How to find low-cost or free EV charging in London
At Otto Car, we know that many PCO drivers rely on public electric vehicle (EV) chargers and keeping the pricing down of this is essential. Thatâs why weâve put together everything you need to know to help you find low-cost - and even free - EV charging options in London.
As the UK gears up for the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate in 2035, the number of public chargers is rising. However, more chargers donât always mean more free ones. Affordable options are out there - you just need to know where to look.
- Are there any free EV charging stations in London?
- How many EV charging points are there in London?
- What are the best apps for finding free EV charging points
- What are the most common free charging locations?
- Whatâs the fastest speed for free EV chargers?
- How can I save time and money public charging my EV?
Are there any free EV charging stations in London?
Yes, but theyâre limited. According to May 2025 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 cityâs 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.
At Otto Car, our team of experts stays ahead of the curve with industry-led knowledge to guide you through every part of the journey - from choosing the right EV with one of our Rent to Buy or PCO Car Hire plans (or our Accelerate plan for new Uber Partners), to understanding how to keep running costs low.
How many EV charging points are there in London?
As of 31 May 2025, Greater London has over 24,700 public EV charging points - more than any other UK region. Of these, 1,362 are rapid chargers, which are typically more expensive but ideal for time-sensitive PCO drivers.
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 UKâs public charging network and allows you to filter results to show only âfree-to-useâ locations. Key tips:
- Use filters: select âFree to Useâ, âPublic Accessâ, correct plug type, and âAll Networksâ to broaden your scope.
- Check the âInfoâ and âChatâ 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 UKâs largest EV charging networks and while it doesnât 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 donât need a subscription to use the app - unlike other providers, itâs free to download and use, keeping your overall charging costs lower, even if youâre using a paid charge point.
- Pay-as-you-go simplicity for chargers that arenât 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. Zapmapâs user-reported filters can identify free PodPoint spots that arenât 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 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 youâre 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 youâre 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 youâre 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.
Whatâs the fastest speed for free EV chargers?
Most free EV chargers in the UK are âslowâ (under 8kW). Youâre never going to get unlimited free supercharging - in fact, 64% of free chargers fall into the âslowâ 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.
Did you know?
If you drive for Uber, you can save with their PowerUp package in partnership with bp pulse exclusive rates including:
- 27p/kWh (up to 7kW)
- 49p/kWh (50kW and above)
How can I save time and money public charging my EV?
Knowing where chargers are isnât enough - you need to plan smart to make sure you minimise your time charging and maximise your time on the road earning. Hereâs how:
- Check real-time availability before heading to a location.
- Read user reviews to avoid broken or busy charge points thatâll 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 into the future with Otto Car
As Londonâs largest community of private hire drivers, weâve 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, weâre 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 wonât be surprises.
Visit one of our hubs or call 020 3995 1316. The friendly Otto Team is here to help.
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