Guide to Electric Car Charging Stations for Car Rentals in Iceland

By Johanna Sigurðardóttir Verified Expert

Renting an electric car in Iceland sounds great, right? No gas stations, just clean energy. But let's be real: electric car charging stations in Iceland are easy to find in Reykjavík and along major routes, but once you head into the wild, it gets tricky.

Charging takes planning unless you enjoy the thrill of a near-dead battery. Where do you charge? Which apps actually work? How much will it cost (and will it ruin your budget)? This guide answers it all so you are never stuck in the middle of nowhere, wondering if you should start pushing.

Understanding Iceland's EV Charging Infrastructure

Iceland is not messing around when it comes to electric cars. The country is pushing hard to ditch gas and diesel vehicles, aiming to ban new registrations by 2030. That means EV charging stations in Iceland are popping up everywhere.

As of 2025, Iceland EV charging network is already solid and getting bigger by the day. InstaVolt alone plans to add 300 more chargers in the next two years. With nearly all electricity coming from renewables, Iceland is leading the charge in sustainable transport. If you are renting an EV here, staying powered up will only get easier.

Types of Charging Stations Available

You will be pleasantly surprised by the range of electric vehicle charging options in Iceland. Not to brag, but we literally have it all... Here's a closer look at the types of electric car charging stations in Iceland.

Standard Charging Stations

These are your go-to for overnight charging. They deliver 7–22 kW of power, which means patience is required. If you are planning to park for a while, they do the job. You will find them at:

• Hotels
• Guesthouses
• Shopping centers
• Tourist spots

Fast-Charging Stations

Need a quicker boost? There are over 180 fast charging stations in Iceland, and they are built for road trips.

• Power output: Up to 250 kW
• Charging time: Under 30 minutes for a solid charge
• Where to find them: Highway rest stops and key locations along major routes

Tesla Charging Stations

Those of you who are renting this brand and are looking for Tesla charging stations in Iceland are covered completely here. The Tesla Supercharger network in Iceland is growing fast, making long-distance drives easier.

• First Supercharger station: Opened in December 2019
• Current network: Seven locations as of 2022
• Future expansion: Tesla is teaming up with N1 gas stations to add even more Superchargers

Major Charging Networks and Providers

Knowing where to charge is just as important. Luckily, Iceland's EV charging network is solid, with several major players making sure you are never too far from a plug. Here is a breakdown of the best charging stations in Iceland and who runs them.

ON Power

ON Power is serious about growing Iceland's charging network.

• Charging ports: 136 public chargers across 28 locations in Reykjavík
• Expansion plans: 84 more charging ports coming soon
• Focus: Commercial and public charging solutions

Ísorka

Ísorka has made a name for itself as one of Iceland's biggest EV charging providers.

• Charging stations: 3,000 across Iceland
• Users: Powers over 10,000 cars every week
• Specialty: Home, workplace, and business charging solutions

Charge and Drive

Fortum Charge & Drive connects Iceland to a massive Nordic charging network.

• Charging points: 38,000 across the region
• Partnerships: Works with Recharge, Kople, IONITY, and more
• Tech perks: A mobile app for easy access to multiple networks

Locating Charging Stations Across Iceland

It should be obvious, but let's say it anyway. If you are planning an Electric car road trip in Iceland, you will need an Iceland EV charging map and mobile data.

Otherwise, you are just hoping for the best, and that is not a great strategy. Iceland charging station locations are well spread out in populated areas, but once you leave Reykjavík, planning becomes essential. The last thing you want is to roll into a tiny village on hope, praying there is a charger. 

Checking real-time availability before you head out saves stress and keeps your trip running smoothly.

Top Apps for Finding Charging Stations in Iceland

Several apps make finding electric car charging stations in Iceland easy. Use them. Trust them. Do not think you will just 'figure it out' on the road.

PlugShare

PlugShare is the go-to app for EV drivers in Iceland.

ring road

• Why it is great: It shows every charging station in Iceland on a map.
• Filters: Find chargers by plug type, speed, and provider.
• Bonus feature: User reviews let you know if a charger is actually working.
• Availability: Works on iOS and Android.

EV chargers map in Iceland:

ON App

If you are using ON Power chargers, this app is a must.

• Coverage: Maps out ON Power's entire charging network.
• Live updates: See if a charger is in use before driving there.
• Easy access: Scan a QR code to start charging. No extra apps or accounts needed.

Using Google Maps to Locate EV Charging Stations in Iceland

Google Maps is no longer just for finding restaurants and gas stations. It is also an awesome tool for tracking down EV chargers.

• Quick search: Just type 'EV charging stations' into Google Maps Iceland, and it will pull up nearby options.
• Filters that matter: Narrow results by plug type, charging speed, and availability so you do not waste time driving to a charger that will not work for your car.
• Real-world insights: User reviews and photos help you avoid stations that are broken, blocked, or just plain confusing to find.

Other apps that are worth the time and effort to download are Ísorka, which was actually the first in Iceland to provide live updates on charging stations, and ABRP (A Better Routeplanner), a smart tool for planning your route with charging stops in mind.

Charging Station Availability Along Popular Routes

Some areas where you will find electric car charging stations in Iceland are still a bit… let's just say sparse. Planning ahead is the difference between a smooth trip and an unplanned camping experience in the middle of nowhere. Here is where you can charge up on our country's most popular routes.

Ring Road (Route 1) – 1,322 km (821 mi)

The Ring Road is the ultimate electric car road trip to Iceland, taking you around the entire country. It has the best charging coverage outside of Reykjavík, but do not expect a station every few miles.

• Fast chargers: Located in bigger towns like Akureyri, Höfn, and Egilsstaðir. If you need a boost, these will get you back on the road quickly.
• Tesla Superchargers: You will find them in Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Höfn, Egilsstaðir, Akureyri, and Staðarskáli. If you are driving a Tesla, you are in luck.
• Other charging points: They exist, but some are few and far between. Do yourself a favor and check ahead unless you enjoy testing the limits of your battery.

Golden Circle – 300 km (186 mi)

The Golden Circle is a short route packed with tourists and, fortunately, full of chargers. If you start with a full battery, you might not even need to charge. Unless, of course, you are the type who detours for every cool rock formation.

• Fast chargers: Available in Laugarvatn and Selfoss. Enough to keep you moving without much hassle.
• Minimal charging stops needed: Most EVs can handle this loop in one go. Just do not take the scenic route to every single side attraction unless you plan for an extra charge.

South Coast – 400 km (249 mi) one way

This drive is stunning, but it stretches farther than most people expect. Charging stations are well-placed but do not assume they are around every corner.

• Fast chargers: Available in towns like Vík and Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Plan your stops accordingly because the next one is not always close.
• Charging near major sights: You will find stations near Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Reynisfjara Beach. Perfect for topping up while snapping a few photos.
• Extra charging points: Some are scattered along the way, but if you are heading off the main roads, double-check your options unless you are in the mood for a long walk.

How to Charge an Electric Car in Iceland

New to EVs? Not sure how charging electric cars in Iceland works? Relax, it is not rocket science. If you can plug in a phone, you can charge an electric car. Here is how to do it without looking like clueless.

Step-by-Step Guide to Charging at Different Stations

1. Find a charging station. Use apps like PlugShare, ON, or Ísorka to locate one nearby.
2. Park in the designated EV spot. Not in front of it. Not blocking someone else. In the actual space.
3. Check the plug type. Most stations use Type 2, CCS, or CHAdeMO, so make sure it matches your car.
4. Pick your speed. If using a fast charger, choose how quickly you want to juice up.
5. Plug in. Connect the charging cable to your car and the station.
6. Start the session. Use the station's screen or app to initiate charging.
7. Wait. Scroll your phone, grab a coffee, or enjoy the view while your car powers up.
8. Unplug when done. Disconnect the cable and return it to the station. No one likes a charger hog.

Payment Methods and Accessing Charging Points

Unlike gas stations, you cannot just pull up, swipe a card, and be on your way. Most chargers require authentication before they start working. Here is how to pay:

• Mobile apps: Ísorka and Plugsurfing let you find stations and pay easily.
• RFID cards: Some providers offer these for quick authentication.
• Credit/debit cards: Many stations now accept direct card payments, but do not assume all do.

To make life easier:

• Download Ísorka or Plugsurfing before your trip.
• Set up an account and add a payment method.
• Use the app to locate chargers and start charging sessions.

Understanding Charging Times and Costs

Let's talk money. EV charging costs in Iceland depend on speed, charger type, and your car's battery size. Here is what to expect:

Standard (AC) Chargers – 7 to 22 kW

• Charging time: 6 to 8 hours for a full charge.
• Cost: Around 25 ISK/kWh (0.18 USD/kWh).

Fast (DC) Chargers – 50 kW

• Charging time: 30 to 60 minutes for a solid charge.
• Cost: About 50 ISK/kWh (0.36 USD/kWh).

Ultra-Fast (DC) Chargers – 225 kW

• Charging time: Under 30 minutes for a significant charge.
• Cost: Roughly 65 ISK/kWh (0.47 USD/kWh).

Here's a handy table comparing EV charging prices across the leading brands in Iceland:

Real-World Example

Charging a Tesla Model Y (75 kWh battery) from empty to full using a 50 kW fast charger would cost around 3,750 ISK (27 USD). That is way cheaper than filling up a gas-guzzling rental.

Avoid Extra Fees

Some stations charge a parking fee of 300 ISK (2.20 USD) per hour after 4 hours to keep spots open. If you forget to unplug, your 'quick charge' could turn into an expensive nap. Save yourself the hassle and move your car when it is done.

Planning Your Trip With an Electric Car

A little planning goes a long way in making sure you do not end up stranded in the middle of nowhere, questioning your life choices. Here is how to charge your electric car efficiently while making the most of your road trip.

Estimating Driving Ranges and Planning Charging Stops

Most EVs can go anywhere from150 to 500 km (93 to 310 mi) on a full charge. That range depends on the car, the weather, and how heavy your foot is on the accelerator.

What Affects Your Range?

• Driving Style: If you drive like you are in a race, expect your range to drop fast. Smooth acceleration and steady speeds help stretch your battery life.
• Vehicle Load: More weight = more energy use. If you have a fully packed vehicle in Iceland, keep in mind that extra luggage and passengers will drain your battery quicker.
• Weather Conditions: Cold weather can slash your range by 15 to 30% because the battery works harder, and heating the cabin takes extra energy.

How to Plan Your Route Like a Pro

• Find Charging Stations: Use PlugShare or the ON app to map out where you can stop.
• Plan Charging Stops: Fast chargers are usually available every 100 km (62 mi) on major routes like the Ring Road but there aren’t any at Iceland’s F-Roads or mountain roads.
• Leave Some Wiggle Room: Always have a buffer in case of unexpected detours, bad weather, or extra sightseeing stops.

Tips for Efficient Energy Consumption

Want to make the most out of every charge? Keep these tricks in mind:

• Use Eco Mode: Most EVs have an Eco mode that limits acceleration and adjusts climate control to save battery.
• Take Advantage of Regenerative Braking: Instead of wasting energy, this feature helps recharge the battery whenever you slow down.
• Keep Your Speed in Check: Staying under 90 km/h (56 mph) improves efficiency. The faster you go, the harder your car works.
• Be Smart About Climate Control: Running the heater or AC nonstop eats up battery power. Pre-condition your car while it is still plugged in to stay comfortable without draining energy on the road.

Weather Considerations and Battery Life

Iceland's unpredictable weather is not just a challenge for road conditions. It also impacts your battery life.

• Cold Weather: Batteries struggle in freezing temperatures, reducing range and increasing charging times. Running the heater can cut the range by up to 40%.
• Hot Weather: Air conditioning drains power, too, but not as dramatically. Depending on the temperature, it can reduce the range by 5 to 31%.
• Wind Resistance: Headwinds increase energy consumption, while tailwinds can give you a little extra range. Not much you can do about the wind, but at least be aware of it.

Advantages of Renting an Electric Car in Iceland

Renting a car in Iceland is a must if you want to see the country properly. But renting an electric car? Even better. Not only do you get to cruise around with zero guilt about emissions, but you also save money and get access to charging stations in places you would not expect. Here is why going electric is a smart move.

Environmental Benefits 

We're not trying to make you jealous, but almost 85% of Iceland runs almost entirely on renewable energy. That means when you charge an EV here, you are tapping into clean geothermal and hydroelectric power and not burning fossil fuels (we bet you must be jealous). 

Unlike gas-powered cars, EVs do not spew out pollution, so you can drive through Iceland's pristine landscapes without adding to the mess. Plus, let's be honest. It just feels good to drive past a gas station knowing you are not dropping a fortune on fuel.

Cost Savings on Fuel (Gas Prices in Iceland Are No Joke)

Filling up a gas-powered rental can make your wallet cry. With fuel prices in Iceland hovering around 300 ISK ($2.20 USD) per liter, long road trips can get pricey fast. Meanwhile, charging an electric car costs a fraction of that.

• Example: Charging a Tesla Model Y (75 kWh battery) at a fast charger costs about 3,750 ISK ($27 USD) for a full charge.
• Comparison: A gas-powered car would cost significantly more to cover the same distance. If you are driving the Ring Road (1,332 km or 828 mi), that price gap adds up quickly.

Access to Remote Areas 

Worried about running out of steam in the middle of nowhere? Since Iceland's charging network is expanding so fast, major providers like ON Power and N1 are placing chargers along popular routes and in smaller towns. Even some remote areas now have charging points, so you can explore without constantly stressing over battery life.

And if you really want to go off the beaten path, some rental companies provide portable chargers that let you plug into a standard outlet. Sure, charging this way takes longer, but it beats waiting for a tow truck because you miscalculated your range.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there free EV charging stations in Iceland?

Yes, but do not get too excited. Some hotels, guesthouses, and public locations offer free charging, but most fast chargers will still cost you. Always check before plugging in.

Are there a lot of charging stations in Iceland?

For Reykjavík and major routes, yes. For the middle of nowhere, not so much. Iceland's network is growing fast, but planning your charging stops is still a smart move.

Is a Tesla Supercharger free in Iceland?

Nope. Tesla Superchargers in Iceland are not free. You will need a payment method linked to your Tesla account, just like in most other countries.

Is EV charging free at supermarkets?

Some supermarkets offer free charging but do not count on it everywhere. It is more of a bonus than a guarantee, and you might have to make a purchase.

Are electric cars popular in Iceland?

Yes, Iceland loves EVs. With cheap renewable energy and gas prices that are through the roof, it makes sense. You will see plenty of Teslas, Nissan Leafs, and other EVs on the road.

There are Way More Electric Car Charging Stations in Iceland than You Think

Worried about charging? No need. Electric car charging stations in Iceland are easier to find than you might expect. With the right apps and a little planning, your road trip will be smooth sailing. If you ever feel lost, stuck, or just want some extra tips, reach out to us.

Our team is eagerly waiting to help with just about anything you need. Charging advice, road trip hacks, or even where to grab the best Icelandic hot dog. Whatever it is, we have got your back. Just ask, and we will sort you out.