The UK’s most popular EV charging networks have been revealed by Zap-Map’s annual survey.
Tesla, InstaVolt and Osprey (formerly Engenie) topped the survey, which was based on a sample of more than 1,500 Zap-Map users, and rated a total of 16 charging providers. Each were ranked between a maximum of five stars, with the lowest ranking of two stars.
Respondents were asked to rank the factors that were most important when choosing a charge point. Reliability, ease of use, cost and local amenities at the charging location were all cited as key elements.
According to the results, Tesla retained its top spot as Britain’s preferred EV charging provider, with one driver commenting that Telsa’s service is “the standard all networks should aspire to”. However, it did fall short on price, with Tesla finishing second to ChargePlace Scotland, where many chargers are free to use.
Instavolt retained its overall second place for the third year running. The survey praised InstaVolt’s reliability as well as the fact that there are generally two chargers at each location. Respondents were also encouraged by the consistent PAYG access through contactless payment.
In third place, the recently rebranded Osprey was one of the highest movers, having jumped up from eighth position in 2019. The findings highlighted its combination of reliable chargers, good visible locations, and easy payments using contactless and app access.
Ben Lane, CTO at Zap-Map, said: “This year’s network rankings should focus the minds of all EV charging providers. As the survey demonstrates, EV drivers are very clear about the factors that make for a good charging experience, with reliability and ease of use being key priorities.
“A new generation of drivers want to arrive at a charge point and be confident that it will be simple to use and a trouble-free experience. They are quick to pick up that different networks offer varying levels of service and will actively visit networks that provide a reliable and easy-to-use experience.”
Bp Pulse (formerly BP Chargermaster/Polar) dropped from fifth to 13th place, while Swarco E.Connect entered the list for the first time in fifth position.
Lane added: “The Zap-Map user rankings also highlight which networks urgently need to improve their charging services. As the EV market moves from early adopters to the mass market, EV drivers just want to be charge without any fuss.
“Poor-performing networks will need to take a long, hard look at the quality of the services they offer if they want to retain their customers as the EV market grows apace.”
The full survey results can be seen in the table below:
