When you encounter a charging station that's not compatible with your Mbrella Charge pass, you have several options to still charge your car. Here's what you can do:
Use a credit card: Many charging stations, especially newer and high-power chargers, are starting to accept direct credit card payments. This is becoming more common, particularly for fast DC chargers, and is mandatory for all newly installed high-speed chargers in the EU since April 2024.
Use the charging station's app or website: Some charging point operators (CPOs) have their own apps or web platforms that allow you to start and pay for a charging session without needing a specific charging pass.
QR code scanning: Some chargers allow you to start a session by scanning a QR code with your smartphone, which then directs you to a payment page.
A card from another provider: As a last resort, you might consider carrying a backup charging card from another provider for situations where Mbrella Charge isn't accepted.
Remember that while these alternatives exist, they may not always offer the same benefits or pricing as your Mbrella Charge pass. Also, using alternative methods might mean that the charging session won't be automatically tracked in your Mbrella Charge account, which could affect reimbursements. Indeed, based on your company policy, you might have to add a manual expense in your Mbrella profile to receive the correct reimbursement.
If you frequently encounter chargers that aren't compatible with Mbrella Charge, it's a good idea to inform the Mbrella Charge support team with the in-app chat. Your feedback can be valuable in this process.
Lastly, before embarking on a trip, especially a long one, it's advisable to plan your route and check the compatibility of charging stations along the way using the Mbrella Charge app. This can help you avoid situations where you need to use alternative charging methods.