Open-loop payments arrive in Germany with SMART/LAB and Switchio

Imagine pulling up to an electric vehicle (EV) charging station and paying for your charge with a simple tap of your bank card—no apps, no registrations, just hassle-free convenience. Thanks to an exciting partnership between smartlab Innovationsgesellschaft mbH and Switchio by Monet+, this seamless charging experience is now a reality in Germany.

What is open-loop payment, and why does it matter?

Open-loop payment systems allow EV drivers to pay for charging using any EMV bank card, providing a universal, app-free, account-free solution. This straightforward approach ensures that charging your EV is as easy as tapping your card. Beyond convenience, open-loop payments are quickly becoming a necessity.

The Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) mandates that all newly deployed public EV chargers in the EU with a capacity of 50 kW or more must support open-loop payments by April 2024.

Open-loop payments are about removing barriers and creating a charging experience that works for everyone,

said Ales Popelka, Director of the Mobility Division at Monet+

With this partnership, we’re delivering not just convenience but also compliance with the standards shaping the future of e-mobility.

First stop in Sulzemoos, Bavaria

What’s next?

With over 150 Ingenico SELF 2000 terminals currently being deployed, SMART/LAB and Switchio are actively working towards expanding this technology to 20,000 EV charging points across Germany and beyond. Their ultimate vision is to create a smarter, more connected charging network. The Sulzemoos project demonstrates how technology can enhance the driver experience while helping operators future-proof their systems. It’s a win-win for everyone.