The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) is calling for the creation of an independent charge point regulator…
SMMT Calls for Charger Regulator
The government must set up an independent regular for EV charge points, in order to ensure that public charging becomes more widely available and affordable; that’s according to the SMMT. The body has produced a seven-point plan which, it suggests, will lead to greater cooperation between the state and private interests.
In particular, the plan calls for consumer interests to be at the heart of all decisions made concerning charging infrastructure. This approach would be “nationally coordinated but locally delivered”. Moreover, the plan suggests that infrastructure should be planned, and implemented, well ahead of demand. It also wants to see minimum standards introduced. These would include the likes of contactless payment options, pricing transparency and 99% levels of reliability.
In essence, the SMMT wants private investment in public charging infrastructure to become significantly less of a risk; thereby increasing the amount of chargers in the UK, making owning, and driving, an EV easier.
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Mike Hawes, chief executive of the SMMT, commented on the plan. He said, “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. 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commitment of all other stakeholders; especially the charging industry as surveys show that range anxiety has been replaced by charging anxiety”.
He continued, “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, the 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”.
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