Since April 13, 2024, the AFIR (Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation) has been in effect. This European regulation sets requirements for alternative fuel infrastructure — including public charging stations, hydrogen stations, and shore power — focusing on availability, interoperability, price transparency, and accessible payment options.

MobilityPlus helps its customers ensure their charging stations are fully AFIR-compliant, with solutions that make price information transparent and payments easier and more secure than ever.

What exactly is AFIR?

AFIR stands for Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation. This EU regulation not only defines standards for public charging stations but also for other infrastructure supporting the use of alternative fuels.

Under AFIR, every EV driver must be able to:

View transparent pricing before a charging session starts;
Pay with common payment methods;
Enjoy safe and user-friendly access to the charging point.

In addition, AFIR defines rules regarding minimum coverage, interoperability between networks, real-time data availability, and uniform payment methods across Europe.

CPO and MSP: What’s the difference?

To fully understand AFIR, it’s useful to know two key terms:

CPO

A CPO (Charge Point Operator) manages the charging stations — this is what MobilityPlus does for you.

MPS

A Mobility Service Provider (MSP) offers charging cards and apps that enable drivers to charge at thousands of locations. MobilityPlus also plays this role, giving access to one of Europe’s largest charging networks.

💡 Note: The price displayed at the charging station and the price you ultimately pay may differ — the CPO sets the base price at the charging point, while the MSP can apply its own service fees.

MobilityPlus AFIR solutions

1. Price transparency via display

On Alfen chargers with a display, MobilityPlus shows the CPO price directly on the screen — the rate that applies when paying with a traditional payment method. This ensures that every user knows the cost upfront.

Note: When paying via an MSP (for example, with a charging card), the final price may differ, as the MSP may apply its own tariff structure.

2. Secure QR payments via dynamic QR code

Our Alfen chargers support Dynamic QR codes for direct payment. Unlike static QR codes (which are vulnerable to fraud), each session generates a unique, secure QR code.

This allows anyone — even without a charging card or account — to easily pay using their preferred method (banking app, Visa, Mastercard, debit card, etc.).

Note: No personal data required, no obligations — just safe, simple charging and payment.

3. Payment terminals

For maximum ease of use, MobilityPlus also provides payment terminals alongside charging stations:

The price on the charger display matches the price shown on the terminal.
All common payment methods (Bancontact, credit card, smartphone, etc.) are supported.
The terminal offers an intuitive experience, similar to a traditional fueling session.

AFIR evolution and future-proof compliance

AFIR continues to evolve. Starting in 2026, additional requirements will come into effect, including mandatory support for ISO 15118 on new charging stations. This standard enables advanced communication between the vehicle and the charging point, paving the way for technologies such as:

Plug & Charge: The charger automatically recognizes the vehicle — no card needed.
Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X): Bidirectional charging and energy sharing with the grid.

With MobilityPlus solutions, your charging stations are fully AFIR-compliant and ready for future developments. We ensure your infrastructure remains legally compliant, user-friendly, secure, and transparent — so that both customers and visitors can charge with peace of mind, today and tomorrow.

Want to partner with a provider whose charging stations are fully compliant with the new European regulations?

Our experts are ready to advise and support you with tailored solutions.

Ready for AFIR: How MobilityPlus ensures your charging stations comply with the new European regulations