Kärnten Expands Electric Vehicle Infrastructure with Over 100 New Charging Points
Kärnten Charges Ahead: Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Expansion in Full Swing
While Kärnten ranked second-to-last among Austrian states in electric vehicle (EV) adoption last year, with EVs making up 14.1% of new car registrations, the region is making significant strides in building out its charging infrastructure. Across Austria, the push to support greener mobility is gaining momentum, with Kärnten playing a pivotal role in the nationwide effort.
Smatrics EnBW, a leading charging network operator, currently manages around 200 locations nationwide, offering more than 800 charging points. This year, the company plans to add 200 high-power chargers (HPC), capable of ultra-fast charging, to its network. In Kärnten and neighboring Styria, Smatrics aims to establish over five new sites, each equipped with at least four charging points. Additionally, partnerships with retail chains like Zgonc will see further charging points rolled out by 2026.
Meanwhile, Kelag, a regional energy provider, has teamed up with retailers Hofer and Spar to expand its EV charging network. The collaboration, set to conclude by the end of 2026, is part of a broader €20 million investment in charging infrastructure. By 2025, Kelag plans to install 120 new charging points in Kärnten, followed by an additional 100 annually until 2030. Currently, the company operates 339 charging points across Austria, with 82% located in Kärnten.
Despite slower-than-expected EV adoption rates, Kelag’s sales director, Alexander Jordan, remains optimistic. He points to stricter EU CO₂ emission standards, which will compel automakers to increase their EV offerings. Projections suggest that EV market share in Austria could rise from 4% today to 17% by 2030 and 70% by 2040.
“We’ll need every charging point we can get,” says Thomas Landsbek, CEO of Smatrics EnBW. “Especially in urban areas or for frequent drivers, fast charging stops are becoming essential.” Landsbek emphasizes the importance of ultra-fast chargers, which can provide up to 400 kilometers of range in just 15 minutes, as a game-changer for both consumers and businesses looking to future-proof their operations.
Austria currently ranks sixth in the EU for charging infrastructure density, with approximately 300 charging points per 100,000 residents. In Kärnten alone, there are 863 publicly accessible charging locations, featuring 1,772 individual charging points, according to the latest data from E-Control.
As the region accelerates its transition to electric mobility, the expansion of charging infrastructure is not just a necessity but a strategic move to meet growing demand and support a sustainable future. With ambitious plans and significant investments, Kärnten is positioning itself as a key player in Austria’s EV revolution.
Transition to sustainable transportation. The region’s commitment to expanding its EV charging network underscores its determination to overcome initial adoption challenges and position itself as a leader in Austria’s green mobility revolution. by investing in accessible, reliable, and future-proof charging solutions, Kärnten is not only addressing the needs of current EV drivers but also laying the groundwork for broader public acceptance and adoption of electric vehicles. As the infrastructure continues to grow, Kärnten is poised to transform its transportation landscape, reduce carbon emissions, and set an example for other regions to follow. The road ahead is electrifying, and Kärnten is charging ahead with purpose and vision.
An additional 80 by 2026, ensuring that EV drivers across the region have access to reliable and convenient charging options. These efforts underscore Kärnten’s commitment to fostering sustainable transportation and reducing its carbon footprint, aligning with Austria’s enterprising climate goals.
as Kärnten accelerates its EV infrastructure expansion, the region is poised to become a key player in Austria’s green mobility transition. By addressing the current gaps in charging accessibility and investing in cutting-edge technology, Kärnten is not only encouraging greater EV adoption but also setting a precedent for other regions to follow. With strategic partnerships, notable investments, and a clear vision for the future, Kärnten is charging ahead—literally and figuratively—toward a cleaner, more sustainable tomorrow. The road to widespread EV adoption may still have its challenges, but Kärnten’s proactive approach demonstrates that the journey is well underway.