Lidl Charging Charging Guide

First Time Charging with Lidl Charging?

Here is what you need to know before your first session.

• Download the Lidl Charging app or have a contactless bank card ready. Payment options include app, contactless.
• Check which connector your car uses. Lidl Charging stations have CCS2 connectors.
• Plug in first, then authorize. Most Lidl Charging chargers require you to connect the cable before starting the session.
• If the screen shows a message you do not understand, the EVcourse app can read it for you. It works with any charger screen, any language.

Understanding Lidl Charging Pricing

Charging network pricing is more complex than it looks. The per-kWh rate shown in the app or on the charger is not always the full cost. Here is what to watch for.

Extra Charges to Watch For

The per-kWh price is not always the full picture. These additional fees can add up, especially on short sessions or when you forget to unplug.

• → Idle fees. Many DC fast chargers charge per minute once your battery is full but the car is still plugged in. This can be €0.10-0.50 per minute. Set a reminder to move your car when charging is done.
• → Session start fees. Some networks charge a flat fee (€0.50-2.00) just to start a session, on top of the per-kWh rate. This hits harder on short top-up sessions.
• → Per-minute billing. Some chargers bill per minute instead of per kWh. If your car charges slowly (cold battery, high state of charge, or an older model), per-minute billing is much more expensive. Check the billing model before you plug in.
• → Time-of-day pricing. Some networks charge more during peak hours (daytime) and less at night. If you have flexibility, charging off-peak can save money. For example, some networks have an idle fee only during business hours.

Coverage

Lidl Charging operates in the following countries. Tap a country for local pricing details. You can also find Lidl Charging charger locations on PlugShare or Open Charge Map.

How to Pay at Lidl Charging

Lidl Charging supports the following payment methods. Availability may vary by location.

• Lidl Charging app. Download the app, create an account, and add a payment method. Start and stop charging sessions from your phone.
• Contactless payment. Tap your bank card or phone (Apple Pay, Google Pay) directly on the charger. No account needed. The simplest option, but sometimes at a slightly higher rate.

Tips for Charging at Lidl Charging

• Lidl Charging policies vary by country and store. Some locations offer free charging while others charge a per-kWh fee. Check the app or signage at the location for current terms.
• Payment is through the app or contactless where available. Set up the app before your first visit to avoid delays.
• Do not rely on Lidl chargers as your primary charging strategy. They are a convenient bonus while shopping, not a replacement for a dedicated charging network.
• Chargers are located in store parking lots, so they can be blocked by non-EV vehicles in some countries where enforcement is weak.
• If the charger shows as occupied in the app, it is worth checking in person. Sometimes the status is outdated.

Common Issues with Lidl Charging

• Charging policies vary by country and can change. Free charging has been discontinued at many locations in favor of paid sessions.
• Sessions may have time limits. If your shopping trip runs long, your session may stop before you expected.
• Charger availability is limited, typically 2 to 4 stalls per store. Popular locations can be fully occupied during peak hours.
• Connector cables can be short at some locations, making it tricky to park and plug in depending on your car's charge port position.

Charger Not Working?

If a Lidl Charging charger will not start, charges too slowly, or gives an error, check our Lidl Charging troubleshooting guide for network-specific fixes. Or see the general troubleshooting guide for step-by-step help with any charger.

You can also report the issue through the Lidl Charging app. Reporting broken chargers helps the network fix them faster and helps other drivers avoid the same problem.