Understanding charger pricing

Pricing for charging sessions varies from charger to charger and is determined by the site host. Here’s a detailed guide on how to check the cost and understand the different pricing models.

 

Driver View of Charging Costs 

• Search for the Charger:
  
  Using the Mobile App:

  • Open the app and click on "Search EV chargers".
  • On the new page, tap "Search EV chargers" at the top.
  • Enter the charger display ID, which you can find on the QR code.

  

  Using the Web App:

  • Scan the QR code located on the charger.

• View the Charging Cost:
  
  After searching, the charging cost will be displayed.
  
  Select the charger to see the full price schedule. 

  App & Web App views

  

Types of Pricing 

There are 3 types of pricing below. Some chargers may be free, but still require a ChargeLab account for authentication.

• You are billed for each kWh used.

• You are billed for the time your car is actively drawing power.

  The hourly rate is adjusted based on the power drawn.

  Calculation: kWh used ÷ maximum output of the charger.

  Example: 21 kWh used ÷ 7 kW charger = 3 effective hours. If billed at $2 per hour, the cost is $6.

• You are billed per minute until the car is unplugged.

  Example: 1 hour and 30 minutes at $1 per hour = $1.50.

  Notifications: Receive an SMS when charging is done and fees will continue while idling.

Pricing Structures

Chargers may have different pricing structures, which can vary by location. Always check the pricing schedule in the web or mobile application before starting a charge.

• Consistent pricing regardless of day, time, and length of charge.

  Example: $1 per hour all day, every day.

• Pricing varies by day and/or time of day.

  Example: $1 per hour on weekdays, $3 per hour on weekends.

• Variable pricing within a session.

  Example: $1 per hour for the first two hours, $3 per hour for subsequent hours.

• Charged when the car remains plugged in after charging is complete.

  Grace period: 15 minutes before idle fees begin.

  Notifications:

  • When charging is done.
  • After the 15-minute grace period.

  

  View and update idle fee settings under account settings.

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