What to know about RFID cards and EV charging

Sometimes referred to as ‘EV charge cards’, we share a quick introduction to one of the most important charging accessories

As electric vehicles (EVs) have continued to gain popularity, more and more drivers are switching from traditional fuel vehicles to EVs. If you're switching to an EV, you might be concerned about how you charge on the go, and be eager to understand if you can use a normal debit or credit card—or if you need a specific charging card. This is where RFID cards come in.

What is RFID?

RFID stands for radio frequency identification. It is a form of wireless communication that can be used to identify a unique object by leveraging the radio frequency range of the electromagnetic spectrum. RFID technology allows digital data encoded in an RFID card to be captured by a reader. This is similar to the technology used in bar codes, except RFID data can be read without needing an optical scanner.

What is an RFID card?

While RFID can have multiple applications, when it comes to EV charging, RFID cards are used to make it easy to pay for charging at charging points. An RFID card lets you start a charge at a public charging point by tapping your card against a reader. The card contains unique data that is transmitted to the charging station, allowing it to identify the user and initiate the charging process.

Do I need to use an RFID to charge my EV with bp pulse?

Whether or not you need an RFID card depends on your charging needs, and selected subscription type. When charging with bp pulse, you may receive a card if:

• You’re part of a fleet using bp’s Fuel & Charge Card

• You’re part of a business using bp pulse’s Workplace scheme

• You’re an individual using our on-the-go network, who has signed up for full membership via the bp pulse on-the-go app, to access discounted rates (vs. drivers using the on-the-go app without membership)

What is a Fuel & Charge Card?

For fleets, bp offers the Fuel & Charge Card—a single, convenient card, which connects your fleet to a network of thousands of bp and partner petrol stations across the UK, and features an RFID chip to provide access to EV charging via the bp pulse on-the-go network. This option is ideal for businesses that want the option to connect to charging networks and fuel stations while on the go.

What is the Workplace scheme?

Our Workplace scheme is an opportunity for businesses to manage a private network of charge points. Employers can set tariffs, monitor usage, and invite employees to join the scheme, all from one platform. Employees who are part of the scheme will receive a private RFID card, sent to an address of their choice, which will allow them to charge at work. Employees can also opt to add on membership to the wider bp pulse on-the-go network.

What is the bp pulse on-the-go network?

The bp on-the-go network is one of the UK’s largest EV charging networks—with more than 8,750 charging points, including over 3,200 rapid 50kW and ultra-fast 150kW charging points. Download the bp pulse app and sign up as a full member to access our best rates. You’ll be invited to select either a key fob or card to access charging, depending on your preference, which will be sent to an address of your choice. Once you receive your card, activate it by following the instructions provided to access charging on-the-go.

With bp pulse, depending on your subscription type, RFID cards can be a convenient and easy way to access EV charging—eliminating the need to carry cash or search for a credit card to pay for charging, to keep you journey ready.