Owning an electric vehicle in the UK is now easier than ever—if you’ve got the right tools.
The real challenge isn’t just battery range, it’s the planning: where to charge, how long it’ll take, and whether you’ll make it to your destination without stopping four times.
That’s where EV-specific apps come in.
From real-time charger locations to smart route mapping, these apps remove the guesswork and make every journey smoother.
Whether you’re commuting through London or heading up to Scotland on a weekend road trip, these are the apps every UK EV driver should have installed in 2025.
1. Zapmap: Still the UK’s Gold Standard
If you’re only downloading one app, let it be Zapmap.
It’s practically built for UK EV drivers.
With over 50,000 connectors mapped across the country, it shows availability, charger type, and even costs.
You can filter by network, speed, connector type, or payment method.
Best for: Route planning, live charger status, and payment integration.
Available on: iOS, Android, Web.
2. PlugShare: Crowdsourced Info, Global Reach
Though it’s more global, PlugShare works well in the UK too—especially if you’re taking longer road trips.
What sets it apart is the community-sourced feedback.
Drivers leave notes about broken chargers, access issues, or hidden stations in parking lots.
Best for: Community insights and cross-border EV travel.
Available on: iOS, Android, Web.
3. A Better Routeplanner (ABRP): Precision Routing for EVs
EV drivers who love data swear by ABRP.
It factors in your exact vehicle, battery size, current charge level, traffic, terrain, and weather to give hyper-accurate route plans.
It even tells you how long to stay at each charger.
Best for: Long-distance route optimization.
Available on: iOS, Android, Web.
4. ChargePoint: Handy if You Use This Network
ChargePoint has a growing presence in the UK, especially around business parks, supermarkets, and retail zones.
The app’s strength lies in controlling the charging session directly from your phone, tracking usage, and receiving cost estimates.
Best for: Managing charging sessions and real-time updates.
Available on: iOS, Android.
5. Bonnet: Simplifies Payment Across Networks
If you’re tired of juggling five different charge cards or apps, Bonnet is your answer.
It partners with major UK networks like Shell Recharge, BP Pulse, and Ionity to offer one seamless payment experience.
Best for: Unified payment and charging subscriptions.
Available on: iOS, Android.
6. EV8 Switch: Government-Backed Route Tool
Launched by the UK Government, EV8 Switch helps potential EV owners see how an EV could fit into their lives.
It analyses your daily driving via your phone’s GPS and suggests EV-friendly routes, energy savings, and even carbon emissions saved.
Best for: New or prospective EV drivers.
Available on: iOS, Android.
7. Tesla App: If You’re Driving a Tesla, Obviously
Tesla drivers don’t need most third-party apps.
The Tesla App handles charging, route planning via Superchargers, car diagnostics, and climate control.
Pair it with Tesla’s own in-car navigation and you’re covered.
Best for: All-in-one Tesla ownership.
Available on: iOS, Android.
8. WattsUp: UK-Centric and EV-Focused
Built specifically for the UK EV market, WattsUp offers real-time charger availability and live traffic updates.
It doesn’t just list chargers—it factors them into your route automatically.
It supports most major networks like Gridserve, Instavolt, and Osprey.
Best for: UK-specific route planning with live updates.
Available on: iOS, Android.
To Sum It Up
We explored the top apps every EV driver in the UK should consider using—covering route planning, payment, and real-time charger access.
Whether you’re in a Tesla or a Renault Zoe, these apps help make electric driving hassle-free.
The Right App Certainly Makes Your Life Easier
I’ve seen EV drivers stuck on the side of the M4 because they trusted a charger that hadn’t worked in months.
I’ve also seen road trips that went perfectly—all thanks to apps like Zapmap and ABRP.
The key takeaway? Don’t rely on your car’s default map alone.
These apps aren’t just helpful—they’re necessary.
Choose two or three that work well for your lifestyle and always have a backup.
EVs are the future, but only if you can plan for them smartly.
Explore more electric car guides, comparisons, and tools at AskAboutCars.com.
We’ve got your back—whether you’re buying, charging, or planning your next road trip.
