EV charging stations are becoming easier to find across South Africa. This growing network is helping reduce the range anxiety that many electric vehicle owners feel.
The fear of running out of power before reaching a charger is gone, and as a result, more people are feeling confident about switching to electric vehicles.
What many drivers don’t realise, though, is that you don’t always need a public charger. You can charge your EV at home, and that’s usually the most convenient and affordable option. Simply plug it in overnight and wake up to a full battery.
In fact, drivers who mainly charge at home spend about one-third of what they would on petrol or diesel for a similar-sized car. The only trade-off is speed: home charging can take 8 to 10 hours to reach roughly 80%.
Still, most owners prefer this slow, steady charging overnight. It fits their routine and costs less than using public fast chargers. For most people who drive 30–50 km a day, a single weekly charge is enough.
But if you’re planning a long road trip, that’s when you’ll need a fast charger, and those tend to be pricier.
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Types of chargers used in charging stations in SA
Not all charging stations are the same. The type of charger you use affects how long your car takes to charge and where you’ll typically find it.
Broadly, there are two kinds of chargers: AC (Alternating Current) and DC (Direct Current). Understanding the difference helps you save time, and avoid getting stranded.
AC Chargers
AC chargers are the most common type in South Africa. You’ll find them in shopping malls, workplaces, hotels, and homes.
They deliver a steady flow of electricity at a moderate rate, which makes them ideal for overnight charging or longer parking periods (like when you’re at work).
For most EV drivers, AC charging easily covers day-to-day driving needs. It’s reliable, affordable, and simple to use.
DC Fast Chargers
DC fast chargers, sometimes called CCS (Combined Charging System), deliver high-voltage current directly to your car’s battery. That’s what allows you to get a big boost of range in just a few minutes instead of hours.
These are the chargers you’ll use on road trips or when you need to top up quickly during the day. They’re faster but also more expensive to use than AC chargers.
Connector compatibility & adapters
When it comes to EV charging, the plug type matters just as much as the charger itself. Most modern electric vehicles in South Africa use the Type 2 connector for AC charging.
For fast DC charging, most stations use CCS 2 (Combined Charging System). These chargers are built on the same Type 2 base but support higher power for quicker top-ups.
Some older imported models still use CHAdeMO connectors, though these are becoming rare.
Because of these differences, it’s important to know what your car supports before setting out on a trip. Always check your vehicle’s charging inlet and carry any adapter your car might need.
Your EV’s mobile app or owner’s manual will usually list compatible connector types and nearby charging options. A quick check before you drive can save you a lot of time (and frustration) later.
How to find EV charging stations in SA (best apps & maps)
Whether you own an EV or you’re just renting one for a trip, knowing where to find charging stations makes travel smoother and less stressful. Luckily, several apps and maps can help you locate chargers quickly, wherever you are in South Africa.
Google Maps & Apple Maps (built-in nav)
Both Google Maps and Apple Maps now list EV charging stations directly within their apps. You can view details like connector type, charging speed, availability, recent user ratings & reports, and the number of plugs at each site.
Many newer EVs also integrate Google’s charging data right into the car’s navigation system. That means your car can monitor your battery level and automatically guide you to the nearest charger when you’re running low.
PlugShare, Electromaps, and local aggregators
Third-party apps like PlugShare, Electromaps, Drive South Africa’s EV Map, and AutoTrader’s Live Map collect data from multiple networks and EV owners.
PlugShare is especially popular. It lets you filter by plug type, charger speed, or amenities, and read real-time user reviews, including notes about whether a charger is working.
Pro tip: Before relying on a charger in a remote area, always check the most recent user comments and “last seen online” timestamps. This quick step can save you from arriving at an offline station.
Gridcars maps
GridCars operates South Africa’s largest public charging network. Its interactive map shows nearby chargers including opening hours, plug availability, amenities available, estimated prices, and even includes a cost calculator.
If you want a reliable source of up-to-date local information, GridCars’ map is one of the best options available.
OEM apps
Many car brands, including BMW, MINI, Audi, and Jaguar, have their own dedicated apps for locating chargers. These sometimes include exclusive or free charging access at partner locations.
OEM apps are especially useful if you want guaranteed compatibility and integrated billing for your vehicle.
Ev charging providers in South Africa
Companies rolling out charger networks in South Africa
- GridCars: GridCars is one of South Africa’s main EV infrastructure providers. With over 350 public chargers nationwide, it’s the network you’ll most likely use, whether you own or rent an EV.
- Rubicon: Rubicon installs chargers at service stations, shopping malls, hotels, and homes. Many of its chargers support DC fast charging, and the company offers a mobile app for locating chargers, managing sessions, and paying directly through your phone.
- CHARGE (Formerly zero carbon charge): CHARGE is developing a national off-grid charging network powered entirely by solar energy. The goal is to create a self-sustaining infrastructure that doesn’t rely on the state-run electricity grid, offering ultra-fast, eco-friendly charging even in remote areas.
Where you can find them
- Shopping malls: Malls make excellent charging locations because they already have the electrical capacity to handle fast DC chargers. You can shop, eat, or relax while your car charges.
- Petrol station forecourts: As drivers transition from fuel to electric, petrol stations are a natural fit for new charging sites. They’re convenient, familiar, and often include food or rest stops, perfect for a quick recharge on the road.
- Hotels & guest houses: More hotels are adding AC chargers for overnight top-ups. If you’re planning a stay, call ahead to confirm whether charging is available.
Free charging spots and how to find them
Yes, you can find dozens of free EV charging in South Africa, though these stations are limited and often slower.
Free chargers are typically installed at car dealerships, shopping malls, universities, and hotels or guesthouses. They’re offered either to attract customers or to enhance the visitor experience.
While free charging is a great bonus, don’t rely on it for long trips. These chargers are usually slow AC units and may go offline during load-shedding. Always confirm availability before planning a route around them.
Remember: free doesn’t always mean fast. If timing matters, use a paid DC fast charger instead.
How to plan a road trip with an EV in South Africa
Taking an electric vehicle on a road trip across South Africa is completely doable today, it just takes a little planning. With the right prep, you can travel confidently without worrying about running out of charge.
Here’s how to plan your trip like a pro:
- Know your car’s real-world range: The advertised rate when you buy your vehicle is an estimate under ideal conditions. In real life, factors like speed, air conditioning, and terrain can reduce it. A good rule of thumb is to use 70–80% of the claimed range when planning your route. That way, you’ll always have a buffer for unexpected detours or charger delays.
- Map out multiple stops: Use Google Maps, PlugShare, and GridCars together to plan your route. Identify not just your main charging stations but at least two backups along each leg of the trip. This redundancy keeps you covered if a charger is full, out of service, or offline due to faults or load-shedding.
- Pre-check connector types & payment methods: Not every network uses the same connector type or payment system. Some require an RFID card, others an app or contactless payment. Register or download any required apps before you leave, it’ll save time (and stress) when you’re on the road.
- Plan for loadshedding & offline chargers: Load-shedding can affect public charging reliability. Always have a Plan B, such as a slower charger at your accommodation or a backup stop along your route. If you’re staying overnight, confirm whether your hotel or guesthouse has charging facilities available.
- Pack essentials: Before hitting the road, make sure you’ve packed:
- Charging cables (Type 2 or portable)
- Adapters, if needed
- Charging apps and account logins
- A printed list of charger addresses (in case of poor signal)
A little preparation goes a long way toward a relaxed and enjoyable trip.
Rent an EV on Tarlen Carshare
Curious about what it’s really like to live with an EV? Before you buy, you can rent one and experience it for yourself.
Tarlen Carshare offers electric rentals, including the Jaguar I-Pace, so you can test how an EV fits into your lifestyle.
Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip or just want to see how daily charging works, renting is a great way to get hands-on experience without commitment.
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