Refueling and Charging

Refuelling and charging an electric car: Austria is a popular travel destination that captivates not only with its breathtaking landscape but also with its well-developed infrastructure. Nevertheless, a certain amount of preparation is valuable to ensure a smooth trip. That's why in this article you'll find everything you need to know about charging and refuelling in Austria.

The most important information

• Refuelling in Austria is easy: there is an extensive network of petrol stations that covers both cities and rural regions well.

• Charging an electric car? Austria already offers many charging stations and is steadily expanding the network. This makes charging e-cars increasingly hassle-free.

• Fuel prices in Austria vary depending on the region and provider, with petrol and diesel often being cheaper than in Germany.

• Charging stations in Austria offer different payment methods. Most of the time you pay with credit cards or with special charging cards.

• Also, remember that in Austria (regardless of vehicle type) you need a vignette for many roads. You can buy one directly from us here.

Overview of the refuelling and charging network in Austria

Refuelling in Austria is very well organised: the country has a dense network of petrol stations that allows travellers to refuel without any trouble at any time. Charging electric cars is also becoming easier and easier: especially in urban areas and along the main traffic routes, there are numerous charging stations. The corresponding infrastructure is continuously being expanded and optimised.

The combination of traditional petrol stations and modern e-charging stations in Austria ensures that both combustion and electric vehicles are well supplied. This means that – with a bit of planning and an overview – you can travel through Austria completely worry-free and don't have to worry about running out of fuel or power.

Refuelling in Austria

Refuelling in Austria is completely straightforward thanks to the nationwide supply of petrol stations. Both in cities and in rural areas, you'll find numerous opportunities to refuel your vehicle. The supply is particularly good along the motorways, so even long journeys can be planned stress-free.

Network coverage of petrol stations

The petrol station network in Austria is very well developed, with a high density of petrol stations in urban areas and along the main roads. The most common petrol station operators include OMV, BP, Shell, Jet, Eni and Avanti. These providers are well represented in both urban areas and rural regions. In remote regions, the density may be lower. Nevertheless, there is usually always a petrol station within reach along the important connecting routes.

How expensive is fuel?

Fuel prices in Austria are (compared to other European countries) generally somewhat lower. Nevertheless, they can vary greatly (depending on region, provider and time of day). Cheap refuelling in Austria is often possible at discounters such as Hofer or providers such as Avanti or Turmöl. These petrol stations are among the more affordable providers, while brands such as OMV, BP and Shell tend to be somewhat more expensive.

In general, refuelling in Austria is often cheaper early in the morning or late in the evening. The same applies to refuelling in rural areas or near supermarkets and shopping centres. Along the motorways and in tourist regions, on the other hand, the prices for refuelling in Austria are often somewhat higher.

Payment methods at petrol stations

At most petrol stations in Austria you can pay both in cash and by credit card. Some petrol stations also offer mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay or Google Wallet. For international travellers, however, it is advisable to always have some cash in euros with you: especially in remote regions, not all cards may be accepted.

Charging an electric car in Austria

Austria is continuously investing in the expansion of charging stations for electric cars. This is intended to encourage the switch to more environmentally friendly vehicles. Charging electric cars in Austria is therefore now almost as easy as refuelling.

Plan your route in advance to make sure you always have a charging station within reach. You can also use special apps for this, such as Electromaps, PlugShare or Chargemap. These help you find charging stations and check their availability in real time. Also make sure that your electric car is charged during longer breaks or overnight. This way you save valuable time on your journey.

Charging stations

Charging stations in Austria are numerous. This is especially true in urban areas and along motorways. This means you can usually charge your vehicle without any problems.

You'll find the most charging stations in Austria in:

• Vienna

• Zell am See

• Sankt Johann im Pongau

• Innsbruck

• Schwaz

• Salzburg

• Klagenfurt am Wörthersee

• Kufstein

Charging stations: providers and charging cards

There are several major providers of charging stations in Austria, including in particular:

• BEÖ (Bundesverband Elektromobilität Österreich)

• TIWAG

• Wels Strom

• SMATRICS

• ÖAMTC

• Shell Recharge

These providers operate a dense network of electric charging stations distributed throughout the republic. To gain access to the charging stations or e-charging stations in Austria, you often need a charging card or a corresponding app. Among the best known are the charging cards from SMATRICS and Plugsurfing. These are accepted at many stations.

Charging an electric car: how it works!

Charging an electric car in Austria is very simple: at the charging stations, your vehicle is connected either via a Type 2 connector or a CCS connector. Depending on the station, the charging power varies, so your vehicle is charged either faster (at fast-charging stations) or slower. Most charging stations in Austria offer intuitive operation via touchscreen or app.

Charging an electric car: costs

By now there are many charging stations in Austria. The prices for use depend on various factors: the charging speed, the type of charging station and the provider. Typically, billing is done per kWh; however, at some stations billing is based on charging time or a flat fee. In general, prices for charging stations in Austria can vary greatly, with charging at fast-charging stations tending to be more expensive than at slower charging points.

Special features and tips for travellers

Charging electric cars and refuelling in Austria is generally straightforward. Nevertheless, there are a few special features you should keep in mind:

Refuelling and charging in rural areas

In remote regions, the density of petrol stations and charging stations may be lower. Plan refuelling and charging breaks accordingly in advance to avoid unnecessary detours. Especially in tourist hotspots, you should arrange a suitable charging spot in good time.

Refuelling and charging in tourist areas

In popular tourist areas such as the Alps or Lake Neusiedl, there are numerous petrol stations and charging stations. However, these can be very busy during peak season. Also remember that prices in these areas are often higher than in the rest of the country.

Using apps for route planning and price comparison

Use apps such as PACE Drive, Waze or special charging station apps such as Chargemap to find the nearest petrol station or charging station. These apps also offer price comparisons, making it easier for you to find cheap fuel in Austria.

With the help of these apps, you can plan your refuelling and charging breaks in advance. This way you avoid unnecessary stress and can enjoy your journey through Austria relaxed.

Note opening hours of petrol stations

Not all petrol stations in Austria are open around the clock. Especially in rural regions, you should keep an eye on the opening hours of petrol stations so you don't end up in front of closed pumps.

Weather-related peculiarities with electric cars

In winter, the cold can affect the range of electric cars. Plan your charging breaks more frequently accordingly and make sure your vehicle is pre-heated to protect the battery.

Don't forget the vignette!

Please note that you need a digital vignette for the motorways and expressways in Austria, regardless of whether you drive a normal or electric car. You can buy one easily and conveniently in our shop.

The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey!

Charging electric cars and refuelling in Austria is absolutely straightforward thanks to the well-developed infrastructure in the popular Alpine country. Whether on motorways, in cities or in rural areas: you'll find a suitable petrol station or charging station almost everywhere. Charging stations in Austria are particularly numerous in urban areas and along main roads. Petrol stations can be found throughout Austria. Make sure to refuel at cheaper times and use a charging card to charge your electric car quickly and easily.

We wish you a good journey to Austria and are happy to help with any questions about toll regulations. You'll find detailed information on the toll in Austria in our guide. Feel free to also use our route planner to plan your trip perfectly and see the appropriate toll products displayed. Contact us with any further questions about your trip or our digital vignette via our email. With a bit of planning and the right vignette, nothing stands in the way of your smooth journey through Austria.

FAQ about your trip

Which charging cards do you need in Austria?

In Austria, charging cards and apps from providers such as SMATRICS or Plugsurfing are widely used. With these you have access to most charging stations in the country.

Where can you charge for free in Austria?

Some charging stations offer free charging, especially at large supermarkets or shopping centres. Some hotels and restaurants also offer this service to their guests.

Is refuelling cheaper in Austria?

Yes, generally fuel prices in Austria for petrol and diesel are somewhat lower than in Germany. Nevertheless, prices can fluctuate greatly and there is no guarantee that you'll really save when refuelling in Austria.