IONITY offers one of Europe’s largest high-power electric car charging networks, stretching across 24 countries and catering to drivers seeking fast, reliable charging on major highways. This guide covers everything UK drivers need to know about using the IONITY network, from accessing chargers to payment options and maximising savings.
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What is the IONITY Charging Network?
IONITY is a high-power EV charging network co-founded by major car brands, including BMW, Ford, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen, to provide ultra-fast charging stations along key travel routes. IONITY chargers can deliver up to 350kW, reducing EV charging times significantly and making long-distance electric driving feasible and convenient.
Accessing the IONITY Network: Mobility Service Providers and Direct Options
1. Using Mobility Service Providers (MSPs) for IONITY Charging
Many drivers can access IONITY chargers through partnerships with Mobility Service Providers (MSPs), which often offer integrated access to various charging networks across Europe. Using an MSP, you’ll generally have flexible payment options, including subscriptions and pay-per-use rates.
Car Brand Charging Services
Several car brands, such as Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, have integrated IONITY into their charging services, offering users additional benefits like discounts and contactless payment through apps or RFID cards. Some vehicles even support Plug & Charge, this lets you simply plug in and start charging without additional authorisation steps.
2. Direct Access with IONITY Direct
If you prefer charging without a subscription, IONITY Direct allows you to pay-as-you-go without requiring an MSP contract. This option is ideal for occasional long-distance travel. Payment is made via the IONITY app or by scanning a QR code at the charging station. As of the latest rates, IONITY Direct costs £0.69 per kWh in the UK.
IONITY Passport: Savings for Frequent Travellers
For drivers regularly travelling long distances, IONITY offers two subscription plans under the IONITY Passport program, each designed to lower per-kWh costs.
IONITY Passport Plans
- Passport Motion: For drivers covering shorter journeys but needing frequent charges, this plan costs £5.49 per month with a reduced rate of £0.53 per kWh.
- Passport Power: For long-distance drivers, this plan offers a monthly rate of £10.50 and a reduced charge of £0.43 per kWh.
Both plans include a discount on the first month and allow for flexible cancellation. Payments are managed via the IONITY app.
Charging Methods: App, QR Code, and RFID Cards
Charging with the IONITY App
- Download and open the IONITY app, select your charger on the map, and connect.
- Confirm payment details and authorise charging.
- Plug the charger into your EV and monitor the session via the app.
- Stop the charge by swiping in the app and disconnecting your vehicle.
Using the QR Code
Each IONITY station has a QR code near the charger display. Simply scan it to open the payment page, follow the prompts for payment authorisation, and start your charge.
RFID Cards via MSPs
If you have an RFID card from an MSP, you can access IONITY chargers by presenting the card to the station’s reader. Popular options include cards from Octopus Electric Juice and Shell Recharge, each offering distinct rates and benefits.
Where to Find IONITY Chargers in the UK
IONITY has over a dozen high-power charging stations across the UK, conveniently located at service stations along major motorways. These locations are designed to support long-haul journeys, with additional plans to expand and enhance the network. Use the new IONITY route planner to find their chargers.
IONITY Charging Speeds: Ultra-Fast Power
IONITY chargers provide up to 350kW, allowing compatible EVs to reach 80% charge in about 15 minutes. All IONITY stations use the Combined Charging System (CCS) connector, which maximises charging speed based on the vehicle’s capability. This makes it ideal for quick stops on long journeys, particularly for EVs with fast-charging capacity.
How Much Does IONITY Cost?
The cost of charging with IONITY varies based on your chosen access method:
- IONITY Direct: £0.69 per kWh for pay-as-you-go users.
- IONITY Passport Motion: £0.53 per kWh with a £5.49 monthly fee.
- IONITY Passport Power: £0.43 per kWh with a £10.50 monthly fee.
These prices include VAT and are subject to change, so check the IONITY app for current rates.
100% Renewable Energy
IONITY is committed to sustainability, powering all its stations with 100% renewable energy.
The Final Word on the IONITY Charging Network
IONITY is ideal for drivers who frequently travel on motorways or need high-speed charging on longer routes. With flexible access options through direct payment, subscriptions, and car brand integrations, IONITY provides a range of solutions to meet the needs of different EV drivers.
Download the IONITY app today to find your nearest charger and start benefiting from ultra-fast, renewable energy charging across the UK and Europe.
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John is the Editor and Spokesperson for Electric Car Guide.
With over 20 years of writing experience, he has written for titles such as City AM, FE News and NerdWallet.com, covering various automotive and personal finance topics.
John’s market commentary has been covered by the likes of The Express, The Independent, Yahoo Finance and The Evening Standard.
