Daily EV news · France · 5 February 2026
EV Charging
European cities shift to ultra-fast charging hubs as AFIR compliance drives 150 kW plus rollout in 2026
Europe's public charging network has surpassed one million points in 2026, with the industry now prioritising operational maturity and AFIR compliance over coverage alone. The regulation mandates ultra-fast charging stations delivering at least 150 kW per point every 60 km on major corridors, prompting dense capitals including Berlin, Madrid, Paris and Vienna to deploy multi-point hubs in urban areas previously served by slow AC chargers. The shift raises challenges around grid connection, energy supply and site security in space-constrained city centres.
Why it matters
Procurement teams and CPOs face new technical and logistical demands as AFIR compliance pushes urban deployments beyond 150 kW, requiring stronger grid connections and larger footprints. The move from coverage to high-power hub models reshapes site selection, capex planning and operational risk in Europe's most competitive metro markets.