Charging infrastructure changes frequently. Check your preferred charging app for current station availability and pricing.
Overview
Charging infrastructure in Aachen is growing steadily. 9+ networks operate across Germany, and most are available here. Here is what you need to know to charge your EV.
Charging Networks
Aachen is served by the major charging networks in Germany. The most common include Ionity, EnBW mobility+, Shell Recharge, and 5 more.
Ionity
Up to 350 kW · CCS2 · ~€0.75/kWh
EnBW mobility+
Up to 300 kW · CCS2 · ~€0.49/kWh
Shell Recharge
Up to 300 kW · CCS2, CHAdeMO · ~€0.64/kWh
Fastned
Up to 400 kW · CCS2, CHAdeMO · ~€0.59/kWh
Allego
Up to 350 kW · CCS2, CHAdeMO · ~€0.69/kWh
ChargePoint
Up to 350 kW · CCS2 · ~€0.55/kWh
Electra
Up to 300 kW · CCS2 · ~€0.5/kWh
Tesla Supercharger
Up to 250 kW · CCS2 · ~€0.55/kWh
Aral Pulse
Local or regional network
Payment Methods
Most charging networks in Aachen accept app-based payment. Download the network's app, link a payment method, and start the session from your phone. Many newer stations also accept contactless bank cards (Visa, Mastercard tap-to-pay). Some networks offer RFID cards for frequent users, but these need to be ordered in advance.
Recommended roaming services
A roaming service lets you charge across multiple networks with one app or account. In Germany, the most useful are:
- Shell Recharge
- EnBW mobility+
- Plugsurfing
- DKV
Plug Standard
Germany uses Type 2 / CCS2 as the standard connector. Type 2 is used for AC charging (up to 22 kW at most public stations), and CCS2 (Combined Charging System) is the standard for DC fast charging.
Tesla vehicles in Europe also use CCS2, so you can charge at any public station. Older CHAdeMO connectors are becoming rare but still available at some locations.
Pricing
- Average DC fast charging
- ~€0.59/kWh
- Average home electricity
- ~€0.33/kWh
Prices are approximate national averages for Germany. Actual costs in Aachen vary by network, time of day, charger speed, and whether you use a subscription plan or pay-as-you-go rates.
Public charging in Germany typically costs around €0.59/kWh for DC fast charging. AC charging is often cheaper, and some networks offer monthly subscription plans that lower the per-kWh rate.
Tips for Charging in Aachen
- Check charger availability in your charging network's app before driving to a station. Apps like Ionity, Shell Recharge, or your local network show real-time status so you avoid arriving at a broken or occupied charger.
- Many hotels and parking garages offer destination chargers. If you are visiting, look for accommodation with on-site charging to charge overnight.
- Idle fees are common in Germany. Move your car promptly once charging finishes to avoid extra charges. Most apps will notify you when the session is complete.
- Download at least two charging apps before you arrive. Not every charger works with every app, and having a backup avoids frustration.
Terms You Might See
Charger screens and apps use terms that can be confusing. Here are the most common ones.
kW (Kilowatt)
How fast your car is charging right now
kWh (Kilowatt-hour)
How much energy has been delivered
CCS2
The DC fast charging connector used in Europe
Roaming Card
One card or app that works across multiple networks
CPO
Charge Point Operator, the company running the charger
Idle Fee
Extra charge if you stay plugged in after charging ends
Ad-hoc Charging
Pay per session without a subscription or account
SoC (State of Charge)
Your battery percentage
Charging help at your fingertips
Stuck at a charger in Aachen? The free EVcourse app has step-by-step troubleshooting for 100+ real charging problems.
Available on iOS and Android.
More in Germany
Stuck at the charger? Open the app.
Step-by-step help for real charging problems. Log the experience. Free on iOS and Android.
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