How many public charging points are there in France?
France is now one of Europe's leaders in electric vehicle charging, with more than 160,000 public charging points deployed across the country. This rapidly expanding infrastructure plays a crucial role in supporting the energy transition and meeting the growing demand from motorists.
How are recharging stations distributed across France?
The distribution of charging points in France reveals major disparities between regions, reflecting both population density and specific travel needs. Here are the main points to bear in mind:
- Concentration in major urban areas Île-de-France leads the way with more than 5,000 charging stations, followed by Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes (almost 4,900 stations). These regions benefit from high population density and increased demand for electric vehicles.
- Territorial inequalities Some areas, such as Corsica (301 stations) and Bourgogne-Franche-Comté (1,608 stations), are far less equipped. Rural areas and less populated regions are still lagging behind, despite a gradual increase in the number of charging points.
- Road network : The major motorway routes are well equipped with fast and ultra-fast charging points, enabling vehicles to be recharged in just a few minutes. However, not all motorways are yet equipped, which poses a challenge for long-distance journeys.
- Terminal power More than half of all charging points offer a power rating of between 7.4 and 22 kW (three-phase AC), suitable for domestic or extended recharging. Fast (50 to 150 kW) and ultra-fast (>150 kW) charging points account for around 15 % of the total, but their availability remains a major challenge.
In short, while France has made significant progress in deploying recharging infrastructure, it still needs to reduce the differences between regions if it is to respond effectively to the growing demand linked to the electrification of the car fleet.
Why is the number of new recharging stations on the increase?
The rapid increase in the number of charging stations in France is due to a number of key factors, reflecting both growing demand and strategic initiatives:
- Electric vehicle sales soar With more than 2 million electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles on the road by the end of 2024, demand for suitable infrastructure has risen sharply. This massive take-up is prompting market players to speed up the deployment of stations to meet the needs of motorists.
- Government and regulatory support The French government has introduced a number of incentives, such as covering up to 75 % of the cost of connection to the network, and a tariff shield for recharging. These measures facilitate the installation of charging points in urban and rural areas, while making their operation financially viable.
- Ambitious targets for 2030 : France is aiming for 400,000 public charging points by 2030. This target requires a sustained pace of installation, with the network increasing six-fold since 2015. Programmes like Advenir are playing a central role in providing financial and logistical support for the roll-out.
- Partnerships with major retailers and private operators Lidl: Players such as Lidl and Carrefour account for a significant proportion of new installations (43 % in 2024). These partnerships will increase the density of the network in shopping areas where demand is strong.
- Energy transition and changing behaviour Electric mobility is now seen as an essential solution for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.carbon footprint. Infrastructure is following this trend, with a significant increase in fast and ultra-fast charging points to meet the needs of long-distance journeys.
These factors combined explain why the rollout of charging stations continues to progress at a steady pace, despite the challenges associated with geographical distribution and funding.
What are the differences between slow, fast and ultra-fast charging for electric vehicles?
There are three main categories of electric vehicle charging: slow, fast and ultra-fast. Each meets specific needs in terms of time, power and use. Here's an overview of the key distinctions:
- Slow charging (alternating current - AC) :
- Power: generally between 2.3 kW (domestic socket) and 22 kW (Type 2 socket or wallbox).
- Recharge time: from 8 to over 20 hours depending on the battery capacity battery and the power delivered.
- Use: ideal for recharging at home or in car parks where the vehicle is stationary for long periods.
- Advantage: economical and suitable for short daily journeys.
- Rapid recharging (DC) :
- Power: between 50 kW and 150 kW.
- Recharge time: approximately 1 to 2 hours to recover a autonomy significant.
- Use: perfect for intermediate stops on long journeys, particularly on motorways or at service stations.
- Advantage: a compromise between speed and cost.
- Ultra-fast charging (DC) :
- Power: up to 350 kW with sockets CCS Combo.
- Recharging time: approximately 15 to 30 minutes to reach 80 % of battery capacity.
- Use: designed for drivers in a hurry, often used on motorway service areas or in strategic zones.
- Advantage: minimises downtime while maximising autonomy.
These three types of recharging reflect the development of infrastructures in France, which now has more than 160,000 points accessible to the public, consolidating its position as one of Europe's leaders. Their diversity means that users can adapt their choice according to their energy needs and daily routine.
Why is electric car charging essential to the energy transition?
The energy transition is based on a drastic reduction in CO₂ emissions, and the mass adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is a central pillar of this. However, this revolution cannot become a reality without a robust and accessible network of charging stations.
How are charging stations contributing to sustainable mobility in France?
Charging stations play a central role in the transition to sustainable mobility in France. They not only meet the growing needs of electric vehicle users, but also play an active role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and creating a greener energy ecosystem. Here are the main contributions of charging infrastructures to sustainable mobility:
- Reducing the carbon footprint of transport Electric vehicles, powered by renewable energy sources (solar, wind), emit considerably less CO2 than combustion-powered vehicles. This helps to reduce the overall environmental impact of the transport sector.
- Accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles A dense, accessible network of charging points reduces the anxiety associated with battery life, encouraging more French people to switch to electric vehicles.
- Integration into the sustainable energy mix Some charging points use innovative technologies, such as energy storage using second-life batteries or intelligent recharging, to optimise electricity consumption and reduce peak demand on the grid.
- Local economic development and territorial equity By encouraging the installation of charging stations in rural and urban areas, the rollout is helping to make mobility accessible to all, while stimulating the local economy through public and private investment.
In short, these infrastructures are not just a practical tool for motorists; they embody a strategic vision for a cleaner, more sustainable future. Their continued development is essential if we are to meet national and European climate targets while guaranteeing fluid, environmentally-friendly mobility.
Where can I find accessible recharging stations for long-distance journeys?
For long-distance journeys, France has a well-developed network of recharging stations, making it easier to use electric vehicles and supporting the energy transition. Here's how and where to find them:
- Motorways and trunk roads : France's main motorways, such as the A7, A6 and A9, are equipped with high-power charging stations (150 to 400 kW) at service areas and certain rest areas. These stations provide fast, efficient recharging, ideal for long journeys.
- Mobile applications and interactive maps Tools such as Bison Futé's interactive map or dedicated applications can be used to locate available stations in real time. These solutions are particularly useful for planning a journey without interruption.
- Private networks Operators such asIONITYTesla Superchargers and TotalEnergies offer charging points along strategic routes. These charging points are compatible with most recent electric vehicles, guaranteeing fast, reliable recharging.
- Kiosks powered by green energy : Some stations, such as those in the TotalEnergies network, use electricity exclusively from renewable sources (solar, wind). This allows drivers to combine electric mobility with maximum reduction in CO₂ emissions.
The continued deployment of this infrastructure is essential to meet growing demand and encourage motorists to switch to electric vehicles, thereby contributing to the energy transition.
Fast charging: why is it crucial to the adoption of electric cars?
Fast charging plays an essential role in the mass adoption of electric vehicles, meeting key user needs and promoting the energy transition. Here's why it's essential:
- Time-saving and practical Fast charging stations can recharge up to 80 % of the battery in just 30 minutes, or even less with ultra-fast charging stations. This considerably reduces the constraints associated with long journeys, making electric cars just as practical as combustion-powered vehicles for commuting and travelling.
- Making long journeys easier Fast charging is particularly useful on motorways and in strategic areas where drivers need to regain range quickly. It eliminates range anxiety, a major obstacle to the purchase of an electric vehicle.
- Accelerating the energy transition By integrating charging points powered by renewable energies, fast charging helps to reduce the carbon footprint of journeys. This reinforces the role of electric vehicles in the fight against global warming and dependence on fossil fuels.
- Compatibility with advanced technologies Fast and ultra-fast charging stations are designed to work with a wide range of electric vehicles, including those equipped with the latest technology. They therefore encourage wider adoption by meeting the diverse needs of consumers.
In short, fast charging is a strategic lever for democratising the use of electric cars, while supporting the environmental and economic objectives of the energy transition.
What is the availability rate for charging stations in France in 2025?
The exponential growth in the number of electric vehicles in France is accompanied by a crucial issue: the effective availability of charging points. Although France is one of Europe's top 3 countries, with more than 160,000 publicly accessible charging points, sheer numbers are not enough. The year 2025 will be a turning point for assessing whether this infrastructure really meets the needs of electromobilists.
How do you assess the quality of charging points for electric cars?
To ensure an optimal charging experience, it's essential to assess the quality of charging points according to a number of criteria. Here are the main points to consider:
- Availability rate In France in 2025, the availability rate of public charging stations is a key indicator. A reliable network ensures that chargepoints are operational at all times, minimising interruptions and maximising access for users.
- Charging power Power: The power, expressed in kilowatts (kW), determines the charging speed. Charging points ranging from 3.7 kW to 22 kW are ideal for everyday use, while those above 50 kW are ideal for fast charging on motorways.
- Reliability and certifications Standards such as IEC 61851 and NF C 15-100 guarantee the safety and performance of bollards. A certified bollard ensures compatibility with electric vehicles and installation that complies with standards.
- Advanced functionalities Options such as energy management, remote control via a mobile application, and badge-based security all enhance the efficiency and accessibility of the terminals.
- Durability and resistance IK10 and weather protection are essential to guarantee the longevity of infrastructures, especially in a wide range of climatic conditions.
By combining these criteria, users can choose charging stations that are tailored to their needs, while ensuring fast, safe and reliable recharging.
Are charging stations reliable and easy for drivers to access?
By 2025, the reliability and accessibility of charging stations in France have improved significantly, but some challenges remain. Here are the main points to bear in mind:
- Increased reliability The average availability rate for charging stations reached 93 % in January 2025, according to the Avere barometer. This figure reflects an improvement on previous years, although some fluctuations remain, particularly during peak periods.
- Immediate accessibility In addition to the technical availability rate, the rate of immediate access to stations, including management of occupied terminals, is estimated at 95 %. This guarantees drivers a relatively seamless experience in most cases.
- High-performance networks Tesla Superchargers, Fastned and Electra dominate the rankings in terms of reliability and user experience. These networks not only offer robust infrastructures, but also ease of use that appeals to drivers.
- Persistent challenges Despite this progress, some networks still suffer from recurring breakdowns or disparities in infrastructure quality. These problems can be frustrating for users, particularly at peak times or in areas with less coverage.
In summary, France today has a dense and generally reliable network, but the user experience varies from operator to operator and region to region. Ongoing efforts to improve the availability and management of charging stations are essential if we are to keep pace with the rapid growth in the country's electricity supply.
What will be the best charging point networks in 2025?
By 2025, the landscape of charging points for electric vehicles in France will be changing rapidly, driven by growing demand and major innovations. With more than 160,000 points accessible to the public, France is one of Europe's leaders. But which networks really stand out in this race for excellence?
Why are Tesla Supercharger, Fastned and Izivia the best for fast charging?
The Tesla Supercharger, Fastned and Izivia networks stand out in the fast-charging world thanks to their combination of reliability, performance and accessibility. Here's why these players dominate the market:
- Tesla Supercharger an exemplary infrastructure
Tesla is renowned for the impeccable quality of its charging stations. Superchargers offer constant maximum power, guaranteeing a smooth and fast experience. In 2025, Tesla will be at the top of the rankings in terms of infrastructure quality and user experience, thanks to its dense, well-maintained network. What's more, its competitive rates for Tesla owners make it even more attractive.
- Fastned: ultra-fast and reliable
Fastned stands out for its ultra-fast charging stations, ideal for long-distance journeys. This network is particularly popular on motorways, where it was ranked number one in 2025. Its exemplary reliability and consistent service make it the preferred choice for drivers looking to minimise their recharging time.
- Izivia: extended accessibility
Izivia offers a vast and accessible network throughout France and Europe, with more than 400,000 charge points available via its Pass. The network is acclaimed for its competitive rates in the fast-charging category, ranking among the best in terms of value for money. Its intuitive mobile application also makes it easy to locate compatible charging points.
These three networks embody excellence in fast charging, meeting the varied needs of electric drivers while supporting the transition to sustainable mobility.
Where can I find the best recharging stations on French motorways?
For long-distance journeys in France, motorways are now well equipped with high-performance charging points, thanks to increasingly reliable and accessible networks. Here's an overview of the best networks and their features to optimise your recharging stops:
- Tesla Superchargers The undisputed leader in terms of reliability and user experience, this network offers ultra-fast charging stations, ideal for long journeys. The stations are strategically located on major routes, guaranteeing fast, unhindered recharging.
- Fastned Fastned: Renowned for its modern infrastructure and high charging power, Fastned stands out for its growing coverage of French motorways. Its stations offer fast, constant recharging, ideal for drivers in a hurry.
- Electra : Electra is rapidly expanding its range of 300 kW charging stations, notably on the VINCI Autoroutes network. These installations include ecological solutions such as photovoltaic panels and drainage paving to limit their environmental impact.
- Allego Allego is a key player in motorway recharging, with a good balance between quality of service and affordability.
The stations on these networks are often accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and are compatible with various means of payment (top-up passes or bank cards), making them easy to use. Before you leave, consider using applications such as Chargemap to locate available stations and plan your stops according to your needs.
What new players are revolutionising the electric car charging market?
The electric vehicle recharging market is undergoing a rapid transformation in 2025, driven by the arrival of innovative new players. These companies are redefining industry standards with advanced technologies and bold business models. Here are the main names to watch:
- Mobilize Fast Charge Mobilize: A Renault subsidiary, Mobilize is positioning itself as a key player with its ultra-fast network. Its stations, capable of delivering up to 320 kW, can recover 400 km of range in just 15 minutes. With a target of 650 stations in Europe by 2028, Mobilize has established itself as an open and competitive alternative to Tesla Superchargers.
- Electra Electra: This fast-growing French network focuses on quality and speed. With ultra-modern charging stations and a premium service, Electra is aimed at demanding drivers while offering competitive rates (€0.39 to €0.49/kWh). Its objective is clear: to become a fixture on major motorways.
- Fastned : Fastned, which originated in the Netherlands, is continuing to grow in France with its reliable, ultra-fast stations. Ranked among the best motorway networks, it offers a fluid and consistent user experience, strengthening its presence on long-distance routes.
- Powerdot Powerdot: Present since 2020, Powerdot is democratising fast charging by focusing on a local strategy. This new player is focusing on installing charging points in strategic locations such as shopping car parks and town centres.
These new entrants are shaking up the traditional landscape dominated by Tesla, Ionity and TotalEnergies. Their strategy is based on technological innovation, extended geographical coverage and improved affordability. As competition intensifies, these players could well redefine the future of electric mobility in France.
What does the future hold for recharging stations in France?
As France continues to strengthen its network of charging stations, reaching over 160,000 points accessible to the public, the future of charging stations looks promising and full of challenges. The coming years will be marked by technological innovations, greater interoperability and the growing integration of renewable energies.
How will the Charge France alliance develop fast-charging stations?
Charge France, an initiative bringing together 13 major operators such as Allego, IONITY and Fastned, aims to transform the fast-charging landscape in France. This strategic alliance is based on massive investment and a shared vision to meet the growing needs of electromobilists. Here are the main levers of action:
- Massive investment After injecting more than €1 billion, Charge France plans to invest a further €3 billion between now and 2028. This financial effort will quadruple the network of ultra-fast charging stations, guaranteeing optimum national coverage.
- Structuring the network With more than 2,000 existing stations, the aim is to densify and harmonise the infrastructure to ensure fast, reliable recharging throughout the country. This includes the introduction of charging points with a power rating of over 100 kW, ideal for long journeys.
- Increased accessibility Plug & Charge: Charge France is committed to simplifying access to charging stations through technological solutions such as the Plug & Charge system, which enables automatic recharging as soon as the vehicle is plugged in. These innovations aim to reduce technological barriers and improve the user experience.
This alliance marks a decisive turning point for electric mobility in France, forming part of a European dynamic and reinforcing the energy transition.
Will charging stations become fully interoperable in the years to come?
The interoperability of charging stations is a key issue for the future of electric mobility in France and Europe. It aims to guarantee a seamless user experience, enabling electric vehicle drivers to access any charging point, regardless of their operator or service provider. The outlook for the coming years is as follows:
- European standards and regulations The AFIR regulation imposes common technical standards for recharging infrastructures, promoting their interoperability. These standards include requirements for compatibility between charging points and different payment systems, as well as a balanced split between normal, fast and ultra-fast charging.
- National initiatives : In France, the Advenir programme requires all subsidised kiosks to be connected to interoperability platforms such as Gireve or Hubject. These platforms provide non-discriminatory access to the terminals, simplifying the user experience.
- Technological challenges The standardisation of communication protocols between vehicles, charging points and the electricity grid remains a major challenge. Projects such as "aVEnir" are exploring ways of integrating these technologies while improving smart charging.
- Impact on users Interoperability promises greater infrastructure reliability and greater flexibility in payment methods. From 2024, all kiosks will have to accept several options, such as bankcards, contactless payment or payment via QR code.
In conclusion, although significant progress is being made, full interoperability will require close collaboration between public and private players, as well as Europe-wide harmonisation of technical standards. This could radically transform the experience of electric motorists in the years to come.
Will charging points be powered by renewable energy in the future?
The future of electric charging points in France is closely linked to the integration of renewable energies, a key development in meeting environmental and energy challenges. Here are the main prospects and innovations in this area:
- Integrating solar panels and wind turbines : Many recharging points are beginning to be equipped with photovoltaic panels, enabling local production of green electricity. These installations, often coupled with storage batteries, guarantee energy autonomy even in isolated or rural areas. Solar shading systems in car parks are also a promising solution, producing energy while optimising the use of space.
- Intelligent management technologies : Advanced energy management systems, such as the vehicle-to-grid (V2G), make it possible to use the batteries in electric vehicles to power homes or stabilise the electricity grid when consumption peaks. These innovations maximise the efficiency of renewable sources and reduce dependence on traditional electricity suppliers.
- Development of a hybrid network : To overcome the limitations of renewable energies (low production when it's cloudy or there's no wind), hybrid solutions combining solar and wind power are on the rise. These systems provide a continuous power supply to the terminals, even during periods of low energy production.
- Ambitious targets for 2030 France is planning a major increase in its installed renewable energy capacity, with 115 GW of photovoltaic capacity and 66 GW of onshore and offshore wind power by 2035. These advances should enable a massive coupling between recharging infrastructures and renewable generation, meeting the growing needs associated with electric mobility.
Summary table of charging points in France in 2025
| Theme | Key information |
|---|---|
| Charging stations in France | More than 160,000 public charging points, putting France in the top 3 in Europe |
| Geographical breakdown | Concentration in major urban regions (Île-de-France, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes). Territorial disparities, with some areas less well equipped (Corsica, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté). Good coverage of main roads, but incomplete coverage of all motorways. |
| More charging stations | This sharp increase is due to the explosion in sales of electric vehicles, government support, ambitious targets for 2030, partnerships with retailers and the energy transition. |
| Refill types |
|
| Role in the energy transition | Reducing CO2 emissions, speeding up the adoption of electric vehicles, becoming part of a sustainable energy mix, local economic development. |
| Location of long-distance stations | Motorways and trunk roads, mobile applications and interactive maps, private networks (IONITY, Tesla), green energy terminals. |
| The importance of fast recharging | Saving time, making long journeys easier, speeding up the energy transition, compatibility with advanced technologies. |
| Terminal quality | Availability rate, load power, reliability and certifications (IEC 61851, NF C 15-100), advanced features, durability and resistance (IK10). |
| Reliability and accessibility | Increased reliability (average availability rate of 93 % in January 2025). Significant improvements, but persistent challenges. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, France is a European leader in the field of charging points for electric vehicles, with more than 160,000 points accessible to the public. This rapidly expanding infrastructure is essential to support the energy transition and meet the growing demand from motorists. Despite regional disparities, the rapid deployment of new stations, supported by government initiatives and private partnerships, is helping to reduce range anxiety and accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles. The diversity of charging options, from slow to ultra-fast, means that users can tailor their choice to their specific needs, while promoting sustainable, environmentally-friendly mobility.
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