In the dynamic and evolving e-mobility landscape, the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) marks a significant shift with its aim to set a comprehensive European regulatory framework for the electric vehicle charging infrastructure industry. The regulation sets forth a level playing field across the European Union for deploying public EV charging infrastructure, aiming to provide drivers with a unified experience across the continent.
ChargePoint, an industry-leading EV-solution hardware and software technology company, is committed to constantly improving driver experience and ensuring our customers have the best technology available for their drivers. Our focus is not only to comply with these regulatory changes but to innovate and lead, and that our solutions meet and exceed the expectations of the new era in zero-emission transport.
What is AFIR?
AFIR, which takes effect in April 2024, is a unified and ambitious strategy to overcome challenges faced in the transition to electric transportation within the EU, such as uneven development, interoperability issues and user experience. The regulation directs EU member countries to establish a more cohesive public charging network across Europe. It also sets minimum technology requirements to ensure drivers have a consistent and seamless charging experience.
It aligns with the climate goals of the European Green Deal to ensure that EV infrastructure will be uniformly deployed in line with the foreseen growth in EVs in the coming years. AFIR will have wide-ranging implications for where and how public charging infrastructure is placed. It also increases the bar as to what a public-facing AC charger must be able to do to make charging easy and accessible for drivers. ChargePoint has been at the forefront of this transition since 2007. Our response involves adapting our offerings to align with these changes, expanding our network to meet and exceed the new standards and actively collaborating with various stakeholders to facilitate a smoother and more efficient e-mobility transition.
What you should know
The technology requirements in AFIR are designed to improve the EV driver experience at public charging stations and to ensure consistency no matter where they charge. These requirements are good for the industry as they will give drivers the confidence to switch to EVs and fuel with electricity. If you operate AC chargers, two key aspects of the new regulation will impact you, whether your stations are at a supermarket, public parking garage, on the street or elsewhere.
Payment Options
First, the regulation stipulates that drivers are able to pay for charging using multiple payment options. In addition, it sets technology standards that allow drivers to use payment cards, such as credit or debit cards, to pay for a charge.
For charging points installed after 13 April 2024, AFIR requires newly installed public AC charging stations to accept card payment via payment terminals, uniquely generated QR codes or integrated payment card readers such as those with contactless payment functionality like our ChargePoint 6000 (CP6000) solution.
This means that pin pads are not required if payment is made via a device with contactless payment capabilities. AC station operators who wish to allow payment via QR codes will no longer be able to use static QR code stickers. Instead, they must provide a uniquely generated QR code.
The requirements in AFIR echo what we at ChargePoint have known for years — EV drivers want payment options for charging, including the ability to pay with payment cards such as credit cards. That is why contactless payment technology has been a core feature of our public AC technology offerings. AFIR requirements ensure that drivers can trust that wherever they go, they can pay using a variety of transparent payment methods.
Enhanced Transparency
To ensure an EV driver who pulls up to a station has full transparency into the fees that will be applied to their charging session, AFIR requires that ad hoc prices (i.e., prices set by the charging station operator) are clearly displayed and readily available to drivers. More specifically, it requires all charging fees (including all price components such as kWh fees, per session fees or any other applicable fees) must be clearly communicated and easily understood by drivers.
ChargePoint customers already have all these pricing options built into their ChargePoint Cloud Application. They can easily set fees with the pricing tool and display those fees and requisite components on the CP6000’s screen, which is easy for drivers to see and access when they pull up to a station.
How we help you to run a smooth, compliant EV charging operation
At ChargePoint, we want to ensure you have access to the most compliant solutions in the industry. Our CP6000 is already compliant with the payment requirements outlined by AFIR, offering a hassle-free charging experience. Everything is included in the device to meet the AFIR requirements, such as transparent pricing info on the screen, contactless payments, smart charging functionality and more. Below, we have summarized the most essential AFIR requirements and how the CP6000 complies.
| Payments | ChargePoint CP6K |
|---|---|
| Payment terminal (integrated) | Yes, fully integrated |
| Contactless payment functionality | Yes, fully integrated |
| Pricing information | |
| Display ad hoc price per kWh (in the following order) | Yes |
|
Yes |
| Connectivity | |
| Fully digitally connected | Yes |
| Smart recharging | Yes |
| Authentication | Yes |
The CP6000 is a software-driven charging solution that seamlessly integrates network software and station hardware to provide a superior user experience. It offers a large 20 cm display for ease of use, integrated cable management and a rugged, modular design for enhanced reliability and performance.
With a wide range of station options, including pedestal or wall mounting and dual port configuration, the CP6000 helps station owners maximize their charging operations.
Enhanced software features, such as Waitlist and Power Management, reduce operational challenges, keep stations in use and improve driver satisfaction.
Our vision for the future is clear. ChargePoint aims to be a leading player in developing and producing comprehensive, connected and sustainable alternative fuel infrastructure across the EU. Our efforts are geared towards innovation, collaboration and leadership, helping to drive the transition to alternative fuels and shaping the future of transportation in the region. Get in touch to transform your own charging experience.
