Wolfsburg – VW is launching a significant quality offensive regarding charging and energy. Volkswagen, Cupra/Seat, and ŠKODA are now delivering simple tariffs for public charging, letting customers charge at fixed kilowatt-hour prices throughout the whole charging network. With this step, the company makes optimal cost transparency. At the same time, VW is expanding its European charging network: EV motorists can now use more than 310,000 charging points throughout Europe, including approximately 10,000 fast chargers at over 3,000 locations. Volkswagen is also preparing a complete partner program to improve the comfort at charging parks.
In the future, customers will choose between three basic tariffs, each with set prices per kilowatt-hour charged. The new tariffs apply to customers of We Charge (Volkswagen), Powerpass (ŠKODA), Easy Charging (SEAT/CUPRA) and Elli and offer top conditions for Ionity fast chargers, among other benefits. Volkswagen is pursuing the wishes of its customers who favor transparent fixed prices. Depending on the country, prices can differ but always follow the same logic. Elli, our in-house brand, which is accountable for all activities in the Group around the topic of charging & energy, is the offer’s backbone.
More convenience through Plug&Charge and the “Selected Partner” program
This effort also includes a “Selected Partner” program jointly with charging park operators. In the future, convenient charging stations will be spotlighted in the EV navigation systems, and drivers will be given the option to drive there. The quality criteria will include reliability, weather protection, and if there is a catering option. This means that customers will be able to target charging stations with a canopy and coffee offering. The program is scheduled to start later this year.
Another component of the quality offensive is the market launch of Plug&Charge. The function will be activated from the middle of the year via a software update in all e-cars of the volume brands based on the MEB architecture. The vehicle identifies itself at the corresponding charging stations using the ISO 15188 standard and automatically starts the charging process. Plug&Charge is supported by IONITY, Aral/bp, E.ON and Iberdrola, among others. Other partners are already preparing to join the offer.
NEW AUTO: Greatest commitment of the automotive industry
With NEW AUTO, the Volkswagen Group has made charging and energy its core business. Like no other car manufacturer, the company is investing in the development of an open fast-charging network worldwide. By 2025, around 45,000 High Power Charging (HPC) points are planned in Europe, China, and the USA together with partners. The product range also includes the entire range of charging solutions for private customers and companies – from the company’s own wallbox and flexible, fast-charging station to charging services and innovative, smart green electricity tariffs. Next, VW will anchor the electric car as a mobile power bank in the energy system, creating additional value for EV customers.
