Much more needs to be done in making EV chargers accessible if the nation’s fleets are to be won over to electrification…
Addressing EV Chargers
According to Venson Automotive Solutions, much more needs to be done if the nation’s fleets are to be won over to electrification. In particular, disparities concerning the accessibility of EV chargers remains a serious issue. Regional discrepancies are, ultimately, enormous; with many more chargers being concentrated in the south of the country, especially in London. In addition, there’s no standardised payment method. This means drivers often need to download a variety of apps in order to use infrastructure.
Data obtained by British Gas suggests that drivers are essentially falling victim to a ‘postcode lottery’. Where they live, or work, has a massive impact on how easy it is to charge their vehicles. For some fleets, the lack of infrastructure makes taking on electric vehicles logistically impossible. And with the ban on the sale of new diesel and petrol vehicles coming in 2030, many are naturally concerned.
Creating Barriers
Alison Bell, Venson operations director, commented on the current situation. She said, “whilst payments have been simplified, the network needs to improve so that drivers have the flexibility and convenience they need to make the switch to electric. As discussed in our recent white paper, ‘Living with Your Electric Vehicle’, motorway charging continues to be problematic; particularly where charging points use first generation tech that can be unreliable. The good news is, though, that progress is being made; and more reliable motorway charging points are emerging and the tide is turning towards a reliable public network”.
She continued, “the emergence of a new trend for energy and oil giants buying up EV charging networks is another interesting development; BP Pulse is part of the BP group, Shell has its own network of rapid charging points. Total recently acquired the Source London network and Pod Point is owned by EDF Energy. Clearly, the future direction of the automotive industry is electric, and it is a good sign that industry giants recognise the importance of a reliable network. However, major fleet stakeholders will need to be won over if we are to collectively meet the Government’s new EV world deadline”.
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