Electric car drivers to benefit from 'largest ever' rollout of on-street EV chargers - 'Huge moment'

WATCH: The Department for Transport announces measures to make it cheaper to install electric vehicle chargers

DEPARTMENT FOR TRANSPORT
Felix Reeves

By Felix Reeves


Published: 08/04/2025

- 10:27

There are almost 77,000 public electric vehicle chargers across the UK

One of the largest street charging projects in the UK is set to be given the green light, with more than 6,000 electric vehicle chargers set to be installed.

The landmark initiative from char.gy will establish a new benchmark for public charging infrastructure deployment across the country.


This major project comes at a critical time in Britain's transition to electric cars, with more than 1.3 million EVs now on UK roads.

The scheme has been awarded by Brighton and Hove City Council (BHCC) and aims to boost consumer confidence and accelerate electric vehicle adoption.

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Electric vehicle charging

The new EV charging boost will give motorists more confidence to switch to electric cars

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As one of the first major initiatives of its kind, it signals the beginning of a nationwide, large-scale rollout of street charging infrastructure planned over the next two years.

Local authorities across England will soon launch similar projects using Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) funding. It addresses a critical need for the estimated 30 per cent of drivers who lack access to home charging facilities.

These street chargers eliminate the need to drive to dedicated charging stations, making EV ownership more convenient for those without driveways.

EV charging provider char.gy offers some of the lowest available rates across their network, with the pay-as-you-go night tariff at 39p/kWh.

For households that will rely on public infrastructure to charge their vehicles, these nationwide projects represent a game-changing development.

The Brighton and Hove initiative aims to act as a powerful example of how public and private sectors can collaborate to deliver impactful EV infrastructure.

John Lewis, CEO of char.gy, described the project as "a huge moment for the country and its EV ambitions" and praised BHCC as a "consistent leader in the EV space".

He added: "At char.gy, we're committed to delivering a seamless, affordable and convenient charging experience for everyone in Brighton and Hove - because that's key to encouraging EV uptake."

"This partnership alone will empower thousands of residents to confidently make the switch to electric vehicles, knowing they have easy access to chargers."

Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood emphasised the importance of accessible charging infrastructure.

She said: "Rolling out over 6,000 chargers across Brighton and Hove will make driving an electric vehicle easier and more convenient, especially for those without a driveway.

"It will power growth, cut emissions and improve lives in Brighton and Hove and beyond, as we continue to create jobs, attract investment and secure our future as part of our Plan for Change."

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Electric car charging

More than 6,000 chargers will be installed across Brighton and Hove as part of the plan

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Quentin Willson, Founder of FairCharge, called the project a confidence booster for motorists who are still unsure about switching to an EV.

Similarly, Melanie Shufflebotham, co-founder and COO of ZapMap, added that "convenient and affordable charging is essential" for drivers without home chargers.