Thinking of Renting an Electric Car in Iceland?

Good idea. Iceland is one of the easiest countries in the world to drive electric, with clean energy, great roads, and charging stations spreading faster than geysers erupt.

But there is a catch: once you leave Reykjavik and head toward waterfalls, glaciers, and black beaches, planning becomes essential.

This guide explains how Iceland’s EV charging network works, where to find chargers, which apps to use, and how much it really costs to stay charged on the road. For general tips on Renting a Car in Reykjavík and The Best Guide to Driving in Iceland , be sure to check our other guides.

Iceland’s EV Charging Network (2025 Overview)

Iceland is quickly moving away from petrol and diesel. Almost all electricity comes from renewable hydropower and geothermal energy, and by 2030 the country plans to end new fossil-fuel car sales entirely.

• Public chargers cover Reykjavik, Keflavik Airport, and every major town on the Ring Road (Route 1).
• More stations are appearing in smaller villages every month.
• ON Power and Ísorka remain the biggest networks.
• You will never be far from a plug if you plan your route properly.

Types of Charging Stations You Will Find

Standard Chargers (AC 7–22 kW)

• Found at hotels, guesthouses, and shopping centres.
• Ideal for overnight charging.
• Expect 4–8 hours for a full battery.

Fast Chargers (DC 50–150 kW)

• Perfect for road trips.
• Located at petrol stations, rest stops, and larger towns.
• Top up 60–80% in 30–60 minutes.

Ultra-Fast Chargers (DC 150–350 kW)

• Found near Reykjavik, Keflavik, and major highways.
• Charge most cars to 80% in around 25 minutes.
• Best for quick coffee breaks on long routes.

Tip: Always check your rental’s plug type. Most use CCS Type 2. Ask at pickup if you are unsure.

The Main Charging Networks in Iceland

ON Power

• The largest network in Iceland.
• Over 130 chargers nationwide.
• Download the ON app to locate and start charging instantly.
• Supports credit and debit card payment.

Ísorka

• Excellent coverage in Reykjavik and surrounding towns.
• Focused on fast and urban chargers.
• Use the Ísorka app for live updates and payment.

N1 Energy

• Stations often co-located with petrol forecourts.
• Great for mixed petrol and EV fleets.
• Fast chargers available on key highways.

Tesla Superchargers

• Currently expanding across the country.
• Found in towns like Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Höfn, Akureyri, and Egilsstaðir.
• Open to Tesla drivers and select CCS-compatible EVs.

Apps You Will Actually Use

Charging in Iceland runs on apps, not luck. Download these before your trip.

Tip: Keep two apps installed for redundancy. Coverage in rural Iceland can be patchy.

Where to Charge on Popular Routes

Golden Circle (300 km loop)

• Plenty of chargers in Selfoss and Laugarvatn.
• Most EVs can complete the full loop on one charge.

If you need a more detailed itinerary, check out our guide on How to Drive the Golden Circle .

South Coast (Reykjavik to Vík to Höfn)

• Fast chargers in Selfoss, Hvolsvöllur, Vík, and Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
• Ideal for topping up during sightseeing stops at Seljalandsfoss or Skógafoss.

Ring Road (Route 1, 1,322 km)

• Fast chargers in major towns like Akureyri, Egilsstaðir, and Höfn.
• The eastern stretch has fewer chargers, so plan ahead.

For shorter trips, see our list of Top Day Trips from Reykjavik .

Reykjanes Peninsula

• Well covered with stations in Grindavík, Keflavik, and Reykjanesbær.
• Great day trip from Reykjavik with EV-friendly cafes and stops.

See our guide to the Best Things to Do on the Reykjanes Peninsula .

Note: Avoid F-roads and Highlands with electric cars because there are no chargers in those areas. Learn more about these restricted routes in Our Guide to F Roads in Iceland .

Step by Step: How to Charge an EV in Iceland

1. Open your chosen app, such as ON, Ísorka, or PlugShare.
2. Locate a nearby charger and check availability.
3. Park correctly so you do not block other vehicles.
4. Match your plug type, usually CCS or Type 2.
5. Plug in and start the session via the app or charger screen.
6. Wait comfortably and grab a snack or stretch your legs.
7. End the session, unplug, and move your car promptly.

Bonus tip: Some stations add a parking fee after 4 hours, so do not nap through your session.

Charging Costs in Iceland

EV charging is still cheaper than petrol or diesel. Here is what to expect as of late 2025.

Charging a mid-size EV like a Kia EV6 from 10% to 80% usually costs around 3,000 ISK, which is about 22 USD. That is less than half the price of petrol for the same distance.

Compare: see current petrol prices on our Fuel Prices Guide .

How Far Can You Drive on One Charge?

Most modern EVs in Iceland go 300 to 500 km per full charge, but factors like weather and driving style matter.

Things that reduce range

• Cold temperatures can drop range by 20 to 30 percent. If you are planning a trip during the colder months, read What is Iceland really like in Winter? and review Our Guide to Driving in the Snow .
• Strong headwinds.
• Heavy loads or roof boxes.
• Aggressive acceleration.

How to extend your range

• Use Eco Mode.
• Preheat the car while plugged in.
• Drive at moderate speeds.
• Use regenerative braking whenever possible.

Why Going Electric in Iceland Makes Sense

• Cheaper running costs. Electricity is roughly one third the cost of petrol.
• Sustainability. The grid is powered by renewable energy.
• Quiet driving. Ideal for Iceland’s scenic routes and wildlife-rich areas.
• City perks. Many Reykjavik hotels now offer free or discounted charging.

If you are staying mainly in the southwest or around the Golden Circle, electric cars are the smart and sustainable choice.

Final Tips Before You Hit the Road

• Ask the rental desk to confirm your plug type and give you a quick demo.
• Download ON Power, Ísorka, and PlugShare before leaving the airport.
• Plan at least one backup charger per day.
• Always start your morning with a full battery.
• Always be aware of local rules and regulations.

Consult our guide on Driving Laws In Iceland before your journey.

Drive Smart, Drive Electric

Exploring Iceland in an EV is more than a travel choice. It is a way to see the island responsibly and efficiently. From Keflavik Airport to Vík and beyond, clean energy powers your entire journey.