Payment terminals for EV charging made simple

A payment terminal is a physical device that facilitates the payment process. It is equipped with the necessary technology to accept and process cashless payments from EV drivers securely. The payment terminal typically includes a user interface consisting of a touchscreen or physical buttons, allowing customers to interact with the device. It supports various payment methods, such as credit cards, mobile payments, contactless cards, and other digital wallets.

Unattended payments involve automated systems, such as payment terminals or mobile applications, where users can initiate and complete EV charging transactions.

Cashless payments eliminate the need for physical currency and rely on digital payment methods. This includes credit or debit cards, mobile wallets, contactless payments, or other electronic payment solutions.

Direct EV charging payments allow EV drivers to pay directly at the charging station using a payment terminal. On the payment terminal, EV drivers can select the payment method they prefer, such as a credit or debit card, a mobile app, or tapping a contactless card. The payment terminal securely processes the transaction, verifying the payment details and authorizing the payment amount. At the end of the charging session, the payment terminal may provide a receipt or a transaction summary.

The process begins with the customer presenting their card to the payment terminal, which pre-authorizes an amount to start the session. The payment terminal then reads and verifies the card data, including its expiry date, card number, and cardholder name. The verified card details are sent to the payment gateway via a secure and encrypted network. The payment processor authenticates the payment details by cross-checking them with the issuing bank’s database.

Once authenticated, the payment processor requests a transaction from the cardholder’s bank to debit the payment amount. The acquiring bank verifies and approves the transaction, sending a response back to the payment processor. The response is then transmitted to the payment gateway, which processes the data and confirms the payment to the payment terminal. Finally, the payment terminal provides a receipt for the customer to sign or displays a QR code as confirmation of the payment transaction.

Yes, it is possible to use a single payment terminal for multiple charge points. This centralized payment system streamlines the user experience, simplifies the management of payments and reduces costs for chargе point operators as it eliminates the need for individual payment terminals for each charge point.

Carefully evaluating the following factors helps you choose a payment terminal that aligns with your specific requirements and objectives:

– Evaluate the compatibility of the payment terminals with your existing charging infrastructure and software to ensure smooth integration and communication to minimize technical issues and disruptions. 
– Assess the cost and pricing models associated with the payment terminal as it directly impacts the financial aspects of your business. 
– Gauge the time required for setup and going live, ensuring minimal disruptions and swift implementation. 
– Examine the geographical coverage of the PSP and acquirer to ensure support in your target markets.
– Review the approach to security, as the payment terminal must adhere to industry standards and implement robust security measures, safeguarding sensitive payment information
– Consider payment terminals with intuitive interfaces that provide clear instructions and ease of use for your EV drivers. 
– Determine the reliability of the connectivity to facilitate real-time communication with the CPMS and enable swift payment authorisation.

To start accepting direct payment on your charge points, you will need three key components: a payment terminal, a payment service provider (PSP), and an acquiring bank. The payment terminal is a physical device that enables customers to make payments for charging services. The PSP serves as the intermediary between your charging system and the customer’s payment method, securely processing the transaction. Lastly, an acquiring bank is required to facilitate the transfer of funds from the customer’s account to your business account.

Some market players may combine multiple roles or even encompass all roles, providing comprehensive payment solutions for EV charging operators.

Yes, you can manage your payment terminal from your charge point management system (CPMS). The payment terminal establishes direct communication with the CPMS, enabling it to receive information about tariffs, pre-authorization amounts, initiate charging sessions, collect payments from EV drivers, and notify the CPMS about successful payment processing.

EV drivers can initiate ad hoc charging by presenting their cards to the payment terminal. However, ad hoc EV charging is possible without a payment terminal if alternative payment methods are available. For example, certain charging stations or networks may offer mobile payment options through mobile apps or RFID cards. These methods allow EV drivers to initiate and pay for charging sessions directly through their mobile devices or RFID cards, bypassing the need for a payment terminal.