The demand for electric vehicles (EVs) is surging across London, thanks to the city’s ambitious goals to reduce emissions and create a sustainable urban transport system. As congestion charges, ULEZ expansion, and climate policies influence motorists to go electric, the need for reliable, accessible, and efficient EV charging solutions becomes paramount.
This guide provides a detailed overview of the top 10 electric car charging station companies in London. It also explores what makes these companies stand out in an increasingly competitive space, how they support users across different parts of the city, and what to expect as London’s EV infrastructure evolves.
What Makes a Good EV Charging Station Company in London?
Network Availability and Accessibility
A top-tier EV charging company ensures wide geographic coverage and 24/7 accessibility. In a city like London, where parking is limited and urban density is high, the ease of locating and using a charging point can make or break the EV experience.
- BP Pulse leads with a vast network that spans public car parks, residential areas, and commercial hubs.
- Ubitricity‘s use of existing infrastructure like street lampposts allows for seamless residential access in boroughs like Westminster and Camden.
The most successful networks integrate with navigation apps, offer live charger status updates, and show whether a station is available or in use, minimising waiting times and uncertainty.
Charging Speed and Technology
The range of charging speeds is critical, especially for users who rely on quick top-ups during the day or overnight home charging.
| Charging Type | Speed (kW) | Time to 80% Charge* | Common Use Case |
| Level 2 | 3–22 kW | 4–8 hours | Home & Workplace Charging |
| Rapid Charging | 50 kW+ | 30–60 minutes | Shopping, Short Stops |
| Ultra-Rapid Charging | 100–350 kW | 20–30 minutes | Motorways & Long-Distance Use |
Charging duration can differ significantly based on the electric vehicle’s battery size and current level of charge.
Instavolt and Fastned offer some of the most powerful chargers in the UK market, enabling city dwellers and long-distance drivers to recharge quickly and efficiently.
Pricing Transparency
Cost is a major consideration for regular EV drivers. Reliable companies offer clear, upfront pricing models.
- Pod Point allows pay-as-you-go or contactless payments at retail locations.
- ChargePoint supports fleet billing and monthly subscriptions.
Some providers, like Shell Recharge, combine free loyalty rewards with usage, encouraging brand loyalty. A good network also avoids hidden fees like minimum usage charges or “overstay” penalties.
Where Can You Find EV Charging Points in London?
High-Demand Locations and Trends
Charging stations are strategically located to serve residential areas, retail parks, and major commuting corridors.
| Location Type | Common Providers | Example Areas |
| Public Car Parks | BP Pulse, Pod Point | Soho, Holborn, Southbank |
| Residential Streets | Ubitricity | Westminster, Chelsea, Hackney |
| Retail Shopping Zones | Instavolt, Pod Point | Brent Cross, Westfield |
| Petrol Stations | Shell Recharge, BP Pulse | Ealing, Stratford, Paddington |
| Hotels and Hospitality | RAW Charging | Kensington, Heathrow, City |
By 2024, London boroughs collectively reported over 15,000 public charging stations, with targets set to double this figure by 2030.
Navigation & Apps
Apps like Zap-Map, PlugShare, and company-specific apps help users locate real-time charging availability, filter by connector type, and even get directions or updates if a charger goes offline.
What Are the Top 10 Electric Car Charging Station Companies in London?
1. BP Pulse – “Powering London’s Commute”
BP Pulse is one of the UK’s largest and most recognised EV charging networks. With a strong footprint across London, it offers a mix of rapid, ultra-rapid, and destination charging options.
Owned by British Petroleum, this network benefits from long-standing infrastructure partnerships and is frequently found in public car parks, business hubs, and near petrol stations. Users can access chargers via the BP Pulse app or RFID card, and membership options offer substantial cost savings for frequent users.
Standout Feature
Excellent availability in both central and suburban London areas.
Ideal User
Perfect for daily commuters needing fast, reliable charging.
Pricing: £0.44–£0.79/kWh depending on speed and plan. Membership available from £7.85/month.
- Website: www.bppulse.com
- Phone: 0330 016 5126
- Address: Multiple locations across Greater London
- Email: info@bppulse.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆ – “Always reliable and easy to locate, especially during peak hours.”
2. Pod Point – “Charging Where You Shop”
Pod Point is known for its strategic installations in shopping centres, retail parks, and residential buildings. It offers a balance between home charging and public access, making it a go-to for drivers who prefer to charge while they shop or dine.
Pod Point, supported by EDF Energy, has earned trust among London EV users thanks to its easy-to-use mobile platform and presence in popular city locations.
Core Strength
Highly integrated in retail and commercial zones.
Best Suited For
Great for families and casual users who charge during errands.
Pricing: Many sites are free; otherwise, £0.35–£0.45/kWh.
- Website: www.pod-point.com
- Phone: 020 7247 4114
- Address: Available at major Tesco, Lidl, and other retail car parks
- Email: support@pod-point.com
Review: ★★★★☆ – “Easy to use and usually available perfect for weekend top-ups.”
3. Shell Recharge – “EV Power Meets Petrol Station Convenience”
Shell Recharge offers EV charging at Shell petrol stations, blending the traditional refuelling experience with modern electric needs. The company’s high-speed charging stations are scattered throughout London, making them ideal for quick charges during daily commutes. Backed by one of the world’s most recognised energy brands, Shell Recharge brings reliability and strong customer service to the EV scene.
Key Highlight
Seamless integration with traditional fuel stations.
Well-Matched To
Busy professionals on the go who need rapid charging.
Pricing: £0.55–£0.79/kWh depending on charger type.
- Website: www.shellrecharge.com
- Phone: 0800 731 8888
- Address: Most Shell stations in Central and Greater London
- Email: customer-service@shellrecharge.com
Review: ★★★★☆ – “Convenient locations and fast service — usually my first choice when low on battery.”
4. Ubitricity – “Smart Charging From the Streetlamp”
Ubitricity is transforming how Londoners charge their EVs by turning lampposts into smart charging points. Designed for residential streets, this network is perfect for drivers without a private driveway or home charger. It’s a key player in making EV ownership feasible in central boroughs, especially Kensington and Westminster.
Unique Feature
Innovative use of lampposts as charging stations.
Tailored For
Urban residents who park on the street.
Pricing: Around £0.35–£0.39/kWh; pay-as-you-go.
- Website: www.ubitricity.com
- Phone: +49 30 208 983 020
- Address: Primarily in Central London boroughs
- Email: support@ubitricity.com
Review: ★★★★☆ – “Brilliant idea! It’s made street parking practical for EV drivers like me.”
5. Instavolt – “Ultra-Rapid Charging in Minutes”
Instavolt specialises in ultra-rapid charging and is known for its easy-to-use, contactless access. Found near major retailers, food chains, and travel hubs, Instavolt chargers are designed to deliver up to 80% charge in under 30 minutes.
The bright red and grey charging stations are hard to miss and are maintained to a high standard.
Strong Suit
Lightning-fast ultra-rapid charging capabilities.
Excellent Choice For
Long-distance drivers and quick top-up users.
Pricing: Flat rate of £0.85/kWh (as of 2025).
- Website: www.instavolt.co.uk
- Phone: 0808 281 4444
- Address: Locations at Starbucks, McDonald’s, and M&S Foodhalls
- Email: support@instavolt.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆ – “Super quick and reliable. Perfect when I’m on the clock.”
6. Tesla Superchargers – “The Gold Standard for Tesla Drivers”
Tesla Superchargers are purpose-built for Tesla owners, offering unmatched speed and integration with Tesla’s in-car navigation. While some sites are now open to other EV brands, the experience is still optimised for Tesla vehicles.
London’s Superchargers are strategically placed near highways, shopping centres, and luxury hotels.
Signature Trait
Exclusive and fastest for Tesla vehicles.
Best Fit
Tesla drivers who demand high-speed, seamless charging.
Pricing: £0.50–£0.78/kWh; varies by location and time.
- Website: www.tesla.com/supercharger
- Phone: 0162 845 0660
- Address: Canary Wharf, Heathrow, Brent Cross
- Email: supportuk@tesla.com
Review: ★★★★★ – “Flawless, fast, and always perfectly located.”
7. GRIDSERVE – “More Than Just a Charging Station”
GRIDSERVE combines EV charging with sustainability and user comfort. Their Electric Forecourts and motorway services include cafes, lounges, and even business meeting rooms all while your car charges with renewable energy. A true pioneer in EV infrastructure, GRIDSERVE represents the future of multi-purpose charging hubs.
Defining Characteristic
Holistic experience with green energy focus.
Target Audience
Eco-conscious drivers and business professionals.
Pricing: £0.66–£0.79/kWh depending on location.
- Website: www.gridserve.com
- Phone: 0333 123 5464
- Address: Braintree (nearest to London), M25 junctions
- Email: support@gridserve.com
Review: ★★★★☆ – “It’s like a mini airport lounge while your EV charges.”
8. ChargePoint – “Fleet-Ready and Feature-Rich”
ChargePoint operates one of the largest global EV networks and offers tailored solutions for fleets and businesses in London. Their stations feature advanced app connectivity, usage reporting, and fleet management tools. While less visible to the general public, ChargePoint is a powerful backbone for commercial EV adoption.
Highlighting Feature
Ideal for enterprise and commercial setups.
Right For
Corporate fleets and electric delivery services.
Pricing: Varies by operator; subscription available for businesses.
- Website: www.chargepoint.com
- Phone: 020 7516 5070
- Address: Business districts and logistics hubs
- Email: emea-support@chargepoint.com
Review: ★★★★☆ – “Reliable and easy to integrate into our delivery operations.”
9. Fastned – “Charging Made Simple, Fast, and Bright”
With its distinctive yellow-roofed stations, Fastned is making a name for itself across London’s major routes and service roads. The Dutch company is known for ultra-rapid charging and solar-powered infrastructure, appealing to eco-conscious drivers who value speed and sustainability.
Key Advantage
Solar-powered ultra-fast charging.
Perfect For
High-mileage drivers with green goals.
Pricing: £0.69–£0.79/kWh
- Website: www.fastned.co.uk
- Phone: +44 20 3318 1797
- Address: South Circular Road, A13, East London
- Email: support@fastned.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆ – “Modern, fast, and guilt-free charging.”
10. RAW Charging – “Hospitality Meets EV Convenience”
RAW Charging partners with hotels, shopping centres, and entertainment venues to bring discreet but effective EV charging to Londoners. Focused on seamless integration, it’s perfect for charging while attending events or staying overnight in the city. The company continues to expand its footprint through new commercial partnerships.
Prime Feature
Discreet installation at leisure and hospitality venues.
Great For
Hotel guests and retail visitors.
Pricing: Usually £0.45–£0.60/kWh depending on host site.
- Website: www.rawcharging.com
- Phone: 01491 524332
- Address: Shopping centres and hotels in Greater London
- Email: support@rawcharging.com
Review: ★★★☆☆ – “Good when staying overnight, but not always easy to find.”
Are All EV Charging Stations Compatible with Every Vehicle?
Understanding Plug Types and Vehicle Compatibility
EV charging connectors vary by car make and model. However, standardisation efforts have made most public stations highly accessible.
| Vehicle Model | Connector Type | Compatible Networks |
| Tesla Model Y | CCS / Tesla Type 2 | Tesla Supercharger, GRIDSERVE, Instavolt |
| Nissan Leaf | CHAdeMO / Type 1 | BP Pulse, Pod Point, ChargePoint |
| BMW i3 | CCS / Type 2 | Fastned, Pod Point, Shell Recharge |
| Kia e-Niro | CCS / Type 2 | Instavolt, Fastned, RAW Charging |
Charging companies like GRIDSERVE and BP Pulse often have multiple connectors per charging bay, allowing compatibility with a wide range of EVs.
What Kind of Services Do These Charging Networks Offer?
Value-Added Features and App Ecosystems
Aside from physical hardware, modern charging companies offer digital services that enhance user convenience.
- Real-Time Status: Apps from Shell, Instavolt, and GRIDSERVE show charger availability in real-time.
- Membership Plans: BP Pulse offers discounted rates for members, ideal for daily commuters.
- Customer Support: Pod Point and ChargePoint operate 24/7 helplines and live chat for troubleshooting.
- Loyalty Rewards: Shell Recharge offers Shell Go+ points for each kWh used.
Advanced users benefit from smart charging schedules, especially in residential setups, allowing off-peak electricity usage.
What’s the Future of Electric Vehicle Charging in London?
Smart, Scalable, and Sustainable Growth
London’s EV charging future is guided by policies such as the Mayor’s Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Delivery Plan, which aims to ensure:
- 40,000+ charge points by 2030
- Smart charging integration with local grids
- Incentives for private sector investments
Emerging technologies like vehicle-to-grid (V2G) will allow EVs to return electricity to the grid during high demand, turning cars into mobile energy assets.
Innovation on the Horizon
- Wireless Charging Trials: Being tested in boroughs like Westminster and Camden.
- AI Energy Management: Predictive algorithms will allocate energy based on city traffic flow.
- Retail Partnerships: Major supermarkets are collaborating with providers like Pod Point to install fast chargers across their car parks.
Conclusion
In a sprawling city like London, choosing the right electric car charging station company isn’t just about proximity. it’s about reliability, pricing, customer service, and innovation. Whether you’re a casual weekend driver, a daily commuter, or a fleet manager, aligning with a trusted EV charging network ensures you’ll always be powered and ready to go.
By investing in the right provider today, drivers not only enjoy peace of mind but also support a cleaner, greener capital tomorrow.
FAQs About EV Charging in London
How many EV charging stations are currently in London?
London currently has more than 15,000 public EV charging points, with ongoing expansion in nearly all boroughs.
Is it cheaper to charge an EV at home or in public?
Charging at home, especially overnight, is typically cheaper. Still, rapid public charging stations remain the quickest and most practical option for drivers who are short on time.
Can I use multiple EV charging networks with one app?
Yes, aggregator apps like Zap-Map and Electric Juice allow users to access multiple networks under one platform.
What’s the average cost of charging an electric car in London?
Public charging can cost between £0.30 to £0.79 per kWh, depending on the provider and charging speed.
Are EV charging stations available 24/7 in London?
Most public stations are accessible 24/7, though access in gated locations (e.g. retail parks) may be limited.
How do I know if a charger is working before I arrive?
Most provider apps and third-party platforms display real-time status, user reports, and maintenance updates.
Which EV charging companies offer loyalty programs or discounts?
Shell Recharge (Shell Go+), BP Pulse (subscription), and Pod Point (retailer partnerships) all offer loyalty or discount schemes.