Remember the early days of mobile phones, when finding a signal was like searching for buried treasure? That’s somewhat similar to how electric vehicle (EV) charging felt just a few years ago. But thanks to new legislation and government initiatives, that’s rapidly changing. The UK is building a comprehensive charging network that aims to make long-distance EV travel as straightforward as driving a petrol car.
A Network Built for Everyone
The UK government’s Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy sets out an ambitious vision: by 2030, the country will need at least 300,000 public chargepoints—that’s more than four times the number of fuel pump spaces currently available (from the Strategy document). But it’s not just about numbers; it’s about creating a network that works for everyone, wherever they live or travel.
The Rapids Revolution
One of the most significant developments is the focus on rapid charging along major roads. These aren’t your standard home chargers—they’re ultra-rapid units capable of adding hundreds of miles of range in the time it takes to enjoy a coffee break.
Making it Work for Everyone
The government isn’t just focusing on installation; it’s also ensuring the charging experience is smooth and reliable. New regulations require:
- Price transparency so you can compare costs easily
- Reliable payment methods, including contactless options
- Minimum reliability standards (99% for rapid chargers)
- 24/7 customer support
Think of it like using a cash machine—you expect it to work every time, accept any bank card, and clearly show any fees upfront. That’s the standard being set for EV charging.
The Smart Revolution
Perhaps the most innovative aspect is the push towards “smart charging.” This isn’t just about plugging in your car; it’s about making the whole system work more efficiently. New legislation requires home charge points to have smart capabilities, allowing users to charge when electricity is cheapest or when renewable energy is most abundant.
Looking Forward
By 2035, the government plans to have over 6,000 high-powered charge points across England motorways and major A-roads. This isn’t just about making EV travel possible; it’s about making it preferable. With rapid chargers never more than 25 miles apart on the strategic road network, range anxiety could soon be as outdated as worrying about finding a phone box.
The transformation of the UK’s charging infrastructure isn’t just a technical challenge—it’s a revolution in how we think about travel. Just as we now take mobile phone coverage for granted, the aim is to make EV charging an equally reliable and unremarkable part of our journeys. The legislation is laying the groundwork for a future where “charging anxiety” is as antiquated as dial-up internet.
Darren has owned several companies in the automotive, advertising and education industries. He has run driving theory educational websites since 2010.