Article updated June 20, 2025
As zero-emission vehicles become increasingly widespread, habits related to refueling are changing dramatically. Instead of traditional fuel stations, charging stations are becoming the key infrastructure for practical and affordable electric mobility.
In this article we take a detailed look at what they are, how they are used, what types exist, and the real costs and timeframes for "filling up" with energy in 2025.
Why columns are critical in 2025
Expansion of the public charging network is the main driver for the mass adoption of electric cars. Extensive and reliable coverage of charging stations plays a crucial role for several reasons:
- Reduces range anxiety: knowing that you can rely on numerous charging points along your route, especially on long trips, eliminates the main concern of electric motorists.
- Facilitates long journeys: a well-distributed network of rapid and ultra-rapid stations (HPCs) makes it possible to cross the country with stopping times comparable to those of a conventional vehicle.
- Supports those who do not have a garage: offers a much-needed charging solution for those who live in apartments or do not have the ability to install a private wallbox.
- It increases confidence in the system: a robust and technologically advanced infrastructure, such as the one that operators like Powy are developing with 100 percent renewable energy, incentivizes the transition to more sustainable mobility.
Station types: AC, DC and HPC
The columns are distinguished primarily by the type of current delivered, which directly impacts the speed of charging.
Alternating Current (AC)
Alternating current (AC) charging is the most popular technology in urban, domestic, and hospitality or business facilities.
In this case, the post supplies alternating current to the vehicle, which uses its own on-board charger (an internal converter) to convert it to direct current (DC) and store it in the battery.
Power is generally lower and charging times are longer, making it ideal for extended stops, such as those at night, during working hours, or during activities in one's routine.
Direct current (DC)
Direct current (DC) charging is the solution for those who need speed. These stations, also called "rapid" or "ultra-rapid" (HPC - High-Power Charging), have a very powerful converter inside them.
Energy is converted from AC to DC directly in the column and sent without intermediaries to the vehicle's battery. This process makes it possible to achieve very high power outputs (from 50 kW to over 350 kW) and drastically reduce dwell times.
These are the stations typically found along highways and at major traffic hubs.
Charging powers and actual times
Using a charging station is generally simple. Once the car is parked near the station, simply connect the cable to the vehicle and start charging. This can be activated in various ways, depending on the operator: via an app, an RFID card, reading a QR code or even a POS terminal.
It is important for users to know the maximum charging power supported by their car (expressed in kW) and the type of compatible connector, as not all stations are the same. Some stations, for example, offer only AC charging, others only DC charging, and the speed of charging can vary significantly.
Charging time depends mainly on two factors: the power delivered by the charging station and the battery capacity of the vehicle. For example, a small city car might take less time to charge than an electric SUV with a large capacity battery.
Here is a comparative table to get an idea of time and cost:
Comparative table of charging times and costs per 100 km (estimate for average vehicle)
| Charging Type | Typical power | Minutes per 100 km (estimate) | Average cost €/kWh (Europe) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic AC | 3 - 7.4 kW | 60 - 180 | 0,20 - 0,40 |
| Publish AC | 11 - 22 kW | 20 - 40 | 0,35 - 0,60 |
| Public DC | 50 kW | 10 - 15 | 0,50 - 0,80 |
| Public DC+ and HPC | 150 kW+ | 3 - 5 | 0,70 - 1,00+ |
Note: Costs and timeframes are approximate and may vary by provider, subscribed rate, vehicle model, and battery condition, as well as by specific country within Europe.
How much does it cost to charge today in Italy
The cost of recharging an electric vehicle in Italy varies significantly depending on the type of charging station, the operator and the tariff plan chosen. Home charging has costs that can range between €0.25/kWh and €0.40/kWh, depending on one's energy supply contract.
As for public recharging, prices are slightly different. Alternating current (AC) columns have rates that average between €0.40/kWh and €0.60/kWh.
For rapid and ultrafast direct current (DC) charges, costs can be as low as €0.80/kWh or even over €0.95/kWh, especially for ultra-high power (HPC) stations along highways.
It is always advisable to check for updated rates via dedicated apps or on the websites of charging service providers. (Source: Motus-E)
How much does it cost to charge today in Spain
In Spain, electric vehicle charging costs also vary depending on the type of charging point and operator.
Similar to Italy, home charging is generally priced between €0.15/kWh and €0.30/kWh for standard tariffs, but can be lower with dedicated time slot contracts.
Alternating current (AC) columns in Spain typically have costs ranging from 0.30€/kWh to 0.55€/kWh. For fast and ultrafast (DC) charging, prices can vary between 0.50€/kWh and 0.90€/kWh, with High Power Charging (HPC) stations located in strategic locations, such as along highways, tending to have the highest costs.
As in other European countries, it is advisable to use charging apps or consult local operator websites for the most up-to-date and specific rates. (Source: European Alternative Fuels Observator)
AFIR Regulatory Requirements, NRP 2025, Plan Moves.
The deployment of charging infrastructure is supported by major regulatory and funding initiatives, both at the European and national levels, to accelerate the transition to electric mobility. Regulation (EU) 2023/1804 (AFIR - Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation) is the European regulatory pillar. It sets binding targets for the deployment of electric vehicle charging and refueling infrastructure for alternative fuels.
AFIR aims to ensure minimum coverage along the EU's main road network by specific dates, reducing range anxiety and promoting confidence in e-mobility. This regulation is crucial for harmonizing infrastructure development among member states.
In Italy, the PNRR (National Recovery and Resilience Plan) allocates significant investments for the development of sustainable mobility, including the construction of new charging stations. These funds aim to upgrade the existing network, especially in less covered areas and along strategic arterial roads.
By 2025, the network is expected to be further strengthened and more widespread, with a special focus on high-power infrastructure, helping to achieve the fleet electrification goals.
Spain has adopted Plan MOVES (Programa de Incentivos a la Movilidad Eficiente y Sostenible), a key initiative to support electric mobility. Now in its several editions (e.g., MOVES III), this plan offers not only subsidies for the purchase of electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, but also includes specific funding for the installation of charging points.
Plan MOVES incentivizes the deployment of charging infrastructure for both public and private use, facilitating the adoption of electric vehicles through improved accessibility and direct economic support for the infrastructure.
FAQ on electric charging
How long does it take for a 0-80 % charge?
The time required to charge a battery from 0% to 80% depends on various factors, including the capacity of the vehicle battery, the power of the charging post, and the health of the battery. With slow charging (3-7 kW), it can take many hours (e.g., 8-12 hours). With fast charging (22-50 kW), the time is reduced to 1-3 hours. With ultrafast charging (100 kW and above), 80% can be reached in 20-40 minutes for most vehicles.
What is the difference between Type 2 socket and CCS Combo 2 socket?
The Type 2 (or Mennekes) outlet is the European standard for alternating current (AC) charging. It allows vehicle charging both at home and at public AC charging stations, with powers ranging from 3 kW to 22 kW (three-phase).
The CCS Combo 2 (Combined Charging System) is a connector that integrates the Type 2 socket with two additional pins for direct current (DC) charging. It is the European standard for fast and ultra-fast DC charging, and allows very high power outputs (from 50 kW to over 300 kW). Most modern electric cars in Europe use the CCS Combo 2 socket.
Can I charge when it rains?
Yes, it is absolutely safe to charge an electric vehicle even when it rains. The charging stations and cables are designed and built to withstand the weather and are equipped with safety systems that prevent short circuits and electric shocks. The outlets are insulated and the connectors ensure a safe and water-protected connection.
Want to know more about the technical aspects of electric cars and electric charging stations? Read here
About Powy
Powy is a company that owns, develops and operates Italy's leading independent network of public charging infrastructure for electric vehicles, with a growing presence in Spain as well.
Founded in Turin, Italy in 2018, Powy is at the center of the transition to more sustainable mobility, offering an innovative charging infrastructure that uses only 100 percent renewable energy.
Powy 's network includes quick, fast, and ultra-fast charging solutions strategically placed in public and private parking lots, supermarkets, shopping malls, and transportation hubs to ensure maximum convenience and accessibility for EV drivers. Each station is equipped with advanced technologies to provide a reliable and efficient charging experience.
Learn more: wpowy.energy