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Questions and answers about electric mobility
Want to learn more about da emobil’s services, explore our public charging network, or need quick help while charging?
Our comprehensive FAQ section provides clear answers to the most common questions – quick, simple and easy to understand. If you need further assistance, our team is just a call away at +43 50 2277 2277, or you can contact us via our online form.
So, nothing stands in the way of your mobility.
Charging process
How do I charge an electric vehicle?
An electric vehicle can be charged using a portable charging cable at a high-voltage socket, a wallbox or charging station using alternating current (AC), or at a fast-charging station using direct current (DC).
How do I start the charging process?
There are several ways to start a charging session. In most cases, charging is activated using a RFID medium (such as a charging card or key fob), via a QR code at the charging point, or through the operator’s app.
If the charging station supports Plug & Charge, simply connecting your vehicle is enough. In this case, authentication and communication take place automatically between the vehicle and the charging station.
For further details on the charging process, please refer to our charging instructions.
How long does it take to fully charge an electric vehicle?
An AC charge at 11 kW takes around 4–8 hours. Depending on the vehicle, DC fast charging can take around 15–60 minutes.
It is important to note that charging times depend on several factors, including:
- Your vehicle’s battery capacity
- The type of current (AC/DC)
- The vehicle’s charging power
Charging times can vary depending on a range of factors, making it difficult to provide exact estimates.
For more detailed information, please refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual or contact your vehicle manufacturer directly.
Alternatively, you can calculate the approximate charging time for your vehicle using the following formula:
Charging time (hours) = battery capacity (kWh)/charging power (kW)
Do I always have to charge my electric vehicle to 100 %?
No, as modern batteries do not need to be fully charged or completely discharged. You can interrupt or resume the charging process at any time.
How can I find da emobil charging stations?
Are the charging stations available 24/7?
In most cases, yes – many da emobil charging stations are accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
However, availability may vary depending on the location. Some site partners – such as car parks or supermarkets – may have restricted opening hours. You can usually find this information in the app or on the location’s website.
Hardware
What types of charging stations are there?
Generally, there are three categories: standard chargers (AC, <23 kW), high-power chargers (DC, 23–150 kW) and ultra-high-power chargers (DC, >150 kW).
Standard charging stations use alternating current and typically offer a charging power of 22 kW, though up to 44 kW is possible. The actual charging time depends heavily on the specific vehicle, as well as other factors. These stations are primarily intended for home and workplace use, where longer charging times can easily be accommodated.
High-power chargers and ultra-high-power chargers use direct current and have a charging power between 23 and 1000 kW. The actual charging time depends heavily on the specific vehicle, as well as other factors. However, high-power chargers generally enable shorter charging times than standard chargers. This is why high-power chargers are increasingly being installed at motorway service stations and other locations where charging time is limited.
There are also differences in the software: smart charging stations are distinguished from so-called “plug-and-play” charging stations.
Plug-and-play charging stations do not have a built-in communication module. Charging takes place without authentication, simply by plugging in the charging cable. These charging stations use alternating current and have a charging power output of 3.7 to 22 kW.
Smart charging stations feature an integrated communication module, which enables charging via a charging card, QR code, app, Autocharge or Plug & Charge. These charging stations are available as AC and DC models and have charging capacities ranging from 3.7 to 44 kW (AC) and from 23 to 1000 kW (DC).
What charging capacities do AC and DC stations usually provide?
- Generally, electric vehicles charge at AC speeds of 11 to 22 kW, most commonly at 11 kW.
- DC charging is now possible at speeds ranging from 50 to ~1000 kW.
- The actual charging power depends on factors including your vehicle’s battery capacity and maximum charging power.
How do I find the right charging solution for my business?
Our experts provide personal guidance to help you develop the perfect setup for your charging infrastructure.
From tailored concepts and premium hardware to implementation, operation, billing and maintenance – da emobil offers a fully integrated solution.
With our dedicated support and powerful software, you benefit from a reliable, future-ready system.
What should I bear in mind when buying a charging station?
a) Charging power. How quickly can my car charge?
Generally speaking, there are two types of charging: AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current). Each “charging type” has its own pros and cons, although AC charging is currently the most common in the private sector. The maximum charging power usually ranges from 3.7 to 22 kW. The charging station and charging cable can also affect the maximum power available. In this case, the weakest component determines the charging power. Charging time can be calculated using the following formula:
Charging time (h) = battery capacity (kWh)/charging power (kW)
b) Plug system: What type of charging plug does my vehicle have?
Different plug systems are used depending on the manufacturer. In Europe, the Type 2 plug is standard, although Asian and American models still occasionally use the Type 1 plug. Anyone wishing to install a fixed charging cable should ensure that it is compatible with their vehicle. Charging stations with a Type 2 socket provide full flexibility, as other types of charging cables can be connected as required. Such charging stations are particularly widespread in public areas.
c) What should I look out for when choosing a charging station manufacturer?
Opt for quality products that have been thoroughly tested by installation companies and car manufacturers. A quick consultation can help you determine which charging station is right for you.
d) Which additional features do I really need?
As electric mobility develops rapidly, the demands on the charging infrastructure are also increasing. “Smart and compatible with other new technologies” is the motto here, and only a smart charging station can deliver that. This allows you to make use of smart functions, such as charging using surplus energy from a solar panel system and ensures that you are well equipped for future needs. If required, the smart communication module also enables billing.
e) What are the minimum legal requirements?
Publicly accessible charging stations must meet certain legal requirements. These include calibration right, the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR), and fiscalisation (payment terminals).
- Compliance with calibration right ensures that charging stations use a certified metering system that accurately and legally records the amount of energy charged in kilowatt-hours (kWh). This makes measurement and billing transparent and reliable for users.
- The AFIR (Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation) sets out minimum EU-wide requirements for charging infrastructure, including standards for price transparency, payment options and technical functionality.
- Fiscalisation refers to the legal and technical requirements that ensure payment systems operate securely and without manipulation, with all transactions recorded accurately and in compliance with regulations.
f) Who will carry out the installation of the charging station?
We recommend having the electrical installation planned and carried out by a qualified electrician. We would be happy to put you in touch with local electricians.
g) What costs will occur for purchase and installation?
The conditions at the planned charging point location play a key role in determining the cost.
- How far is the parking space from the fuse box?
- Is any excavation work required?
- Can the charging point be wall-mounted, or is a stand required?
- Is there already a power supply to the location?
The answers to these questions can have a significant impact on the costs.
What should be considered when installing a charging station?
- The length of the charging cable should be chosen to suit the installation location.
- Each charging point should be connected to a separately fused circuit.
- The fuse must match the cable’s current-carrying capacity and the charging power.
- Each charging station must be protected by an individual ground fault circuit interrupter (RCD), either Type B or Type A with DC residual current detection.
- The cable cross-section must be rated for the desired charging power, e. g. 22 kW (32 A).
- The futureproofing of the charging station should be considered.
What types of plugs are available for electric vehicles?
a) Type 2 plug
The most widely used plug in Europe. Common charging power ratings for private use go up to 22 kW (400 V, 32 A), while public charging points can provide up to 44 kW (400 V, 63 A).
b) CCS Combo plug
This plug supplements the Type 2 plug with two additional power contacts to provide a fast-charging function, supporting DC charging.
c) MCS plug
The Megawatt Charging System is specifically being developed for heavy-duty electric vehicles, enabling significantly higher charging power. Building on the Combined Charging System (CCS), it allows charging power of up to 3.75 MW. This means that even large electric lorries or other heavy commercial vehicles can be charged quickly and efficiently, making them much more suitable for long-distance transport.
d) Type 1 plug
A single-phase plug that allows charging capacities of up to 7.4 kW (230 V, 32 A). Type 1 plugs are rarely found in Europe and are mainly found on older vehicles from Asia and North America.
e) CHAdeMO connector
This fast-charging system, which was developed in Japan, supports charging rates of up to 100 kW. However, most public charging points only offer a power output of 50 kW. CHAdeMO plugs are now rarely found in Europe. The following manufacturers offer electric cars that are compatible with the CHAdeMO plug: BD Automotive, Citroën, Honda, Kia, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Peugeot, Subaru, Tesla (with an adapter) and Toyota.
Is my electric vehicle compatible?
If it uses the standard plug types common in Europe, such as Type 2 for AC charging or CCS for DC fast charging, you can usually charge it at da emobil charging stations without any problems. (The different plug types are listed in detail under the question “What types of plugs are available for electric vehicles?”)
To ensure safe charging, we recommend checking the following:
- Your vehicle’s plug type and charging power. Refer to the owner’s manual or technical data sheet to determine which connectors your vehicle supports and its maximum charging power.
- The plug type at the charging station: Check the app or location details to see if the charging point provides the correct connection (e. g. Type 2 or CCS).
If the vehicle and charging station connections match, and your vehicle supports the offered charging power, charging should be possible without any problems.
Can I use my PV electricity to charge my electric vehicle?
In most cases, yes – your electric vehicle can be charged using solar (PV) energy, for example through an energy management system or PV surplus charging.
The exact setup will depend on your individual installation, including your PV system, wallbox, home wiring and any control or backend systems in place.
What subsidies are available for electric mobility in Austria?
Charging Card/Charging App
How can I get a da emobil and GUTMANN hybrid card?
Applying is quick and straightforward. Simply complete the online application form, and your hybrid card will be sent to you by mail.
You can access the application form online or pick one up at many GUTMANN petrol stations.
Already using a GUTMANN fuel card? You can easily switch to the hybrid card by providing your customer number.
What services does the da emobil and GUTMANN hybrid card offer?
With this card, you can charge your vehicle at all da emobil and partner charging stations, as well as making use of the services available at all GUTMANN and DISK petrol stations, including refuelling, car washes and shopping. You can apply for app access at the same time as applying for the card. If you already have a hybrid card, send an email with your card number and associated email address to support@da-emobil.com to apply for app access.
Benefits at a glance:
- CHARGING: Charge your electric vehicle at one of the largest charging networks in Austria (da emobil’s own network and roaming partner network).
- FUELLING: Refuel at GUTMANN and DISK petrol stations – there are over 100 across Austria.
- CAR WASH: Car washes can be automatically recorded on the digital car wash pass. Every 8th car wash is free.
- BILLING: You’ll receive a monthly statement with a detailed overview of all refuelling and charging transactions.
- APP: Optional use of the da emobil app for even greater convenience and clarity. Find out more here.
Is there a fee for the hybrid card?
A one-off activation fee of € 10.00 (incl. VAT) applies when you receive your da emobil and GUTMANN hybrid card.
How do I pay with my da emobil and GUTMANN hybrid card?
Paying with the card is convenient, straightforward and cashless. Simply pay with your card at the charging station. You can also use it at over 100 GUTMANN and DISK petrol stations to pay for charging, refuelling, car washes and car-related products. At the end of the month, you will receive an invoice by email which you can pay via SEPA direct debit.
How do I receive my invoice?
You will receive your invoice for using the hybrid card or app by email.
Where can I charge my vehicle with the da emobil and GUTMANN hybrid card?
You can use the da emobil and GUTMANN hybrid card to charge your vehicle in Austria, Germany and Italy. Our interactive charging network map shows all charging stations that you can access with the hybrid card or charging app.
You have access to the da emobil network, partner networks, and roaming charging stations operated by other providers outside the da emobil network. Billing still takes place at the end of the month via SEPA direct debit as usual, but the rates depend on the respective provider.
In which countries can I charge using da emobil roaming?
Roaming means charging using a charging card, QR code or app at charging stations operated by providers outside the da emobil network. Currently, roaming charging sessions can be carried out with the da emobil and GUTMANN hybrid card in Germany, Austria and Italy.
You can find the available charging stations on the interactive charging network map.
Can I use my hybrid card to charge my vehicle at home?
No, home charging requires a separate RFID device, such as a charging card or charging chip. We can provide this, or you may already have one. You do not need an RFID device for plug-and-play charging stations.
What should I do if I lose my hybrid card?
Can I filter the station search in the da emobil app?
In the da emobil app, you can filter by voltage type, power class, plug type and address. There is no direct filter option such as “da emobil only.” However, you can see whether a charging station belongs to da emobil: da emobil charging stations have an EVSE ID beginning with “AT*DAE.” You can find this information under “Connections” for the respective station.
Further practical filter options can be found on our website in the charging network section. There, you can choose to display only da emobil charging stations, amongst other things.
What features does the da emobil app offer?
The app provides mobile access to all information relating to charging and payment. With just a few taps, you can find charging stations in all federal states. Thanks to the clear map display on the station finder, you can quickly and easily find the nearest available charging station in the da emobil network or at any roaming partner, with location details and current pricing. The QR code scanner allows you to pay quickly and securely (see “How do I charge an electric vehicle?” and “How do I start the charging process?” for more information). At the end of the month, you will receive an invoice by email. The invoice amount is settled via SEPA direct debit.
Would you like to use the da emobil app? If so, please send an image of your hybrid card and your preferred email address to support@da-emobil.com for user creation.
Tariffs/Billing
How much does public charging cost?
Rates depend on the charging card or app subscription used.
To find out the current ad hoc rate, scan the QR code or use the payment terminal at the relevant charging point. This price is determined by the charging station operator.
You can find all the information about current public charging rates with the da emobil and GUTMANN hybrid card on our tariffs page.
Which payment methods does da emobil support?
You can pay in various ways:
- QR code payment (ad hoc charging): Simply scan the QR code at the charging station, select your payment method, then pay.
- Payment terminals at selected stations: At charging stations with direct payment terminals, you can pay by debit/credit card or Google/Apple/Samsung Pay.
- da emobil app: Select a charging point in the app to start or stop the charging process. The amount due is recorded, and you will receive an invoice by email at the end of the month.
- Hybrid card from da emobil and GUTMANN: Hold the hybrid card up to the card reader to start and end the charging process, then unlock your vehicle and disconnect the charging cable. The amount due is recorded by the card and you will receive a consolidated invoice by email at the end of the month.
- Roaming charging cards: Please note that the rates per kWh may vary depending on the payment method.
You can find detailed charging instructions here.
How is billing handled with the da emobil and GUTMANN hybrid card?
You simply pay with your hybrid card at the charging station. You can also use the card at over 100 GUTMANN and DISK petrol stations to pay for charging, refuelling, car washes, and car-related products. At the end of the month, you will receive an invoice by email, which you can pay via SEPA direct debit.
Are there any parking or standing charges during charging?
The amount depends on the specific tariff and operator of the charging station. Please refer to the detailed information on our tariffs page for more information. Generally, the following applies to customers with the da emobil and GUTMANN Hybrid Card:
- Charging at da emobil’s own network and partner stations: Parking fees may apply after 3 hours for charging sessions. These are listed in detail in our tariff overview.
- Charging at roaming stations operated by other providers: If you charge at a roaming station operated by another provider, the respective roaming partner's prices apply.
Different tariffs may apply to customers using apps or charging cards from other providers.
Why are some charging points billed by time rather than by kWh?
Currently, there is no standardised regulation in Austria regarding the billing method at electric charging stations. However, we are working hard to find a solution that will make the tariffs clearer.
Currently, billing depends on the operator of the charging station and the type of charging.
If you charge at a da emobil station using your charging or hybrid card, app or QR code, you will be charged by kWh and potential standing charges may apply.
If you charge at a roaming partner using your hybrid card, a different billing method with varying tariffs may apply depending on the operator. We recommend checking the prices in advance via the da emobil app.
What does roaming mean?
How are roaming charging transactions billed?
As usual, charges will be billed via your monthly bill or your preferred payment method. However, the rate depends on the charging station operator.
Faults/Help
The charging station isn’t working. – What can I do?
The charging cable won’t release. – What should I do?
If the cable won’t come loose, follow the steps below to end the charging process:
1. Stop the charging process via the da emobil app or by holding your charging card up to the reader again.
2. Unlock the vehicle. Many electric vehicles automatically secure the cable during the charging process. Only unlocking the vehicle releases the vehicle-side lock.
3. First, disconnect the cable from the vehicle, then from the charging station. This order is important because the connectors on both sides may be locked.
If the cable remains stuck, there are further options:
- Lock and unlock the vehicle again.
- Switch the vehicle on and off again. Some vehicles release the charging socket lock during the start/stop process.
- Check the cable: Is it twisted or under tension?
- Use the emergency release on the charging socket. Many vehicles have a mechanical or electronic emergency release. Typical locations (the exact position varies by model; please refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual):
• in the boot (usually behind a small flap near the charging socket)
• in the side panel near the charging socket
• as a symbol switch near the driver’s door
• on the vehicle display as the menu option “Unlock charging cable”
If the problem persists, please feel free to contact our support team.
Can strangers stop my charging session?
No, because the same card or app authorisation required to start the session is also needed to stop it, and the vehicle must be unlocked.
Any further questions?
Still looking for answers about electric mobility? Get in touch with our team of experts!