Exploring the majestic Lofoten Islands behind the wheel of an electric vehicle: what a beautiful way to combine adventure and respect for the environment! 🚗⚡ If you’re a Curious Soul like us, you’re probably wondering how to organize your electric road trip in this Arctic archipelago with breathtaking landscapes.
Good news: Norway is a paradise for electric mobility, and even in remote regions like Lofoten, the charging infrastructure has developed considerably in recent years. Let’s discover together everything you need to know to confidently plan your electric vehicle journey in this jewel of the Far North.
- Charging Infrastructure in Lofoten: Status in 2025 🔌
- Geographical Distribution of Charging Stations ⚡🗺️
- Planning your EV trip to Lofoten: Practical tips 📱🗓️
- The EV experience in Lofoten: Testimony and practical advice 🌊💡
- Sustainability and environmental impact: Going green in the Far North 🌱❄️
- Conclusion: The Electric Adventure awaits you in Lofoten! 🚗⚡🏔️
- FAQ: Your questions about charging in Lofoten
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Charging Infrastructure in Lofoten: Status in 2025 🔌
La Norvège s’est fixé un objectif ambitieux : que toutes les nouvelles voitures vendues soient zéro émission d’ici 2025. Cet engagement national se reflète jusque dans les coins les plus reculés du pays, y compris aux îles Lofoten.
En mars 2025, l’archipel compte plus de 30 stations de recharge avec plus de 80 points de connexion au total, dont une quarantaine de points de recharge rapide (50 kW ou plus). Cette infrastructure a connu une croissance impressionnante depuis 2023, où l’on comptait seulement 27 points de recharge rapide, principalement à Svolvær et Leknes.
Types de bornes et connecteurs disponibles
Norway has set an ambitious goal: for all new cars sold to be zero-emission by 2025. This national commitment is reflected even in the most remote corners of the country, including the Lofoten Islands.
As of March 2025, the archipelago has about 30 charging stations with more than 80 connection points in total, including about forty fast charging points (50 kW or more). This infrastructure has seen impressive growth since 2023, when there were only 27 fast charging points, mainly in Svolvær and Leknes.
Types of charging stations and available connectors
Before you hit the winding roads of Lofoten, it’s essential to understand the different types of charging available:
- Fast charging (DC): From 50 kW to 360 kW, ideal for charging during a short break (20-40 minutes)
- Standard charging (AC): Generally from 7.4 kW to 22 kW, perfect for overnight charging at your accommodation
As for connector types, you’ll mainly find:
- CCS (Combined Charging System): The European standard, compatible with most EVs
- CHAdeMO: Used by some Japanese models (Nissan, Mitsubishi)
- Type 2: For alternating current (AC) charging
- Tesla: Specific stations, but increasingly more Tesla Superchargers are now open to other brands
Geographical Distribution of Charging Stations ⚡🗺️
PSetting out to discover the most beautiful beaches of Lofoten or exploring the picturesque villages of the archipelago will be all the more enjoyable when you know where to charge your vehicle. Here’s the distribution of the main charging stations across the islands.
Svolvær: The main charging hub
Svolvær, the gateway to the archipelago and the main urban center of Lofoten, has the largest number of charging stations. If you arrive by plane to Lofoten, this is probably where your journey will begin.
Key points in Svolvær:
- Alti Svolvær (Lofotgata 33): 8 CCS points up to 200 kW, 3 CHAdeMO and 4 Type 2
- Recharge Shell Svolvær (Caroline Harveys vei 8): 8 CCS points up to 200 kW and 2 CHAdeMO
- Tesla Supercharger Svolvær (Caroline Harveys vei 8): 8 CCS points at 250 kW, open to all EVs
- ChargeUp – Aust-Lofoten VGS (Gymnasgata 13): 1 CCS and 1 CHAdeMO at 60 kW
The concentration of chargers in Svolvær makes it a strategic point to start your day with a full battery. Plus, while your car is charging, you can take the opportunity to visit the Arctic Cathedral of Tromsø, an architectural marvel not to be missed if you pass through Tromsø before or after your stay in Lofoten.
Leknes: Strategic charging center
Halfway through the archipelago, Leknes constitutes another hub for charging your electric vehicle. This central position makes it an ideal stop during your exploration of the islands.
Notable points in Leknes:
- Rema 1000 Leknes (Idrettsgata 61): 5 CCS, 2 CHAdeMO and 2 Type 2, up to 360 kW
- Lofotsenteret (Storgata 8): 4 CCS and 1 CHAdeMO up to 150 kW
- Circle K Leknes (Storgata 35): 2 CCS and 2 CHAdeMO at 50 kW
- LAD OPP | Lofoten Basecamp (Skreda 49): 4 CCS at 400 kW (the most powerful in Lofoten!)
If you plan to rent a car in Lofoten, know that more and more agencies offer electric vehicles. Take advantage of your time in Leknes to explore the surroundings and perhaps even visit the Lofotr Viking Museum while your car is charging up.
Reine and Moskenes: Charging at the end of the world
The southern part of Lofoten, with some of the most spectacular landscapes in the archipelago, is not lacking in charging options. If you plan to visit the village of Reine, you’ll find several options to charge your vehicle.
Stations to know:
- Reine Supercharger (Sverdrups Vei 7): 4 CCS at 250 kW, open to all EVs
- Reine Sentrum (Reineveien 111): 6 CCS and 3 CHAdeMO up to 200 kW
- Bodø Energi | Reine (Reine ytre havn 1): 3 CCS and 2 CHAdeMO up to 200 kW
- Several accommodations offer Type 2 or Tesla charging points: Reine Rorbuer, Sakrisøy Rorbuer, May’s Apartments
As this region is one of the most visited in Lofoten, especially for observing the Northern Lights, it is advisable during high season not to let your battery get too low before seeking to recharge.
Other important locations
- Ramberg:
- Bodø Energi | Ramberg (Flakstadveien): 3 CCS, 2 CHAdeMO and 2 Type 2 up to 150 kW
- Flakstadveien: 4 CCS and 7 Type 2 up to 100 kW
- Henningsvær:
- Several slow charging options (Type 2 and Tesla) at hotels and rorbuer
- Ballstad:
- Solsiden Brygge Rorbuer (Moloveien 41): 2 Tesla connectors at 8 kW
- Nusfjord:
- Nusfjord Rorbuer (Nusfjordveien 110): 1 Tesla connector at 17 kW
If you plan to explore the scenic route of Senja (a day trip from Lofoten), make sure you have enough range as charging options there are more limited than in Lofoten.
Planning your EV trip to Lofoten: Practical tips 📱🗓️
Traveling by electric vehicle in Lofoten requires a bit more planning than with a conventional vehicle, but with the right tools and a few tips, the experience becomes a real pleasure. Here are our Curious Souls’ tips for a successful electric adventure.
Essential apps for your trip
Before your departure, download these essential applications:
- PlugShare: The most comprehensive, with very helpful user comments
- ChargeFinder: Excellent coverage in Norway
- Electromaps: Allows route planning
- Operator apps: Eviny, Kople, Mer (to activate and pay for charging)
Don’t hesitate to create your accounts and register your payment methods before arriving in Norway. This will save you precious time!
Seasonal factors to consider
Arctic winter ❄️
If you visit Lofoten in winter to admire the Northern Lights, keep in mind that negative temperatures can reduce the range of your electric vehicle by 25 to 40%.
- Plan for larger safety margins
- Favor short trips between charging points
- Activate battery preheating during charging
- Use seat heating rather than hot air to save energy
“During our stay in January 2025, our electric SUV which advertised 450 km of range actually offered only 280 km with temperatures ranging between -5°C and -15°C. But even with this reduction, we were able to explore the entire archipelago without any stress!”
Summer and midnight sun ☀️
In summer, your vehicle’s range will be optimal, but it’s also the peak tourist season. Some advice:
- Charge early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid queues
- Take advantage of the midnight sun to charge while most tourists are sleeping
- Book accommodations with charging options for more flexibility
Accommodations with charging stations
One of the best strategies for traveling worry-free in an EV in Lofoten is to stay in accommodations equipped with charging stations. Several options are available:
- Reine Rorbuer: Several Type 2 and Tesla points
- Nusfjord Rorbuer: Tesla connector
- Henningsvær Bryggehotell: Type 2 and Tesla options
- Unstad Arctic Surf: 2 Tesla connectors at 7 kW
If you’re looking for unusual hotels, many charming establishments in Lofoten have equipped themselves with charging solutions. This option allows you to start each morning with a full battery without wasting time during the day.
The EV experience in Lofoten: Testimony and practical advice 🌊💡
Traveling by electric vehicle through Lofoten offers a unique experience, combining modern technology and wild nature. Here are some practical elements based on our own experience:
Recommended routes and range
For a typical 5 to 7-day stay, here’s how to organize your charging:
- Day 1: Arrival in Svolvær, full charge at Alti Svolvær
- Day 2: Exploration of Henningsvær, top-up charging if necessary
- Day 3: Route to Leknes and Haukland Beach, charge at Rema 1000 Leknes
- Day 4: Visit to Ramberg and Fredvang, charge at Bodø Energi Ramberg
- Day 5: Discovery of Reine and Å, charge at Reine Sentrum
- Day 6: Return to Svolvær, final charge before departure
The distances between the main towns are relatively short:
- Svolvær to Leknes: about 65 km
- Leknes to Reine: about 40 km
- Reine to Å: about 8 km
Even in winter with reduced range, these distances remain manageable with existing charging infrastructure.
Costs and payments
Charging your electric vehicle in Norway is generally less expensive than filling up with gasoline, but prices vary:
- Fast charging (DC): Between 3.50 and 5 NOK per kWh (about €0.35 to €0.50)
- Normal charging (AC): Between 1.50 and 3 NOK per kWh (about €0.15 to €0.30)
- Hotel charging: Often free for guests or charged at cost
Most operators accept international credit cards and offer applications to facilitate payment.
Best practices for a stress-free experience
To fully enjoy your electric road trip in Lofoten, here are some additional tips:
- The 80/20 rule: Avoid going below 20% battery and don’t always try to charge to 100% (80% is generally sufficient and charging is faster up to this threshold)
- Combine charging and activities: Plan your charging stops with visits, meals, or hikes
- Driver solidarity: Don’t occupy a fast charger longer than necessary, especially during peak season
- Have a plan B: Always note the next available station just in case
- Check for updates: Applications are generally up to date, but a phone call to your accommodation to confirm the availability of a charger can avoid surprises
Sustainability and environmental impact: Going green in the Far North 🌱❄️
Choosing an electric car to explore Lofoten fits perfectly with our Curious Souls philosophy and our commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism.
Why electric makes sense in Norway
Norway produces more than 98% of its electricity from renewable sources, mainly hydroelectric. Thus, driving an EV in this country has a particularly low environmental impact. By traveling around Lofoten in an electric car, you contribute to:
- Reducing CO2 emissions and air pollution
- Decreasing noise pollution in preserved natural spaces
- Supporting the energy transition and the local economy
The breathtaking landscapes of Lofoten, with their immaculate Arctic beaches and majestic fjords, deserve to be preserved. Each journey in an electric vehicle is a small step in this direction.
Beyond the car: sustainable mobility in Lofoten
While the electric car is an excellent way to explore the archipelago, don’t forget that sustainability also comes through other practices:
- Favor hikes to explore certain sites
- Consider electric bikes for short distances in summer
- Opt for silent cruises to discover the fjords
- Support local initiatives and neighborhood businesses
Conclusion: The Electric Adventure awaits you in Lofoten! 🚗⚡🏔️
Traveling by electric vehicle in Lofoten is no longer a challenge in 2025, but an opportunity to discover this magical archipelago in a more environmentally friendly way. With a constantly improving charging infrastructure, relatively short distances between points of interest, and the pleasure of driving silently through breathtaking landscapes, the experience is well worth the few adjustments needed in your planning.
Whether you come to admire the Northern Lights in winter or enjoy the midnight sun in summer, your electric car will be a faithful companion to explore every corner of this Arctic jewel.
So, ready to plug in your sense of adventure and set off to discover Lofoten in zero-emission mode? Don’t hesitate to share your experience with our community of Curious Souls!
FAQ: Your questions about charging in Lofoten
What range do you need to tour the entire Lofoten Islands?
To travel the entire Lofoten Islands from Svolvær to Å, count about 150 km. A car with 250 km of actual range (taking into account winter conditions if necessary) is more than sufficient.
Can charging stations be found in isolated places?
The main charging stations are concentrated in towns, but many accommodations, even in more remote places, offer slow charging solutions.
What if a charging station is out of order?
Operators usually ensure quick maintenance. In case of a problem, the PlugShare application will indicate the closest alternatives. It’s also a good idea to always keep a sufficient range reserve.
Are there particular advantages to driving an EV in Norway?
Besides the environmental benefits, EVs often enjoy reduced rates on certain ferries and parking lots. Electric driving is also particularly quiet, allowing you to better appreciate the surrounding nature.
Article mis à jours le 20 March 2025 par Pierre Bouyer
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