Charging cards for electric cars compared: the best providers, models, and billing tips

Electric mobility is no longer a future trend - many companies in Germany already operate electric vehicles in their fleets or allow employees to charge their private EVs. But when it comes to accessing public charging stations, things can quickly get complicated. As of December 2024, the Federal Network Agency lists more than 120,600 standard charging points and 33,400 fast chargers, but usage and billing vary widely.

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Sometimes users need a charging card, sometimes the process runs through an app. Some providers charge a monthly base fee, while others bill only by consumption. Prices may also increase for extended parking times, and there are significant differences between AC, DC, and fast-charging stations.

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For employers, the question is: Which solution is efficient, transparent, and tax compliant - without adding extra work for HR or finance teams?

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This guide helps you navigate the landscape: which providers are available, how their pricing models differ, and what companies need to know about billing when offering e-mobility as a benefit or fleet solution.

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Contents

   1. How charging cards for electric cars work

   2. Pricing models: How providers differ

   3. Provider comparison: Costs, features, and special characteristics

   4. Billing: What companies should consider

   5. FAQ: Frequently asked questions about charging cards

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1. How Charging Cards for EVs Work

Charging cards give employees access to public charging stations and handle both authentication and billing for each session.

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Authentication via RFID technology

Most cards use RFID (Radio Frequency Identification). The card contains a chip that communicates wirelessly with the reader at the charging point. The station checks the card’s authorization and automatically starts the charging process.

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Step-by-step: charging with a card

1. Connect your vehicle to the charging point using a cable.
2. Hold the card against the reader on the station.
3. Charging starts automatically once authentication succeeds.
4. To stop charging, hold the card against the reader again.
5. Disconnect the cable from the car and station.

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Billing and management

Charging sessions are usually billed monthly. Companies receive a detailed overview of kWh consumption and costs. Many providers also offer digital dashboards that allow HR or fleet teams to manage cards and monitor costs centrally.

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Alternative authentication methods

• Charging apps: Many providers let users start and pay for sessions via app.
• Plug & Charge: The newest technology - charging begins automatically once the vehicle is plugged in, no separate card or app needed.

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2. Pricing Models: How Providers Differ

Most providers follow one of these models:

• Base fee + lower kWh price: Ideal for frequent drivers, since the base fee is offset by cheaper charging rates (e.g., EnBW, E.ON Drive).
• No base fee + higher kWh price: Suited for occasional users (e.g., Maingau, EWE Go).
• Package or flat-rate models: A fixed price includes a certain energy quota per month (e.g., E.ON Drive M/L).
• Hybrid models: Combine charging, fueling, and other mobility services (e.g., NAVIT).

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The price per kWh depends on the plan, location, operator, and charging power (AC vs. DC). Rates for roaming networks can vary significantly from domestic ones.

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3. Provider Comparison: Key Features and Costs

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NAVIT

• No base fee; hybrid card (charging, fueling, parking)
• Integrated into mobility budgets (e.g., 50 € benefit allowance)
• Fully digital solution for companies
• Also manages other mobility options such as bike leasing or car subscriptions

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EnBW mobility+

• Three plans: S (0 €), M (5.99 €), L (17.99 €)
• 0.39 €–0.59 € per kWh
• Large network across Germany and the EU

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Shell Recharge

• Free or e-Deal plan (4.99 €/month)
• e-Deal offers lower prices: 0.44–0.48 €/kWh
• Over 700,000 charging points across Europe

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Maingau Energie

• No base fee, no contract
• 0.49–0.79 €/kWh
• Discounts for Maingau electricity customers

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EWE Go

• No base fee
• 0.49–0.59 €/kWh
• Strong coverage in Northwest Germany

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ADAC e-Charge

• Members only
• 0.51–0.57 €/kWh
• Physical card required

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E.ON Drive

• Plans with free quotas (e.g., M: 75 kWh, L: 175 kWh)
• Pricing depends on package and roaming network

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Elli (Volkswagen)

• Free, City, and Highway plans (0–14.99 €)
• 0.60–0.89 €/kWh
• Designed primarily for VW vehicles

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4. Billing: What Companies Should Know

For private users, billing usually works through monthly direct debit or credit card. For companies, a few additional factors matter:

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• Transparent consumption tracking: Platforms like NAVIT integrate with payroll and automate billing for HR.
• Roaming fees: Costs can rise sharply depending on the operator or country.
• Tax compliance: If the card counts as a benefit or allowance, companies must follow tax exemptions and reporting rules.
• Integrated solutions: NAVIT lets employers manage all mobility benefits - charging cards, Germany Ticket, bike leasing, and car subscriptions - in one platform with seamless accounting integration.

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5. FAQ: Common Questions About Charging Cards

Charging card or app - which is better?
Apps are flexible but can fail when reception is poor. A physical card works offline and is more reliable.

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How does charging with a card work?
Hold the card near the reader at the charging point. The session starts automatically once authorized.

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Which charging card do I need?
It depends on driving habits. Employees with company cars or frequent travel should choose a plan with a base fee; occasional drivers can use free models. Companies benefit most from hybrid solutions like NAVIT.

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How much does a charging card cost?
Many are free of charge. Prices per kWh typically range from 0.39 € to 0.89 €, depending on the provider and charging type.

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What’s the cheapest way to charge?
Choose plans with lower kWh prices and a base fee, or providers offering loyalty discounts. Charging at night or during off-peak times can also reduce costs.

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How can employers issue charging cards to employees?
Usually directly via the provider’s website. NAVIT offers a centralized platform where HR can manage cards and automatically link them to payroll.

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Conclusion

For anyone driving electric - whether privately or on business - it pays to compare tariffs carefully. For companies, a digital platform like NAVIT simplifies e-mobility management, ensures tax compliance, and provides employees with a convenient, flexible way to charge anywhere.

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