dramatically over the last decade. Most people no longer think twice about paying with their phone, smartwatch, or contactless bank card. Digital wallets have become part of everyday life. As consumers became accustomed to these payment methods elsewhere, they naturally expected the same convenience when charging their vehicles. After all, nobody wants to carry a wallet full of different cards just in case they need to charge. Drivers simply want to arrive, plug in, pay, and continue their journey.

Why do open payments improve the charging experience?

Open payments reduce friction and make charging feel more familiar. At first glance, adding more payment methods might not seem like a major development. In reality, it changes the entire charging experience. When drivers know they can pay with a contactless card, phone, app, or charging card, charging becomes less stressful. There is less planning involved, fewer barriers to access, and more confidence that a charging session will work when needed. This is especially important for drivers travelling across borders or using charging stations they have never visited before. The less drivers need to think about payments, the more natural charging becomes, and charging will feel as familiar as paying at the grocery store.

One of the biggest challenges for the EV industry has always been making charging feel as straightforward as other everyday activities. While charging an EV will never be identical to refuelling a petrol vehicle, the payment experience is becoming increasingly familiar. Drivers no longer need specialised knowledge or a collection of charging cards just to access public infrastructure. Instead, they can use payment methods they already know and trust.

What comes next for EV charging payments?

The industry is moving towards a future where charging feels effortless regardless of location or payment method. The shift from closed to open payments is still ongoing. As charging networks continue to expand and EV adoption grows, drivers will increasingly expect a consistent experience regardless of where they charge, which network operates the station, or which country they are travelling through.

The goal is simple: charging should feel effortless. The best payment experience is the one drivers never have to think about. And compared to just a few years ago, the industry is getting much closer to making that a reality.

Discover how Road simplifies EV charging payments

As drivers expect more flexible payment options, operators need payment infrastructure that is reliable, scalable and easy to manage. Road helps CPOs support multiple payment methods while delivering a seamless charging experience.