In a world where electromobility is becoming increasingly important, the need to have an efficient electric charging card is essential. The rise of electric vehicles is pushing many drivers to learn about the different options that exist for recharging their vehicle away from home. Between the different cards offered on the market, it is sometimes difficult to find your way. Here’s a look at the five most relevant electric charging cards, highlighting their features, advantages and disadvantages.
What are the essentials regarding electric recharge cards?
Electric charging cards present themselves as essential tools for motorists. Thanks to them, it is possible to recharge your electric vehicle at public terminals. In France, 80% of public terminals do not yet have a bank card reader, making these cards essential. Here is a summary table of the key characteristics of certain recharge cards
| Map | Purchase price | Top-up fees | Charging points in France | Charging points in Europe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chargemap Pass | €19.90 | 10% charge price | 110,000 | 513 230 |
| Charge + TotalEnergies | €19.90 | 0 € on TotalEnergies | 100,000 | _ |
| Fully | €9.90 | €0.70 per charge | 85,000 | 290,000 |
| Shell Recharge | Free | €0.35 per charge | 68,000 | 600,000 |
| Izivia Le Pass | €15 | €1 per charge | 130,000 | 300,000 |
Why are recharge cards necessary?
Current regulations, in particular those dictated by AFIR (Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation), require that all charging stations be equipped with a bank card reader, but, in 2025, this compliance remains largely incomplete. This means that for many users, doing without a recharge card is simply impossible. The diversity of criteria to take into account – whether cost, network coverage or usage fees – makes choosing a card suited to your needs a real challenge.
Chargemap Pass: the essential tool
Upon its launch on the market in 2017, the Chargemap Pass has quickly become one of the most universal recharge cards. A true pioneer, it offers significant advantages.
- 🔌 Accessibility: Compatible with more than 110,000 charging points in France.
- 💸 Entrance fee: Available to users for €19.90 without subscription.
- 🗺️ Application : Allows you to plan journeys and optimize charging stops.
However, user fees should not be overlooked. Approximately 10% of the total recharge amount can quickly add to the bill. In terms of user experience, the Chargemap application is widely acclaimed for its ease of use and interesting features. Users can find real-time information regarding available terminals as well as vehicle charging status.
Charge + from TotalEnergies: the advantageous option
There Charge + card of TotalEnergies represents an accessible option for anyone wishing to recharge their vehicle while benefiting from extended coverage.
- 💵 Cost : Priced at €19.90 without subscription, with a Comfort version at €2 per month.
- 📈 Economy : 5% reduction on TotalEnergies terminals.
- 🕵️♂️ Problematic transparency: Little information on additional fees for other networks.
With 100,000 recharge points in France, this card can be a wise choice. However, the vagueness regarding additional costs on third-party terminal relays could pose a problem. To discuss this in more detail, it is worth comparing the options to better understand the fees that can accumulate.
Shell Recharge: simplicity internationally
There Shell Recharge card emerges as an ideal solution, offering compatibility with more than 500,000 terminals in more than 33 European countries. The simplicity of its use comes with a fixed commission of €0.35 per connection to a partner network, making this card a realistic option for frequent users.
- 🌍 Accessibility: Compatible with terminals throughout Europe, including Germany and Benelux.
- 🚫 No subscription: An inclusive choice for all drivers.
- 📲 Dedicated application: Allows you to locate nearby terminals and view prices.
A cap of 20 transactions per month provides some flexibility, but may not satisfy casual users. Through this system, Shell demonstrates that it is possible to offer a simple and effective card, inspiring both confidence and functionality.
Fulli: the card that combines electronic toll collection and recharge
The map Fully, formerly known as KiWhi Pass, stands out for its accessible prices and the possibility of combining charging with an electronic toll service.
- 🔄 Multi-use: Available without subscription or with a price of €24 per year.
- ⬇️ Savings: An optimized price with recharge fees of €0.35 instead of €0.70.
- 🗺️ Application : Offering the ability to locate charging stations and their prices in real time.
This innovative approach allows users to combine various essential functions on a single card. Users can thus reduce their costs while enjoying greater flexibility during their journeys.
Izivia Le Pass: the ally of large cities
A subsidiary of EDF, the Izivia Pass positions itself as a choice for anyone looking to charge in strategic locations.
- 🏙️ Accessibility: Access to 130,000 charging points, including charging stations in Q Park parking lots.
- ⚡ Clear pricing: €1 per charge, with an app that facilitates real-time monitoring.
- 🛤️ Optimized itinerary: Ability to generate a route including charging stops.
As a fervent advocate of the energy transition, Izivia offers services that adapt to user needs. In addition, the app allows drivers to obtain real-time information on charging station availability, adding a touch of convenience to the charging process.
The Challenges of Plug & Charge Technology
With the arrival of Plug & Charge technology, a significant advancement is on the horizon. This innovative system allows the car to communicate directly with the charging station, automatically. This concept promises to radically simplify the user experience. 🧩Interoperability:
- Eliminates the need for physical cards or apps. 📞 Automatic Identification:
- The car identifies itself, greatly facilitating access to stations. 💳 Simplicity:
- Direct billing, avoiding the complications of fees. This technological revolution could significantly change the way users approach charging their vehicles. Therefore, it would be wise to monitor the progress developers and operators are making in developing this feature. FAQ on Electric Charging Cards
What is an electric charging card?
An electric charging card is a device that allows you to charge an electric vehicle at public charging stations, ensuring easy access to energy.
Why is it necessary to have multiple charging cards?
The diversity of networks, as well as the user fees for each card, often makes it essential to have several cards to cover all your charging needs.
Are all charging cards free?
No. Although some cards are free, fees may apply for using the stations, as well as periodic management fees.
What criteria should you consider when choosing your charging card? It’s worth considering the card’s purchase cost, top-up fees, network coverage, and the features of the associated app.
Will Plug & Charge technology replace all cards?
That remains to be seen, but it offers an interesting future, especially in terms of ease of use and smart payment.