Dynamic QR codes: unlocking a better charging experience
QR or ‘quick response’ codes have been around since the nineties, enabling devices like cameras – and latterly mobile phones – to read, process and interpret information. Their popularity rebooted during the COVID-19 pandemic due to the contactless nature of the technology.
This coincided with improved QR reading capabilities in smartphones, enabling an instant connection between organisations and their customers. Using QR technology, charge point operators (CPOs) can reach EV drivers at their point of charging.

What exactly is a QR code?
A QR code is a two-dimensional barcode that digital devices scan to quickly access information or trigger specific actions. Traditional barcodes store data in a linear fashion. QR codes, however, can hold more data – including URLs, contact information and commands to perform actions like opening an app or automatically connecting to Wi-Fi. There are two main types of QR code – static and dynamic.
Static QR codes
After generation, it’s not possible to change the information in a static QR code. They therefore link users with permanent information, such as specific webpages or contact details.
Dynamic QR codes
Dynamic QR codes allow owners to update the destination page and content after creation, without changing the code’s appearance. They also offer flexibility for updating information, for example during promotional campaigns.
Where a programmable screen’s available (on EV chargers, for example), smart technology enables these QR codes to physically change after each use. Updating the QR code itself at regular intervals offers security and flexibility advantages (see ‘What other benefits do dynamic QR codes bring?’, below).
Why do QR codes suit EV charging?
The Government’s goal is to move drivers from greenhouse gas (GHG)- emitting internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to electric vehicles. For that to happen, there needs to be as few barriers to practicality as possible.
QR codes support improvements in user experience. They complement other payment methods and facilitate widespread interoperability without needing network membership or specific app download. Scanning the code takes the user to a secure webpage for making a transaction without signing up – a truly ‘ad hoc’ payment experience.
QR codes also align with standards like the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR), which promotes secure and user-friendly payment methods at charging stations.
For CPOs, QR codes’ ease of use encourages more charging sessions, leading to increased revenue. There’s another financial benefit too – integrating QR code-reading systems is often cheaper than installing traditional card readers and other payment terminals.
What other benefits do dynamic QR codes bring?
Dynamic QR codes offer some extra benefits to CPOs and drivers: security and flexibility.
The characteristics of dynamic QR codes protect the CPO from the threat of unlawful access to destination payment pages or user redirection. They can also enable CPOs to protect end users. Dynamic QR codes on programmable screens prevent users from visiting the wrong destination pages, paying the wrong account, or seeing misleading information.
In terms of flexibility, dynamic QR codes avoid CPOs having to reprint stickers or reprogramme chargers’ on-screen content. Instead, they remotely govern what drivers see on-screen or via their mobile devices when paying for charging sessions. This can include operational information like terms and prices – or promotional content as CPOs seek to generate advertising revenue.
An added advantage is that dynamic QR codes can track scans and record details of charging sessions. These insights can help CPOs better understand user profiles and charging preferences, and improve advertisement targeting.
Are there any drawbacks?
Dynamic QR codes are more secure for users and CPOs. They increase accessibility for drivers and improve flexibility for owners. But they’re not as simple as sticking a static QR code on a charger.
Initial implementation’s more complicated. Setting up the system and processes for generating and managing dynamic QR codes requires a robust back-end infrastructure and ongoing maintenance.
Despite increased convenience thanks to smartphones’ improved scanning functionality, drivers may be unfamiliar with the technology, necessitating educational efforts to ensure widespread adoption.
The future of dynamic QR codes in EV charging
Dynamic QR codes will likely be an important part of EV charging for years to come. They complement alternative payment methods and enable developments in personalised content.
Eventually, we expect the ISO 15118 regulations and the implementation of ‘Plug & Charge’ technology to supersede other payment methods.
Plug & Charge involves the EV itself becoming the payment device (or ‘wallet’), where it’ll enable secure payments in the same way mobile phones now do. At that point, there won’t be a use for a mobile-device or charger-screen interface beyond displaying prices.
This won’t necessarily spell the end for dynamic QR codes on chargers, though. They’ll still represent a valuable back-up method for payment in the event of Plug & Charge or embedded-vehicle-software failure, for example.
In most cases, it’ll be possible to retro-fit existing chargers that have screens with the ability to display dynamic QR codes. If, however, you’ve not yet invested in charging infrastructure, it’s definitely worth considering this functionality at the outset.
Speak to an electrification expert to help you cross-reference your business needs with both customer demands and new technologies. This will help you to configure your chargers optimally and reduce the chances of expensive investment mistakes.