What is Plug & Charge?
Plug & Charge is an authentication technology that makes your EV charging experience a lot smoother.
Let’s face it, the most common ways to charge an electric car can be a bit fiddly. While they get the job done, most of us would prefer a simpler, more user-friendly alternative.
Plug & Charge does exactly what it says on the tin. Instead of launching a charging session with a card or app, just plug your car in and it starts charging automatically.
What happens in the background?
Plug & Charge technology relies on standardized communication between your car, your charging app, and the charge point operator.
Before using the Plug & Charge feature, you’ll need to enable it in both your car and the Polestar Charge app. You’ll also need to enter your vehicle’s unique Plug & Charge ID number to link it to your account. This allows the technology to correctly identify your car, verify an account with a valid payment method, and authorize a charging session. After you’ve charged, you’ll see the receipt in your charging app.
Why is Plug & Charge such a game-changer?
While EV charging has steadily improved over the years, public charging hasn’t yet matched the convenience of refueling a traditional petrol or diesel car. However, Plug & Charge technology not only narrows this gap but potentially makes EV charging a superior experience.
Let’s move past nostalgia: instant, automated payments are far more convenient than exchanging a handful of cash for a tank of gas.
This seamless interaction between your car and charging stations represents a significant step towards a future where EV charging is effortless and accessible to all.
How to set up Plug & Charge for your Polestar 3?
Here’s a quick walkthrough for getting your car ready for Plug & Charge.
- Enable Plug & Charge in the car’s UI
- Copy your unique Plug & Charge ID number
- Activate Plug & Charge in the Polestar Charge app
- Enter the Plug & Charge ID
- Add your preferred payment method
- Start charging at any Plug & Charge compatible station
For now, Plug & Charge is only available for Polestar 3 at charging locations that support the Plug & Charge technology. You can find these chargers by using the map settings of your Polestar Charge app. At other locations, you’ll still need to use a card or app to start charging. If you wish to go back to charging with your card or app in all locations, you can always switch off the Plug & Charge feature in the app.
Need more details? Visit the Polestar Charge FAQ page for a comprehensive guide.
