Currently, there are over 1,190,000 fully electric vehicles on UK roads. This number is constantly growing, as more drivers are looking to reduce their carbon emissions.
For fleets in particular, it’s essential that drivers have access to reliable and efficient charging solutions, including a secure means of payment. EV charge cards otherwise known as RFID cards, are the answer.
They can be used as thousands of public EV charge points and the transparent invoicing simplifies admin. Even hybrid vehicles can use these cards!
In this guide, we’ll highlight everything you need to know about your EV charge card, including the benefits they offer your business.
What is RFID?
Radio frequency identification (RFID) is a technology used to automatically identify and track objects using radio waves. The system typically contains two basic components: a tag and a reader. Antennas facilitate communication between these components by transmitting and receiving radio signals.
RFID is used in a wide range of applications, including:
- Inventory management: tracking goods in warehouses and retail stores.
- Animal tracking: identifying pets and livestock.
- Access control: allowing entry to secure areas through RIFD-enabled ID cards.
- Supply chain management: monitoring the movement of goods throughout the supply chain.
- Transportation: managing toll and EV charging payments, public transport access and vehicle identification.
What is RFID card?
An RFID card for EV charging is a type of smart card embedded with an RFID chip that enables drivers to access electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. These EV charge cards provide a contactless solution for EV drivers and ensure all payments are secure.
RFID cards are designed for businesses, as they allow you to track all transactions for every fleet vehicle through our online account management system. With these cards, you’ll receive one HMRC-approved invoice for your fleet, making it the most convenient means of payment for EV charging.
Benefits of EV charge cards
EV charge cards offer several benefits, particularly for EV owners and fleet managers. Here are some key advantages:
- Convenience: EV charge cards can be used at thousands of UK public charge points across different networks, making them a practical payment solution for business drivers.
- Centralised invoices: businesses receive a single, consolidated bill for all charging sessions and fuel purchases, making it easier to track expenses and saving you time on admin.
- Cost savings: some EV charge cards offer discounts or lower rates at participating charging stations, potentially reducing the overall cost of charging.
- Usage insights: with an EV charge card, you can access detailed reporting and insights into charging habits. This helps you to optimise your charging schedules to reduce costs.
- Enhanced security: EV charge cards reduce the need for multiple payment methods and can offer secure transactions, protecting against fraud and unauthorised use.
Types of EV charge cards
We offer two different types of EV charge cards: BP Fuel and Charge and Shell Fuel and EV. They can both be used as payment for EVs, petrol and diesel vehicles, providing ultimate flexibility for mixed fleets.
The BP Fuel and Charge card offers excellent coverage of the UK with access to over 12,000 public charge points, including BP Pulse and Osprey. For those with petrol and diesel vehicles, you can also use this card at all BP fuel stations, even on the motorway!
The Shell Fuel and EV card has an expansive EV network with over 23,000 charge points available to you. This includes Shell Recharge branded chargers at Shell forecourts and some Aldi and Waitrose supermarkets.
How to choose the right EV charge card
It’s important to choose the Right charge card which meets the needs of your business. There are various factors you’ll need to consider, including:
- Coverage and network compatibility: you must ensure your EV charge card has coverage within your local area and on regular travel routes.
- Costs: different networks charge different prices, so it’s important to compare the pricing structures, including membership fees, overstay charges, and any additional costs.
- Charging speeds: there are 3 levels of EV charging which offer different speeds. If you need to recharge as quickly as possible, then you should choose a network which includes level 3, ultrafast chargers.
- Additional benefits: some networks offer additional benefits to EV drivers, such as loyalty points and rewards. If you recharge regularly then it’s worth considering these benefits.
Discover our EV guides for more information about EV charging.
How to get an RFID card for EV charging
Getting an RFID card for EV charging is simple. All you need to do is request a callback from a member of our team and we’ll discuss your options. We’ll offer you a recommendation based on the locality of EV chargers and the type of vehicles in your fleet.
As part of the application process, we’ll ask for proof of address (x2) and proof of ID (x1). Your business will also need to pass a credit check before we can approve you for an RFID card.
Once your charge card arrives, it’ll be active and ready to use immediately. You can then use our handy site locator to find participating petrol stations. For EV charging, you can use the Shell or BP site locator.
Cost and payment options
There are various factors that impact the cost of EV charging, including which network is used and the speed of the charger. The typical cost for an ultra-rapid public charger is currently around 79p/kWh.
With an EV charge card, you’ll pay the retail price, plus a transaction fee. Unlike a credit card, there are no interest fees, and you can set spending limits and product restrictions for greater control over your spending.
Tips for maximising EV charge card benefits
EV charge cards come with a range of benefits but, to maximise these, you’ll need to plan strategically. Here are some top tips:
- Understand coverage: familiarise yourself with the EV charging network for your card. This helps you plan journeys and ensures you have access to charging points when you need them.
- Monitor usage and costs: by utilising our detailed usage reports, you can keep track of your charging sessions and costs, so you can manage your expenses more efficiently.
- Plan charging times: if possible, charge your vehicle during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower.
- Use mobile apps: BP and Shell each have their own mobile apps which allow you to locate charging stations, check availability, plus stop charging from afar.
- Optimise charging speeds: understand the different types of chargers (Level 1, Level 2, DC fast chargers) and use the appropriate one based on your needs and the time you have available.
By following these tips, you can ensure you get maximum value and convenience from your EV charge card.
If you want to learn more about best practices for safe and efficient EV charging, our guide has all the answers you’re looking for.
Looking to the future: EV charge card trends
The landscape of EV charge cards is evolving rapidly alongside the growth of electric vehicles. Increasingly, EV charge cards are offering interoperability across multiple charging networks, allowing drivers to access a wider range of charging stations with a single card.
Some providers are moving towards subscription-based models, offering various tiers of service that include benefits like lower charging rates, access to premium charging stations, and other perks.
The accessibility of EV charge cards is also expected to improve. Most now often contactless payments and are beginning the integration with digital wallets to make the charging process faster and more efficient.
Matthew Dodds, Head of Strategic Sales and Partnerships at Right Fuel Card, predicts the following:
“The collaboration of EV networks will negate the need for multiple apps and cards. This makes EV charging much more practical and addresses the concerns that some drivers may have about switching to electric. Putting the needs of drivers first is key for the development of EV charge cards.”
An EV charge card is instrumental for businesses switching to electric, as it provides flexibility for drivers and allows them to track fuel expenditure. As the industry continues to evolve with innovations like interoperability, dynamic pricing, and enhanced user experiences, the EV charging experience will improve. Stay informed about the latest updates, so you can maximise the benefits of your EV charge card.
Contact our team today to discuss your EV charge card options or complete our online application form. If you’re not ready to make the switch to electric, then compare our range of fuel cards which offer flexibility for petrol and diesel vehicles.
