With the Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) coming into force in the first quarter of 2024, a new era is dawning for electric vehicle users in Europe. The mandatory introduction of payment terminals at charging stations aims to standardize and simplify the charging experience across the continent.
With the adoption of this technology, EV drivers can now benefit from a universal and straightforward payment method, eliminating the need to subscribe to specific services or manage multiple applications. This not only simplifies the charging process, making payment as easy as for a traditional fill-up but also increases transparency by allowing users to see the cost of charging in real-time.
Harmonization of payments and increased transparency
The new European regulations require not only the transparency of charging costs but also the facilitation of payment methods on an international scale. Castles Technology meets these requirements with the U1F and S1U2 payment terminals to enable universal acceptance of credit card payments and other electronic options.
This payment system has found a direct application on all charging stations deployed in Europe. By using technology from Castles Technology, a global supplier of payment terminals, these stations not only ensure compliance with the AFIR but also help to streamline and optimize operational costs and processes. Simplifying cross-border payment, thanks to secure payment solutions, allows users to cross borders without worrying about different national payment methods, thus offering a smoother and less stressful experience.
Environmental impact and long-term vision
The use of Castles Technology payment terminals not only brings a functional improvement but also contributes to the ecological effort of the electric automotive industry. The terminals reduce waste and energy consumption thanks to optimized life cycles in the deployment and management of payment systems. This is crucial as Europe moves towards greener and more sustainable mobility.
Castles Technology’s long-term vision goes beyond meeting current demands. The company seeks to improve the customer experience for electric vehicle users by providing an efficient and secure service.
