How to find free and cheap EV charging in London (2026 guide for PCO drivers)

Electric vehicle (EV) drivers in London are always looking for ways to reduce charging costs - especially if you’re a PCO driver covering high mileage.

While completely free EV charging is limited, there are still ways to dramatically cut your costs by combining free charging points, cheaper public networks, and low-cost home charging.

If you’re driving with Uber, you may also be able to unlock exclusive charging discounts - making your overall costs even lower.

In this guide, we’ll show you:

• Where to find free EV charging in London
• How to access the cheapest charging options available
• The best apps to find chargers near you
• How to combine everything into a low-cost charging strategy

Are there any free EV charging stations in London?

Yes, but they’re limited. According to data from Zapmap, Greater London has approximately 214 free EV charging points - the second highest number in the UK. However, that only represents around 1% of the city’s total charging infrastructure*.

As EV adoption grows, many of the previously free chargers have transitioned to paid models to meet rising demand. That said, we can expect the UK government to keep making progress to expand access and improve affordability.

*Many free charge points are managed by smaller, independent businesses and may not provide real-time updates. Zapmap relies on its user community to keep listings accurate.

Did you know?

Finding the best EV charging service provider is important, but so is making sure you choose the right electric car. This is one of the most important steps you can take to future-proof your driving career as an Uber driver.

At Otto Car, our team of experts stays ahead of the curve with industry-led knowledge. We guide private hire drivers through every part of the journey, from choosing the right EV available on one of our plans - Rent to Buy, PCO Car Hire, Part-time PCO Car Hire, or Accelerate (for new Uber Partners - to understanding how to keep running costs low as an EV driver.

How many EV charging points are there in London and how much does it cost?

As of March 2026, Greater London leads the way with the most EV chargers, totalling 30,912 - that's more than any other UK region. 

Charging costs vary widely depending on where and how you charge:

• Free chargers → £0 (limited availability)
• Home charging → typically cheapest per kWh with smart charging and the right energy provider
• Discounted networks → mid-range pricing and dependent on how fast you charge
• Rapid charging (pay-as-you-go) → most expensive

The key isn’t just finding free chargers nearby. It’s about minimising your average cost per charge and planning ahead, so you don’t have to rely on expensive or inconvenient fast chargers. Stay organised and plan your charging to keep costs low.

What are the best apps for finding free EV charging points

To avoid wasting time, and keeping your battery range full, you can use a range of helpful apps (with built in map services) to locate free charging points in select locations:

Zapmap

Website: zap-map.com

Zapmap covers about 95% of the UK’s public charging network and allows you to filter results to show only ‘free-to-use’ locations. Key tips:

• Use filters: select ‘Free to Use’, ‘Public Access’, correct plug type, and ‘All Networks’ to broaden your scope.
• Check the ‘Info’ and ‘Chat’ tabs for real-time user updates.
• Try the route planner to find free chargers along your journey - perfect for combining charging with a food break throughout your working day.
• Basic features are free; premium plans unlock advanced tools.

PodPoint

Website: pod-point.com

PodPoint is one of the UK’s largest EV charging networks and while it doesn’t offer as many filtering options for free EV charging like Zapmap, it still provides access to a wide range of public chargers. Keep in mind:

• You don’t need a subscription to use the app - unlike other providers, it’s free to download and use, keeping your overall charging costs lower, even if you’re using a paid charge point.
• Pay-as-you-go simplicity for chargers that aren’t free, you. can simply plug in and start charging with ease no RFID card.

Top tip:

Use Zapmap alongside PodPoint to help verify which PodPoint chargers are free. Zapmap’s user-reported filters can identify free PodPoint spots that aren’t as obvious in the PodPoint app itself.

What other helpful EV charging apps are there?

While Zapmap and PodPoint are the main apps to show free chargers, others can help with paid charging:

• Octopus Electroverse or Ovo Charge offer great discounts and have easy to use locator tools.
• The Uber Driver app includes EV-friendly routing with charging breaks factors in - perfect for planning around your shift.

What EV charging discounts are available to Uber drivers?

As the electric charge point infrastructure grows, so does the demand and the ability to find free or cheap EV charging solutions.

If you’re an Uber driver, you can access some of the cheapest public charging rates in London.

bp pulse - up to 43% cheaper charging

As one of the largest public charging networks in London, it’s an ideal solution for Uber drivers, with up to 43% off standard bp pulse rates. This includes rapid chargers and supports you while working on the go. They’ve partnered with TfL to expand their network to over 150 chargers across London and surrounding areas.

PodPoint home charging - 0% upfront, just £25/month

If you’re able to install a home charger for your EV, it’s a great way to save both time and money as an Uber driver. With no upfront cost, you can get a home charger with professional installation, saving you up to £1,000 over a 3-year subscription.

Alongside savings on the charger, installation, and subscription, you’ll also reduce your charging costs. Smart charging lets you take advantage of lower energy rates, helping you save even more before a busy day private hire driving.

Wallbox home charging - 24% discount

If you’re able to install a home charger, this is another great way to save as an Uber driver. With a 24% discount, you can save hundreds on a home charging setup, including an energy meter and Pulsar Max charger - helping you reduce costs when charging at home.

Earn more with Uber Green (and reduce your costs)

If you’re driving an electric vehicle, you can also unlock more earning opportunities through Uber Electric.

Uber Electric matches passengers specifically with electric vehicles, meaning:

• Access to more trip requests from passengers
• Potential for higher utilisation during busy periods
• Priority in areas where demand for EVs is growing

In short, switching to an EV doesn’t just reduce your costs - it can also help you earn more consistently. Whether you're looking to rent or own, explore our range of Uber Electric-eligible EVs available in London, ideal for PCO drivers.

What are the most common free charging locations?

Free chargers are most often found in popular public spaces:

• Accommodation: Hotels, holiday lets, and B&Bs often offer free charging - great if you’re driving tourists or staying overnight somewhere yourself.
• Attractions: Museums, zoos, theatres, and similar venues often include free destination charging as an incentive for visitors.
• Retail car parks: Especially outside London, larger supermarkets and shopping centres may provide free or discounted EV charging for customers.

Top tip:

Use Zapmap to filter results and show stations relevant to you based on location type. This will make your search easier while you’re on the go and help you have the general EV charging information you need all in one place.

Did you know?

Always check the general EV charging charging information and terms of use before plugging in. Many locations with electric vehicle chargers often:

• Require proof that you’re a customer (e.g. you must be a hotel guest or store visitor - which is already very common for parking requirements).
• Charge overstay fees if you leave your vehicle plugged in too long.
• Are only available during certain hours or to staff/customers only.

Otto Car often receives reports of Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) due to overstaying- so stay alert and keep more of your hard-earned cash to make sure you have the best EV charging experience.

What’s the fastest speed for free EV chargers?

Most free EV chargers in the UK are “slow” (under 8kW). You’re never going to get unlimited free supercharging - in fact, 64% of free chargers fall into the “slow” category, according to Zapmap.

A few free fast or rapid chargers exist but are typically located outside Central London, so may not be practical for all drivers. Use app filters to locate the nearest one that meets your speed needs.
 

How can I save time and money public charging my EV?

Knowing where chargers are isn’t enough - you need to plan smart to make sure you minimise your time charging and maximise your time on the road earning. Here’s how:

• Check real-time availability before heading to a location.
• Read user reviews to avoid broken or busy charge points that’ll be a waste of a journey travelling to.
• Download and set up accounts for all relevant apps ahead of time.

Learn more about all the ways you can save money with your EV as a private hire driver.

Drive electric with Otto Car

As London’s largest community of private hire drivers, we’ve supported over 20,000 drivers since 2015 in getting on the road and earning confidently. Whether you're new to electric or looking to switch, we’re here to help you make the smartest possible decision for your future.

Explore our range of electric vehicles through our Rent to Buy or PCO Car Hire plan that fits your needs. With our all-inclusive plans, you know that the weekly costs are clear and there won’t be surprises.

Visit one of our hubs or call 020 3995 1316 - our team is here to help.