Charging an Electric Car in Iceland

Iceland runs almost entirely on renewable energy, which makes it a great country to explore in an electric car. Here's what you need to know about charging during your SIXT rental.

Charge level at pick-up and return

Our electric cars are handed over with at least 80% charge.
When you return the car, it counts as full if the battery is at 80% or more.
If the car is returned with less charge, charging costs may apply according to your rental agreement.

Your first charge – step by step

Download the apps before you set off – at least the ON, N1 and e1 apps (links below) – and add a payment card in each. It only takes a few minutes and saves you trouble at a charger with poor mobile coverage.
Find a charger in the operator's app or in PlugShare. The apps show whether a charger is free, in use or out of order.
Plug in. Fast chargers (DC) have their own cable – use the CCS plug. For slower AC chargers you often need the car's own Type 2 cable – check the trunk.
Start the charge – usually by scanning the QR code on the charger or selecting the charger in the app. At Orkan stations you can simply tap your card.
Stop at around 80% and move the car. Charging slows down a lot above 80%, other drivers may be waiting, and some operators charge an idle fee if the car stays connected after charging.

Charging networks and apps

Iceland has several charging networks, and each one has its own app and prices. Having two or three of the apps below gives you access to most fast chargers in the country.

ON (Orka náttúrunnar)

One of the largest networks, with around 50 fast chargers at the main stops along the Ring Road and in towns.
Start and pay in the ON app: scan the QR code by the plug and pay with a card. You don't need an Icelandic account – the app gives you temporary access, and an amount is reserved on your card for each charge (ISK 6,000 for fast charging).
Download: App Store · Google Play · on.is

N1

Fast chargers at many N1 service stations around the country, for example in Borgarnes, Hvolsvöllur, Vík, Egilsstaðir, Sauðárkrókur and Ísafjörður – usually with a restroom, coffee and food while you wait.
Find, start and pay in the N1 app (“N1 – Alla leið”). Payment is made in the app with a card – not at the counter.
Download: App Store · Google Play · n1.is

Orkan

Powerful fast chargers (300–500 kW) at Orkan stations.
The easiest option for visitors: pay directly at the charger with a credit or debit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay – no app needed.
More information: orkan.is

e1 (eONE)

One app for chargers from many operators, including Orkusalan, Bílorka (Brimborg), Orkubú Vestfjarða, HS Orka and Atlantsolía – useful in the Westfjords and other areas with fewer chargers.
Find, start and pay in the e1 app (“eONE – EV charging”).
Download: App Store · Google Play · e1.is

Ísorka

Many charging points in and around towns, at hotels and in parking lots – handy for charging overnight or while you are sightseeing.
Find, start and pay in the Ísorka app.
Download: App Store · Google Play (search for “Ísorka”) · isorka.is

Tesla Superchargers

Open to Tesla cars and to many other electric cars with a CCS plug – charging is started and paid in the Tesla app.
See How to create a Tesla account for Supercharging.

How to pay

Charging is paid directly to the charging operator – in the operator's app or, at Orkan, with your card at the charger. Prices differ between networks and are shown in each app before you start. Charging costs are not part of your SIXT rental.

Charging speed

Fast charging (DC): usually 20–40 minutes from about 20% to 80%, depending on the car, the charger and the temperature.
Slow charging (AC): several hours – best overnight at your hotel or while you are out sightseeing.
Older CHAdeMO plugs found at some stations don't fit most newer cars – look for CCS.

Useful apps for planning

PlugShare – a map of charging stations from all networks, with user reports on chargers that are out of order.
A Better Routeplanner (ABRP) – plans charging stops for your route.

Tips for driving electric in Iceland

Plan your charging stops, especially in East Iceland, the Westfjords and other remote areas, where chargers are further apart.
Expect less range in cold weather – in winter the range can drop noticeably, and charging can be slower when the battery is cold. Navigating to the charger in the car's own navigation system warms up the battery on the way, if your car supports it.
Don't wait until the battery is almost empty – a charger may be busy or out of order.
There are very few chargers in the highlands – plan carefully before heading inland.

Questions about your electric car? Contact us at cs@sixt.is.