Members of the UK automotive industry have published a new seven-point plan which proposes binding targets for the chargepoint rollout, measures to de-risk infrastructure investment and support for local authorities.
The plan, designed to drive collaboration between government, industry and all other stakeholders, calls for mandated targets for infrastructure rollout, backed by an independent regulator to keep consumers at the heart of planning.
According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), government, local authorities and the charging infrastructure sector have successfully delivered a 3,000% increase in the number of standard public chargepoints compared with 2011.
However, as demand for EVs has grown – accounting for more than one in six new cars in 2021 – standard public charging infrastructure has struggled to keep pace, SMMT said.
It is proposing a nationally coordinated and locally delivered infrastructure plan that puts the needs of consumers first, while also giving chargepoint operators and local authorities certainty to install the right number of the right chargers in the right places ahead of need.
SMMT is also calling for the creation of a new regulatory body, ‘Ofcharge’ (the Office of Charging), to monitor the market, including charging price levels and affordability, and to enforce regulated minimum standards. This would create a unified approach bringing together drivers, chargepoint operators, energy companies and local authorities.
SMMT added with car makers having invested billions of pounds to bring more than 140 models of plug-in car to market in the UK and 55 more to be launched this year, a guarantee on infrastructure provision will give consumers the confidence to make the switch in even greater numbers.
“The automotive industry is up for the challenge of a zero-emission new car and van market by 2035. Delivering this ambition – an ambition that would put the UK ahead of every major market in the world – needs more than automotive investment,” said Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive.
“It needs the commensurate commitment of all other stakeholders, especially the charging industry as surveys show that range anxiety has been replaced by charging anxiety.
“Our plan puts the consumer at the heart of this transition, assuring them of the best possible experience backed by an independent regulator. With clear, equivalent targets and support for operators and local authorities that match consumer needs, government can ensure the UK has a chargepoint network that makes electric mobility a reality for all, cutting emissions, driving growth and supporting consumers across the UK.”
