Unplanned charging of electric vehicles on highways costlier than with a contract, reveals ADAC - Electrified vehicles charging spontaneously on highways through ADAC is costlier compared to when using contracts.
In the rapidly expanding world of electric vehicles (EVs), the Automobile Club of Germany (ADAC) has raised concerns over the cost of spontaneous charging on highways. According to recent findings, ad-hoc charging can be up to 62% more expensive than charging with a contract or subscription plan.
The primary reason for these higher prices is a lack of transparency, user-friendliness, and the premium suppliers charge for immediate access without a subscription. For instance, customers paying for spontaneous charging at EWE Go are charged 84 cents per kilowatt-hour, while those with a contract pay only 52 cents. Similarly, at EnBW, the highest price for spontaneous charging is 87 cents per kilowatt-hour, compared to 59 cents with a contract.
ADAC points out that the absence of a contract or subscription means users do not benefit from discounted rates negotiated for regular customers. Operators also factor in increased administrative and payment processing costs for one-off users. The lack of loyalty or volume commitments leads providers to charge a premium for immediate, pay-as-you-go convenience. Furthermore, non-transparent pricing and variable tariff structures can further increase costs for ad-hoc customers.
The ADAC has criticised the "pre-authorization fee" of up to 150 euros charged by some operators for electric car charging. This fee is charged before each charging process, and the difference from the pre-authorization fee is only refunded to the customer's bank account days later.
In an effort to address these issues, the ADAC has demanded the establishment of a "market transparency office for ad-hoc charging prices" at the Federal Cartel Office. Such an office has proven effective "on the fuel market" and would benefit consumers for charging electricity, according to the ADAC.
Moreover, the ADAC has highlighted stark differences in prices for spontaneous charging of electric cars on highways. They emphasise the importance of low-threshold access and uncomplicated charging with a debit or credit card for the growth of electromobility.
Currently, Citywatt and EAM offer the cheapest prices for spontaneous charging, with customers paying 64 cents per kilowatt-hour without a contract. As the EV market continues to evolve, it is crucial for providers to ensure fair and transparent pricing to encourage widespread adoption of electric vehicles.
The Commission, in light of the complications in the market for ad-hoc charging of electric vehicles, might consider consulting on the integration of technology to facilitate transparency, user-friendliness, and affordable pricing. The lack of competition in this sector, similar to certain foodstuff labeling laws, could lead to price discrepancies and exploitation of consumers.
