The network of charging stations in Brazil has grown and made trips less risky, but the driver needs to have some apps to find them
Electric cars are an excellent alternative for those who drive only in the city, especially if they can charge at home. But there are still concerns about recharging on highways.
The situation today is much better than five years ago. The number of public charging stations for electric cars has grown. The most recent data, from February 2026, points to 21,061 chargers, 6,479 of which are of the fast type with direct current.
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New real estate developments, restaurants, shopping malls, supermarkets, gas stations and roadside stops are using chargers as attractions. But how does a first-time electric or hybrid car owner go about finding them?
Fortunately, these charging stations are mapped in several applications. What helps the most when looking is the Plug Share, which is the most popular of its kind in Brazil.
It is used to find electric car chargers and to set up travel routes. Users can rate and comment on the charging station. However, Plug Share does not show if it is busy or can be used to pay for the recharge.
Porters who are paid require a dedicated app to be used or it is necessary to check the rules with the management of the establishment. One of the most popular is Tupi, which is a partner of Shell Recharge, BYD, Renault, Sem Parar and Zarp Localiza.
In this application, the user can see if the recharge point is occupied, the percentage of the load and make payments. It also helps to plan trips when there are electric stations on the way.
The EasyVolt, NeoCharge and Volvo networks have similar applications. Each company has its own network of chargers, so we recommend using plug share to plan and see which applications will be needed to pay for recharges.
Volvo was the first car brand to set up corridors with fast chargers on highways. The project started in the Southeast region and expanded.
Those who own a Volvo car can recharge for free at these stations, while those who have a car of another brand will have to pay. Similar initiatives appeared later, but using the networks already installed to give the benefit. BYD, for example, offered a discount for those who use the Shell Recharge network.
When planning a trip, it is necessary to pay attention to the type of charger you choose to stop. In order not to waste time, the ideal is to use a fast type, with direct current (DC).
The vast majority of electric cars available in Brazil give a fast charge of 20% to 80% in less than 45 minutes with this type of charger. With this you regain the autonomy to continue your journey without standing still for too long.
On a slow charger, alternating current (AC), recharging will take time. This type is more suitable for that stop to sleep in a hotel or inn, with the vehicle plugged in overnight.
We also recommend looking at the location of the charging station. It can be an establishment, such as a solar panel store, workshop or dealership within the city. There is a risk that it will not be available outside of business hours. The safest thing is to plan with stops on the road, such as gas stations and restaurants.
The specter of the “dry breakdown” with the electric car is getting further and further away. But you still need to have a plan A and a plan B before leaving home.
