EV charging infrastructure expands across Germany and Austria

Developments in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure are accelerating across Germany and Austria. In Germany, data from the Bundesnetzagentur shows a significant increase in public charging points, with over 209,000 registered as of September 1. Stuttgart remains the leader in charging density, while cities like Schwabach have seen triple-digit growth.

To support private infrastructure, the German Federal Ministry of Transport is offering up to 500 million euros in subsidies for charging points in multi-family residential buildings. Additionally, a new mobile app, ‘Ad-Hoc Map’, has been updated to help drivers locate fast chargers that allow for direct payment without prior registration.

Legal shifts may also impact costs. A ruling by the Landgericht München I regarding a dispute between Digital Charging Solutions and EWE Go found that excessive roaming surcharges are disproportionate. This decision could potentially lead to lower prices for EV drivers using third-party charging networks. Meanwhile, in Austria, a new high-power charging hub has opened in St. Michael, featuring ten 400 kW charging points and integrated amenities like a lounge and solar power support.