What is Ad Hoc Charging?

Benefits of Ad Hoc Charging

With Ad Hoc Charging, drivers can charge their vehicles spontaneously (i.e., ad hoc) at charging stations without needing to register or commit to a contract with the operator beforehand. Since 2017, the right to Ad Hoc Charging has been enshrined in the Charging Station Ordinance (LSV), enabling non-discriminatory charging. Payment is made directly before or after the charging session at an integrated payment terminal, either via debit or credit card, or online through the operator’s website. No charging card or specific app is required.

However, Ad Hoc Charging is generally more expensive than a fixed contract rate. The cost of one kilowatt-hour of energy can be twice as high without a charging contract. Since the introduction of the calibration law in public charging, billing is based on kilowatt-hours rather than time. Charging at fast charging points (DC charging stations) is also more expensive than at AC normal charging stations (AC-DC charging – what’s the difference?).

In some countries, Ad Hoc Charging may be the more affordable option. German charging providers often charge fees for eRoaming in other countries if drivers wish to use their provided charging card at non-German stations. Ad-hoc payments via app or debit/credit card at the charging station are typically cheaper.

How Does Ad Hoc Charging Work?

Unrestricted charging without prior registration is often facilitated via a QR code attached to the charging station. This code can be scanned with a smartphone’s camera, directing the driver to the provider’s website. The driver then enters payment details, and the charging session is activated. The station operator reserves a small amount on the provided credit card at the start to verify its validity, and any excess is adjusted after the charging session is completed.

Drivers who have a contract with a provider can also charge at third-party charging points using their provided charging card, as long as the station operator has enabled the station for public charging. There are various roaming networks that allow users to access other providers’ stations with their usual charging card.

The Future of Ad Hoc Charging

In the future, authentication at charging stations will take place directly through the vehicle’s electronics, meaning drivers will pre-register payment methods in their car’s system. This will make Ad Hoc Charging easier, as there will be no need for a cumbersome sign-in at the station. The vehicle and charging station will simply exchange status, process, and payment data via the charging cable.

The implementation of this intelligent charging infrastructure comes with challenges: car manufacturers, energy providers, and payment service providers have their own standards and requirements for the corresponding data. The charging station technology must ensure that the correct data formats are followed and, if necessary, translate data between different systems.

With intelligent charging stations and cables, along with the growing integration of widespread charging networks, we are on the right path towards truly barrier-free charging.