In 2024, Austria‘s largest comprehensive fast-charging network expanded by approximately 250 ultra-fast charging points.
By the end of 2025, the SMATRICS EnBW charging network will include at least 200 additional high-power charging points, surpassing the 600-mark.
The demand for public charging facilities remains strong, as noted by Thomas Landsbek, CEO of SMATRICS EnBW: “We will need every plug we can get. Especially in larger cities or for frequent travellers, quick charging stops are indispensable.”
Lower and Upper Austria Lead the Way in Infrastructure Expansion
The provinces of Lower and Upper Austria have taken the lead in the expansion of charging infrastructure.
High-power charging (HPC) points in Lower Austria increased from 52 to 94, while Upper Austria saw growth from 28 to 68 HPC points.
Together, these two provinces now host approximately 40% of SMATRICS EnBW’s fast-charging infrastructure.
Demand for Speed and Transparent Pricing in EV Charging
SMATRICS EnBW continues to expand its fast-charging network with high-performance HPC points capable of up to 400 kilowatts.
These chargers can deliver enough power for up to 400 kilometres of driving in just 15 minutes.
While previous installations typically included at least four charging points per site, since 2024, the trend has shifted towards charging parks with a minimum of 12 points.
Last year, SMATRICS EnBW inaugurated several such parks, including those in St. Veit and Poggersdorf (Carinthia), St. Pölten (Lower Austria), and Vorchdorf (Upper Austria).
This year, additional parks are being established in Regau and Suben (Upper Austria), Spielberg (Styria), and Altlengbach (Lower Austria).
These charging parks are equipped with modern infrastructure, including canopies and, in some cases, solar panels.
From 2025, SMATRICS EnBW will also introduce transparent pricing displays at their charging parks, similar to signage at conventional fuel stations, showing the current ad-hoc price per kilowatt-hour.
This allows EV users to see a clear and understandable price breakdown before charging—just as they currently can via the app.
“This pricing transparency gives even inexperienced EV users a quick overview and reduces uncertainties,” said Hauke Hinrichs, COO of SMATRICS EnBW.
Seamlessly Integrated into Daily Life – Retail Remains a Key Partner
Landsbek highlights the importance of retail partnerships for e-mobility: “For the retail sector, integrating e-charging infrastructure into their services is a crucial step towards future-proofing their business. We are therefore continuing to expand our collaborations. Customers can conveniently combine charging and shopping.”
Currently, SMATRICS EnBW provides approximately 250 charging points at retail partner locations, with an additional 34 sites planned by the end of 2025.
The electricity used to operate the charging stations is 100% renewable, sourced from VERBUND.
