How to charge

New to EV charging? We’ve got you.

Starting your EV journey is easier than you might think. This simple guide explains how to charge your electric vehicle with bp charge, so you can plug in with confidence.

In this guide, you’ll learn about:

• Setting up your bp charge account.
• Starting your first charge.
• Different ways to charge with bp.
• What charging speeds mean, and what can affect them.

Setting up your bp charge account

Before you start charging, you’ll need a bp charge account.

1. Download the bp charge app from the App Store or Google Play.

2. Create an account and add a payment method.

3. Make sure notifications are turned on in Account settings, so you can track your charging session.

Once you’re set up, you’re ready to charge.

Your first charge with bp charge

Charging your EV with bp charge is simple
 

Find chargers available near you in the bp charge app or via your preferred maps provider.

1. Plug in your car
Use the correct connector for your vehicle (CCS2 or CHAdeMO).

2. Find your charging station in the app
To start your charging session, you can:

• Select your charger directly on the map, or
• Tap Charge and enter the Station ID shown on the charger.

If location services are enabled, the app may automatically show the station you’re at.

3. Select your plug and start charging
Choose your connector in the app and tap Begin charging.

4. Stay updated 
You’ll receive notifications on your charging progress if notifications are enabled.

5. End your charge
Stop the session in the app or press the Stop charge button on the charger. Your receipt is saved in the app.

That’s it - you’re good to go.

Charging speeds can vary by location and charger type. You can learn more about charging speeds below.                     

Understanding charging speeds

Charging speeds can vary by location
 

How fast you can charge depends on:

• Your vehicle’s make and model.
• The maximum output of the charger.
• Whether power is shared between two vehicles.
• External factors such as temperature.

Charging speed will also slow as your battery fills. This is normal and helps protect battery health.

Different ways to charge with bp

Choose the option that fits your routine best.
 

bp charge app

Use the app to find chargers, start and stop sessions, and track your charging. Save your favourite chargers for quicker access next time.

bp charge RFID card

Tap your bp charge RFID card at the charger to start your session quickly and easily. This is not a payment card - the charge will be billed to your saved payment method in the app.

Order your RFID card in the app (Account > Key fob > Order). It gives you tap-and-go access, even in areas with limited mobile reception.

bp plus card

You can use an EV enabled bp plus card to start a charging session at any bp charge station.

If you’re a business interested in EV charging, you can apply for a bp plus card here.

Subscriptions

If available, subscriptions can offer discounted charging rates for frequent use.

You can view and manage available subscription plans in the bp charge app (Account > Subscriptions).

Good to know

• Charging speeds can change during a session. This is expected and varies by vehicle and charger.
• EVs follow a natural ‘charging curve’, where charging slows as the battery approaches full.
• You don’t need to charge to 100% every time - charging to around 80% is often enough for everyday driving.

As you get familiar with EV charging, you’ll quickly see how it fits into your existing routine.

Find available EV chargers across New Zealand with the bp charge app

Contact Us

Need help using one of our charging points? We’re here 24/7 for anything you need.

bp charge support: 0800 002788

bp charge email: evdriversupportNZ@bp.com