Germany’s electric charging crisis risks slowing down EV adoption, Fastned warns
Fastned’s Germany chief has called for major improvements to electric vehicle charging at motorway rest stops. Linda Boll, the company’s country director, argues that poorly managed sites risk slowing down the shift to electric mobility. She warns that bad experiences at charging points could damage trust in the entire sector.
Fastned currently operates at unmanaged rest areas under the government’s Deutschlandnetz scheme. Around 34 more locations are set to open by the end of 2026. However, Boll highlights that these sites lack basic amenities like kiosks, reducing convenience for drivers.
She also points out that strict design rules limit brand visibility, with only charging stations standing out. Roof and layout standardisation makes it hard for companies to differentiate themselves. Boll suggests expanding some PWC sites (parking with restrooms) but admits regulations under Deutschlandnetz restrict such changes.
Beyond motorways, Boll sees urban fast charging as increasingly important. Fastned is actively searching for new city locations to meet growing demand. Yet she stresses that success depends on more than just numbers—visibility, lighting, safety, and weather protection all matter.
Another concern is hidden costs in third-party charging cards. Some providers add surcharges of 20 cents or more without clear upfront pricing. Boll argues this lack of transparency harms customer trust.
Boll insists that managed motorway service areas are vital for accelerating electric mobility. She calls for better infrastructure, fair competition, and clearer pricing to ensure a reliable charging network. Without these improvements, she warns, the entire sector could face setbacks.
