How to Charge an Electric Rental Car in Italy

Renting an electric car in Italy is an excellent way to travel sustainably while enjoying lower running costs and a smooth driving experience. 🚗💨 From the romantic streets of Rome to the stunning Amalfi Coast and the wine hills of Tuscany, an electric vehicle (EV) lets you explore Italy quietly and without emissions.

But to make the most of your trip, you need to know how and where to charge your EV. This complete guide will walk you through everything — charging station types, apps, prices, long-distance travel tips, and more.

1. Types of Charging Stations in Italy 🔌

Italy offers a variety of charging options, and understanding them will help you plan better:

• AC (Alternating Current) Charging – Slow to Medium ⚙️
  Speeds: 3–22 kW. Perfect for overnight charging at hotels or when parked for several hours.
• DC Fast Charging ⚡
  Speeds: 50–150 kW. Found on highways (Autostrade), shopping malls, and urban hubs. Charges most EVs from 20% to 80% in 30–60 minutes.
• Ultra-Fast Charging 🚀
  Speeds: 150–350 kW. Available along main routes like Rome–Florence–Milan. Can charge in 15–25 minutes.

Most rental cars in Italy use a Type 2 connector for AC and a CCS Combo connector for DC fast charging.

2. Where to Find Charging Stations 📍

EV charging points are now widespread in Italy, with thousands of locations across the country:

• 🅿️ Public Parking Garages – Common in big cities like Rome, Milan, Florence.
• 🛣 Autostrade Service Areas – Almost all major highways have fast chargers.
• 🏬 Shopping Centers & Supermarkets – Coop, Esselunga, Lidl, IKEA often provide chargers.
• 🏨 Hotels & Resorts – Many eco-friendly accommodations offer free charging to guests.

Top Networks in Italy:

• Enel X Way – Largest coverage, both AC and DC chargers.
• Be Charge – Expanding fast with many DC stations.
• Ionity – Ultra-fast chargers on main routes.
• Duferco Energia – Regional presence in the north.

3. Best Apps to Locate and Activate Chargers 📱

Before hitting the road, install these useful apps:

1. Enel X Way – 🇮🇹 Italy’s largest EV network.
2. Be Charge – Strong presence in urban areas.
3. Nextcharge – Great for trip planning with live availability.
4. PlugShare – User reviews & photos for each station.
5. Ionity – For high-speed charging along highways.

💡 Pro Tip: Ask your rental provider if they include an RFID charging card — it can save time when activating stations without a smartphone signal.

4. How to Charge – Step-by-Step Guide 🛠

Charging in Italy is straightforward:

1. Park correctly 🅿️ – Position your EV so the charging cable reaches easily.
2. Plug in 🔌 – Use your own cable (for AC) or the station’s cable (for DC).
3. Start the session 📲 – Via app or RFID card.
4. Monitor charging ⏳ – Keep an eye on the battery percentage and charging speed.
5. Stop and unplug ❌ – End session in the app, unplug, and close the charging port.

5. Charging Costs in Italy 💶

Prices depend on network and speed:

• AC Charging – €0.45–€0.65/kWh
• DC Fast Charging – €0.65–€0.85/kWh
• Ultra-Fast Charging – €0.80–€0.99/kWh

Example: A 50 kWh battery charged from 20% to 80% at a DC station costs around €15–€25.

Money-Saving Tips:

• Book hotels with free charging.
• Use supermarket chargers while shopping.
• Check for promotional tariffs in apps.

6. Long-Distance Travel with an EV in Italy 🗺

Exploring Italy by EV is easy if you plan charging stops:

Popular EV-Friendly Routes:

• Rome → Florence → Bologna → Milan 🏛
• Naples → Amalfi Coast → Salerno 🌊
• Milan → Lake Como → Dolomites ⛰

Most Autostrade service stations have at least one fast charger. In rural areas, such as small Tuscan villages or Sardinia’s countryside, plan ahead using apps like Nextcharge.

7. Charging in Italian Cities 🏙

Each city has its own specifics:

• Rome 🇮🇹 – Many chargers in parking garages; beware of ZTL (restricted zones).
• Florence 🎨 – Several fast chargers outside the old town.
• Milan 💼 – Dense network, including free municipal chargers in some zones.
• Naples 🍕 – Good coverage near main roads, but plan ahead for the historic center.

8. Understanding ZTL Zones 🚫

ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato) restricts car access to certain city areas. Some EVs can enter for free or at reduced cost — check local rules before entering. If your charger is inside a ZTL, ask your hotel or rental company how to register your plate.

9. Environmental & Practical Benefits 🌱

Choosing an EV rental in Italy means:

• ✅ Lower emissions & reduced carbon footprint.
• ✅ Possible free access to restricted zones.
• ✅ Lower running costs than petrol/diesel.
• ✅ Quiet, smooth driving experience — perfect for scenic roads.

10. Emergency Charging Options 🚨

If your battery is low and no fast charger is nearby:

• Ask your hotel for a regular socket (slow but works overnight).
• Use Tesla Superchargers (many are open to other brands via app).
• Call rental company assistance — they can guide you to the nearest charger.

11. Sample 7-Day EV Road Trip Itinerary 🚗🛣

Day 1–2: Rome → explore city chargers & local sights.
Day 3: Rome → Florence (fast charge mid-route).
Day 4: Florence → Bologna → Milan.
Day 5: Milan → Lake Como → Dolomites.
Day 6: Dolomites → Venice (charge before entering).
Day 7: Return via coastal route with stops at Ionity stations.

Final Thoughts 🎯

Charging an electric rental car in Italy is easier than ever thanks to the growing national charging network. Whether you’re cruising along the Amalfi Coast, discovering Tuscan vineyards, or driving through Rome’s historic streets, an EV offers comfort, eco-friendliness, and savings.

With the right apps, a bit of route planning, and knowledge of local charging options, your Italian road trip will be smooth, green, and unforgettable. 🇮🇹⚡