UK Breaks Record with Installation of Public Electric Vehicle Chargers

The UK has achieved a new milestone in its transition to electric vehicles (EVs), with a record number of public EV chargers installed this year.

Data from Zapmap, published by the Department for Transport, reveals that nearly 6,000 new chargers were installed in the first quarter of 2024, with approximately 1,500 of them being rapid chargers capable of powering up a car in less than an hour.

As of April 1st, the UK boasts just under 60,000 public chargers, marking a 49% increase compared to the previous year. This surge indicates a doubling of public chargers of all speeds since the beginning of 2022.

The expansion of EV charging infrastructure is crucial as the number of battery-powered vehicles on British roads continues to grow. While some EV manufacturers, including Tesla and China’s BYD, have faced declining sales due to factors like higher interest rates, the share of electric models in total car sales remains steady at 15.5% this year.

Addressing concerns about range anxiety, which is a common barrier to EV adoption, the UK has been rapidly reducing black spots by installing chargers in areas with high demand. Ben Nelmes, CEO of New AutoMotive, attributes this progress to both government grants supporting charger installation by councils and increased private sector engagement.

North-east England and the south-west have experienced the fastest growth in charger numbers per person, while Northern Ireland, although showing improvement, remains the most underserved region in the UK. In contrast, London leads in charger density, with 221 chargers per 100,000 people, reflecting efforts to cater to a wealthier population more likely to own EVs, particularly in areas with limited off-street parking.

With over 1 million electric cars sold in the UK, the data indicates that range anxiety is decreasing among EV drivers, affirming the positive impact of expanding charging infrastructure on public confidence in electric mobility.