Daily Electric Vehicle and EV Charging News

Bradford Council has granted planning permission for Motor Fuel Group to install six EV charging bays with canopy, plus jet wash and air/vac facilities, at the Morrisons anchored Enterprise 5 retail park. The scheme will remove 42 existing parking spaces. The application cited UK public charging infrastructure reaching 92,141 devices as of 1 April, up 4,345 since January.

Why it matters: The approval shows local authorities balancing EV infrastructure rollout against car park capacity, a trade off that procurement teams and site hosts must navigate when planning charging hubs at retail locations. Motor Fuel Group's multi use format combining charging, car wash and vacuum points may offer a template for maximising revenue per square metre at forecourt and supermarket sites.

InstaVolt has expanded its partnership with Zapmap, enabling over one million Zapmap users to pay directly for charging at more than 2,500 rapid and ultra-rapid chargers across almost 900 UK locations. The network, which includes sites at McDonald's, Costa Coffee, Booths and motorway service areas, has been named an EV driver recommended network in Zapmap's latest satisfaction rankings. InstaVolt deploys battery storage technology at key sites including its 44-charger Winchester superhub and Welcome Break Corley on the M6, the UK's first motorway services with on-site battery storage connected directly to chargers.

Why it matters: The integration with Zapmap's payment platform, covering over 80,000 chargers across more than 50 networks, signals growing interoperability in the UK charging market that may influence procurement decisions favouring networks with seamless user access. InstaVolt's grid-independent battery storage deployments at high-traffic retail and motorway locations offer a resilience model for CPOs planning infrastructure in constrained grid areas.

Motor Fuel Group has applied to Fylde Council for permission to install eight EV charging bays with canopy, substation and associated infrastructure at the Morrisons supermarket on Amy Johnson Way in Blackpool's Squires Gate area. The proposed hub would occupy approximately 0.13 hectares within the existing customer car park. No decision has yet been made on the application.

Why it matters: The scheme signals continued grocery retail investment in destination charging infrastructure, with Motor Fuel Group expanding its charging footprint beyond traditional forecourt sites. The eight bay configuration represents a mid scale hub that could inform procurement specifications for similar supermarket car park deployments.

ChargePoint has partnered with European direct payments provider Cariqa to enable charge point operators using the be.ENERGISED platform to offer QR code based payment. Drivers can scan a code and pay via Apple Pay, Google Pay, credit card or PayPal without downloading an app, registering an account or using a charging card. The solution can be white labelled in the CPO's own branding.

Why it matters: The partnership gives CPOs on ChargePoint's platform a turnkey way to reduce payment friction and driver drop off at the point of charge, potentially improving utilisation and revenue from existing hardware as the European market matures.

Andersen EV and Rightcharge have launched an integration that automates home charging reimbursement for electric fleets in the UK. The system connects Andersen home charge points to Rightcharge's payment platform, which calculates costs using drivers' actual home energy tariffs and pays energy bills directly, removing manual expense claims. Employers receive a single HMRC compliant monthly bill and can view all charging costs and activity through one dashboard.

Why it matters: The partnership addresses a persistent operational barrier for fleet electrification by automating reimbursement workflows that typically require manual administration. For CPOs and fleet operators, the integration offers a turnkey solution to manage distributed home charging costs with regulatory compliance built in.

ABB E-mobility has partnered with SaveMoneyCutCarbon (SMCC) to deliver its DC fast charging products to UK charging operators. The certified channel partner offers in-house design, grid connection management, installation, commissioning, software, back-office management, maintenance and operational support, alongside flexible financing options. ABB E-mobility works with a selected group of channel partners across Europe, each completing an onboarding and certification programme to ensure consistent installation and support quality.

Why it matters: The partnership creates a new procurement route for UK operators seeking turnkey DC fast charging projects, with a single supplier handling technical delivery from site design through to long-term maintenance. Flexible financing may lower barriers for fleet and depot operators planning charging infrastructure rollouts.

Doncaster has placed among the UK's top 10 cities for electric vehicle ownership in a study by Wolf River Electric covering 56 locations, recording 617.55 EVs per 10,000 people and electricity costs of £67.45. The city achieves 6.90% of properties with charging facilities, one of the stronger residential access rates in the research, though its public charging network remains comparatively underdeveloped relative to EV numbers.

Why it matters: The gap between high EV adoption and limited public infrastructure in Doncaster signals untapped demand for charge point operators and highlights how residential provision can partially offset public network shortfalls in procurement planning.

Connected Kerb has notified Shropshire Council that it will review charging tariffs across its network in response to significant increases in national electricity transmission and distribution charges taking effect from April 2026. The charge point operator expects to confirm any tariff changes by 10 September 2026, with revised rates taking effect no earlier than 14 September 2026. Connected Kerb is exploring options to minimise customer impact, including new energy supply arrangements and lower cost smart charging services.

Why it matters: The announcement signals how rising network costs from April 2026 may force CPOs to adjust pricing models, with implications for contract terms and revenue forecasts across local authority partnerships. Operators and councils will need to monitor whether similar tariff reviews emerge industry wide as transmission and distribution charges increase.

Tower Hamlets has begun installing on-street EV chargers in a project fully funded by Believ, targeting a borough where 93% of homes lack off-street parking. Early locations include White Horse Lane, Stepney Green and Chrisp Street, with a mix of dedicated EV bays and shared standard bays designed to protect existing parking access. The rollout supports the council's Climate Emergency Plan by cutting transport emissions.

Why it matters: The project demonstrates how private funding can unlock on-street charging in high-density urban areas with minimal off-street parking. Believ's full-funding model and the mix of bay types offer a template for councils seeking to expand EV infrastructure without upfront capital outlay.

RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey has launched a 32 bay EV charging hub with RAW Charging, comprising 24 fast chargers up to 22kW and eight rapid chargers up to 50kW. The site will offer free charging from 24 to 28 August 2026 and forms part of a 90 bay rollout across five RHS gardens supporting the charity's climate positive target by 2030. Located near M25 Junction 10, the hub is described as one of the largest destination charging sites in the Guildford and Wisley area.

Why it matters: The 32 bay installation demonstrates how visitor attractions can anchor substantial charging infrastructure, with the dwell time model (fast chargers for multi hour garden visits) offering a template for leisure and heritage site procurement. The 90 bay RHS portfolio with RAW Charging signals growing opportunities for CPOs to secure anchor tenant contracts tied to corporate sustainability commitments.

India's Ministry of Heavy Industries approved projects covering 4,874 EV chargers with a financial outlay of INR 503.86 crore as of May 2026, spanning eight states and three public sector oil marketing companies including HPCL, IOCL and BPCL. By June 2026, total approvals reached 6,562 chargers with INR 689 crore allocated, supported by a broader INR 2,000 crore fund under PM E-DRIVE for public fast charging infrastructure. Karnataka received the largest allocation with 1,243 chargers approved, while global projects in the UK, US and Australia are also advancing with charging capacities extending to 120 kW, 240 kW and 400 kW.

Why it matters: The scale of Indian government funding and the shift toward higher power outputs signal growing procurement opportunities for CPOs and suppliers across multiple vehicle categories, from two wheelers to trucks. State level approvals and oil company involvement indicate structured, large scale tender pipelines for fast charging deployment.

E.On Next has reduced the off peak rate on its Next Drive Smart tariff to 6.9p per kWh between midnight and 6am, a move the supplier says saves drivers up to £462 a year compared to charging on the energy price cap. The company has also cut its Next Drive Fixed tariff to 8.5p per kWh off peak, offering savings of £423 annually versus the cap.

Why it matters: Lower home charging costs strengthen the business case for domestic charge point installations and may accelerate residential EV adoption, expanding the addressable market for home charger suppliers and installers. The tariff competition among major energy retailers signals growing confidence in overnight demand management, a key factor for grid operators planning depot and fleet charging infrastructure.

RAW Charging has launched a 32-point EV charging hub at RHS Garden Wisley near M25 Junction 10, comprising eight 50 kW chargers and 24 22 kW chargers. The operator is offering free charging from 24 to 28 August through its RAW Rewards programme to mark the opening. The site forms part of a wider partnership that will see 90 charge points installed across five RHS gardens in total.

Why it matters: The deployment demonstrates how destination charging at high-footfall leisure sites is expanding UK public infrastructure, with the multi-garden rollout offering a template for CPOs targeting visitor attractions. The mix of rapid and fast AC chargers reflects dwell-time optimisation for garden visitors, typically staying several hours.

South Korean vehicle manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group and UK energy intelligence platform Kaluza have agreed to integrate smart charging capabilities into the Kia App and myHyundai App, launching in the UK in August 2026 and Australia shortly after. The partnership will lay the groundwork for vehicle to grid (V2G) services planned from 2027, designed to reduce energy costs by charging when renewable energy is abundant on the grid. Kaluza CEO Stephen Fitzpatrick described the collaboration as setting a new industry standard for EV and energy system integration.

Why it matters: The deal signals a major OEM commitment to managed charging and V2G across two key English speaking markets, potentially shaping grid service procurement and charging infrastructure requirements. CPOs and fleet operators serving Hyundai and Kia drivers may need to align with the new digital ecosystem to offer competitive smart charging propositions from 2026.

Slough Borough Council has begun a one-year trial of cross-pavement charging channels for residents without driveways, funded by £130,000 from the Department for Transport's Electric Vehicle Pavement Channels Grant. The scheme will install 20 Kerbo Charge cable gullies, with residents paying £399 towards installation costs, potentially saving them around £4,000 per year compared to public charging. The Kerbo Charge system is the only approved method for running a charging cable across a public footway in the UK.

Why it matters: The trial addresses a key barrier to home charging for on-street parkers and tests a scalable model that could inform wider local authority procurement of pavement channel solutions. The £399 resident contribution and £130,000 grant structure offers a replicable funding approach for councils seeking to expand residential charging access.

West Berkshire has been ranked the best local authority in Great Britain for home EV charging, scoring 8.55 out of 10 in research by Volta Charge Points. The study assessed factors including off street parking availability, domestic charger installations, electricity costs and commute times. Around 67 per cent of homes in West Berkshire have off street parking, the area has recorded 94 domestic EV charger installations, and average car commute times stand at 26 minutes.

Why it matters: The research highlights geographic disparities in home charging feasibility across Britain, signalling where residential charge point demand and installation volumes are likely to concentrate. For installers and suppliers, the data points to West Berkshire and similar high scoring authorities as priority markets for domestic hardware sales and deployment.

Ultra-rapid network Ionity has launched its first urban charging site in London, featuring 12 bays delivering up to 400kW at Greenwich Shopping Park on Bugsby's Way. The site, open to all EVs, marks Ionity's strategic shift from motorway corridors into metropolitan centres, following a similar hub opened in central Birmingham earlier in 2026. Ionity is offering free charging on 21 August 2026 via its app to celebrate the launch.

Why it matters: The move signals a major network operator pivoting from intercity routes to high-footfall urban retail locations, opening new site-acquisition and partnership opportunities in dense metropolitan areas. CPOs and local authorities will watch whether Ionity's 400kW urban model proves commercially viable and sets a benchmark for power and bay count in city centres.

Lancaster City Council's proposal for a solar canopy at Auction Mart Car Park in Thurnham Street is expected to receive approval, creating eight EV charging bays funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and DEFRA Air Quality Grant. The hub will generate on site electricity to power charge points directly, store energy or export surplus to the National Grid, with discounted tariffs for taxi drivers and residents. The council notes 45% of district households lack off street parking, making home charging installation impossible for many residents.

Why it matters: The scheme addresses a key barrier to EV adoption by targeting the 45% of households without off street parking through subsidised public charging infrastructure. Solar generation with battery storage may reduce operating costs for charge point operators while offering a replicable model for local authority procurement teams seeking grant funded deployments.

Milton Keynes placed seventh among 30 major UK cities for electric car charging infrastructure, with 1,005 public chargers as of 1 April 2026, equivalent to 329 per 100,000 people, according to analysis by Recharge Renewable using Department for Transport and Zapmap data. The city ranked second nationally for rapid and ultra-rapid charging density at 107 units per 100,000 people, behind only Dundee's 119 and nearly four times London's 27. Despite strong totals, the network shrank during the first quarter of 2026 as operators removed or reclassified more chargers than they added, affecting its overall score in a ranking topped by Dundee and concluded by Southampton.

Why it matters: The study highlights Milton Keynes as a high density charging market where rapid infrastructure is well established, yet first quarter network contraction signals potential rationalisation or reliability challenges that CPOs and local authorities must address. For procurement teams, the city's 329 chargers per 100,000 people, nearly double the UK average of 172, suggests competitive pressure and possible saturation in certain segments, requiring careful site selection and differentiation strategies.

LEAP24 has launched a four-bay EV charging hub on New Road near Heathrow Terminals 2 and 3, offering speeds up to 200kW and targeting taxi and private hire drivers. Uber has partnered with LEAP24 to add the site to its Heathrow waiting area. Through the LEAP24 Partner Card, drivers pay 54p per kWh during the day and 45p per kWh between 10pm and 7am, compared to the standard 69p per kWh daytime rate.

Why it matters: The hub addresses a critical need for rapid charging infrastructure at a major transport hub, with tailored pricing and integration into Uber's driver network. The partnership model and off-peak tariff structure offer a template for CPOs targeting commercial fleets in high-demand locations.

Stagecoach has launched Chargd, a B2B charging service that converts its bus depots into commercial EV hubs for third party fleets. Seven depots are now live, with further sites planned across its 100 plus depot estate through 2026 and beyond. Selected locations support eHGV charging for logistics, construction and utilities operators.

Why it matters: The move unlocks existing high capacity depot infrastructure for fleet operators struggling with charging access, and signals a new revenue model for transit operators with underutilised power and space. Stagecoach's phased rollout offers a scalable template for shared depot charging across the UK commercial vehicle sector.

A Freedom of Information investigation by Close Brothers Motor Finance found that 39 of Hampshire's 157 public chargers are unavailable, with 27 switched off due to low use, while Lancashire, West Sussex, Nottinghamshire and Essex councils hold no fault or reliability data at all. Northumberland leads with 97 per cent uptime across 487 chargers monitored hourly, and Surrey keeps downtime below 3 per cent on 411 sockets. The findings come as 52 per cent of surveyed drivers say they never use public charging, citing cost, availability and reliability concerns.

Why it matters: The data gap in four major counties and Hampshire's 25 per cent outage rate signal procurement and asset management failures that undermine public confidence in the charging network. For CPOs and local authorities tendering new installations, the contrast between best practice digital monitoring in Northumberland and the data black hole elsewhere highlights the operational standards now expected to win and retain contracts.

BYD has released technical specifications and pricing for its Flash Charging network ahead of its UK launch, following a June debut at the brand's UK headquarters. The system delivers up to 1,500kW through a single connector and can add over 200 miles of range in five minutes to compatible BYD vehicles, achieving a 10% to 70% charge in five minutes and 10% to 97% in nine minutes. Each charger uses two onsite storage batteries with 185kWh capacity each, totalling 370kWh, to bypass grid limitations and can charge two vehicles simultaneously at up to 1,000kW each.

Why it matters: The imminent UK rollout of 1,500kW charging infrastructure represents a step change in public charging speed and may influence procurement specifications for ultra rapid charging tenders. The onsite battery storage model offers CPOs a blueprint for delivering extreme power outputs without grid upgrade costs, addressing the 42% of UK buyers who cite charging time as a barrier to EV adoption.

RAW Charging activated a 14 bay charging hub at Chichester Gate Leisure Park on 17 August, comprising four 300kW ultra-rapid chargers, four 150kW units and six 22kW fast chargers. The site forms part of RAW's partnership with property firm Aberdeen, which now hosts more than 135 RAW charging bays across its UK portfolio. All bays offer contactless payment and the 300kW chargers can deliver a significant top up in around 20 to 30 minutes.

Why it matters: The hub demonstrates RAW's strategy of deploying high power infrastructure at leisure and retail destinations, a model that aligns dwell time with charging speed. The Aberdeen partnership signals a repeatable site acquisition route for charge point operators targeting managed property estates.

Public charging operator Allego has announced a €100 million (£85.5 million) investment to expand its UK network by 2030, targeting up to 1,400 ultra-rapid chargers at high-traffic locations along major roads and in urban areas. The CPO currently operates approximately 243 chargers in the UK, having entered the market in 2017, making this one of the largest commitments to UK public charging infrastructure this year. Allego is seeking partnerships with retail and hospitality businesses to host the new charging sites.

Why it matters: This represents a major procurement opportunity for site hosts and supply chain partners as Allego scales from 243 to potentially 1,643 chargers, signalling confidence that the UK market remains undersized compared to European peers. CPOs and contractors should note Allego's focus on high-traffic retail and hospitality partnerships, mirroring its European rollout strategy with brands like Burger King.

SparkCharge, an American distributed energy network, has announced its expansion into the UK, replicating its US model to provide independent power for autonomous vehicle fleets, construction sites and industrial operations requiring immediate energy access without grid connection. The company already operates across North America, serving commercial fleets, AV operators, data centres, events, ports and railheads. Founder and CEO Joshua Aviv said the demand for immediate, intelligent energy is a global story.

Why it matters: The UK launch addresses a procurement gap for operators deploying EV fleets or infrastructure ahead of grid capacity, offering an alternative energy source for sites needing power before mains connections are available. SparkCharge's model could accelerate rollout timelines for CPOs and fleet operators constrained by grid delays.

England is accelerating on-street EV charging deployment through the £381 million Local EV Infrastructure (LEVI) Fund, enabling councils to shift from pilot projects to borough-wide strategies. Wales has made progress but lacks the same pace, with local authorities facing competing funding priorities despite legal decarbonisation commitments. The article, published in Welsh community and business news, highlights the funding and delivery gap between the two nations.

Why it matters: The LEVI Fund model demonstrates how sustained capital backing enables councils to procure at scale and plan for long-term demand, a lesson for Welsh authorities and CPOs targeting multi-site rollouts. Without comparable investment frameworks, Welsh procurement may remain fragmented and slower to deliver the infrastructure needed to meet net zero targets.

Peterborough City Council has granted final planning permission for a 10-bay EV charging hub at Parkway Sports and Social Club, replacing a hand car wash. Moreco Investments Ltd secured approval in August after resubmitting plans in June with design changes including revised layout, updated charging equipment specifications, a new power cabinet, and removal of inter-bay landscaping and canopies. The site will feature five charging units serving 10 bays, including two PAS-compliant accessible bays, with 24/7 operation and pedestrian links to Boulevard Retail Park.

Why it matters: The approval demonstrates how brownfield sites can be repurposed for charging infrastructure, while the design revisions highlight the iterative planning process CPOs face when optimising hub layouts for operational efficiency. The inclusion of two accessible bays and retail park connectivity shows attention to accessibility standards and destination charging demand.

Southend City Council has installed new electric vehicle chargers at Alexandra Street Car Park, operated by Zest, replacing previous infrastructure. The deployment is part of the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure programme, one of the largest local charging schemes in the UK, backed by £1.4 million in government funding and Zest investment at no cost to the council. The chargers are now live and support the council's ambition to be a leading green city.

Why it matters: The project demonstrates how LEVI funding enables councils to upgrade public charging infrastructure without capital outlay, with Zest taking the investment risk. For CPOs and installers, it signals ongoing procurement opportunities as councils expand networks under government backed programmes.

Transport for Greater Manchester has appointed VEV Services Limited to design and build Tranche 5+ of its bus depot electrification programme, covering sites at Wigan and Wythenshawe. The contract value is £60m against a tender estimate of £65m. The award forms part of a multi-tranche delivery programme, with Tranche 6 expected to follow.

Why it matters: The £60m award signals continued public investment in depot charging infrastructure and opens supply-chain opportunities beneath the lead contractor on a multi-site delivery. Tracking the variance between tender and award values, plus the timing of Tranche 6, will help CPOs and suppliers position for upcoming Greater Manchester depot work.

Arnold Clark Charge, which operates over 400 chargers at 60 locations across the UK, has partnered with Octopus Electroverse to offer a monthly subscription giving drivers a 29% discount on DC fast charging compared to standard rates. The scheme aims to address the cost gap between public and home charging, which has been widened by the UK's VAT levy on public charging. Arnold Clark's Group Sustainability Manager Pablo Levi said the partnership supports affordability and accessibility as the UK transitions to electric vehicles.

Why it matters: The subscription model may influence how other charge point operators price access to their networks, particularly for drivers without home charging who face higher public tariffs. For procurement teams, the partnership demonstrates how dealership networks with existing charging infrastructure can leverage aggregator platforms to drive utilisation and customer loyalty.

Peterborough City Council has granted final planning permission for a 10-bay EV charging hub at Parkway Sports and Social Club, following a revised application by Moreco Investments Ltd in June. The scheme features five charging units serving 10 bays, including two PAS-compliant accessible bays, with officers approving the updated design in August after initial approval in November last year. The 24/7 facility will connect to Boulevard Retail Park and supports the council's Net Zero commitments and the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority's regional charging strategy.

Why it matters: The approval clears the way for construction of a mid-sized hub in a retail catchment area, offering accessible charging infrastructure that aligns with local and regional decarbonisation targets. For CPOs and installers, the project demonstrates how design refinements such as removing canopies and landscaping can streamline planning approvals while maintaining accessibility standards.

A poll of 2,000 drivers by Fastned found 87 per cent have or would travel to a staycation destination in an electric vehicle, while 81 per cent of EV motorists are confident the UK's public charging infrastructure can support long distance journeys. Cornwall topped the list of desired destinations, followed by the Cotswolds and the Scottish Highlands, with half of respondents now more inclined to holiday domestically than five years ago.

Why it matters: Rising driver confidence in the UK charging network validates infrastructure investment and signals growing demand for reliable fast charging along tourist routes. CPOs and site hosts in rural and coastal areas may see stronger business cases as EV adoption accelerates domestic leisure travel.

RAW Charging has launched a 28 bay charging hub at Charlton Riverside in Southeast London, comprising 12 50kW DC rapid chargers and 16 22kW AC fast chargers. The site is located near London City Airport and retail destinations including Sainsbury's, M&S, Boots, Decathlon and PureGym. RAW has now deployed over 65 charging bays across East and Southeast London through hubs at Eastern Avenue Retail Park, Gallions Reach Shopping Park, Merrielands Retail Park and Forest Hill.

Why it matters: The deployment demonstrates RAW Charging's continued focus on retail and leisure anchor sites, a model that offers predictable footfall and dwell time for charge point operators. The mix of 50kW DC and 22kW AC units reflects a strategy to serve both rapid top up and longer stay use cases at a single location.

Kempower has delivered its first UK project using a leasing finance model, installing eight CCS2 charging points at a BP service station in Astwick, Bedfordshire, for Highway Stops Retail Limited. The site, commissioned in February 2026, uses four Kempower Double Satellite units and two Power Units capable of delivering up to 400 kW per charger, with hardware procurement, installation and servicing handled by Yunex Traffic. The project was funded through a flexible finance agreement with DLL, Kempower's leasing partner since 2024.

Why it matters: The leasing model lowers upfront infrastructure costs and includes ongoing maintenance, addressing a key barrier to network expansion for charging operators. Astwick marks the first UK deployment of the Kempower and DLL partnership, offering a replicable finance route for future charging rollouts.

Warwickshire County Council has secured £3.295 million from the Department for Transport alongside approximately £15 million in private investment to expand its EV charging network. The contract will see EZO install at least 73 rapid charge point sockets and Connected Kerb provide 2,100 additional lower powered charge point sockets across the county. Warwickshire was part of a consortium of councils supported by Midlands Connect that secured the deals to improve EV charging infrastructure.

Why it matters: The mixed deployment model combining rapid and on street charging demonstrates how local authorities are using blended public and private funding to meet diverse charging needs. The consortium approach through Midlands Connect may offer a template for other regional authorities seeking to scale infrastructure delivery.

Vchrgd has appointed James Read as chief AI officer to lead development of AI powered tools, software and connected technologies as the company evolves from an EV charger manufacturer into an integrated charging technology business. Read, a former Boeing 777 captain with over 25 years' flying experience, previously worked within Tesla's Advanced Driver Assistance Systems testing programme leading UK and Finland teams before founding an AI powered financial compliance platform. The appointment supports Vchrgd's growth strategy announced earlier this year, with AI projects focused on improving experiences for installers, wholesalers, fleets and homeowners while complementing human led customer support.

Why it matters: The creation of a dedicated AI leadership role signals Vchrgd's strategic shift towards software and technology differentiation in the competitive UK charging market, potentially influencing procurement decisions for fleets and installers seeking operationally efficient charging solutions. AI driven operational improvements could affect pricing, service delivery and product roadmaps relevant to upcoming tender evaluations.

Cork provider Ohme is running a six month domestic flexibility trial with ESB Networks in Ireland, offering drivers up to €78 to plug in at home whenever parked. The EV Flex scheme uses Ohme hardware and software to charge vehicles when grid electricity is abundant and demand is low. Ohme previously ran a similar UK Crowdflex trial that paid participants a collective £400,000 over seven months.

Why it matters: Demand side flexibility trials demonstrate a revenue model for charge point operators and network operators to manage grid stress while incentivising off peak charging. Proven customer engagement in these schemes can inform procurement specifications for smart charging infrastructure and tariff design in both markets.

The Welsh Government announced on 11 August that electric vehicle charging bays and forecourts will receive 100% non-domestic rates relief until 2036. Local authorities will apply the relief using discretionary powers in 2024 to 2025, with backdating available to the start of the financial year, before regulations establish statutory relief from 2027 to 2028 through 2035 to 2036 subject to Senedd approval. Cabinet Minister for Finance Elin Jones said the measure removes a barrier to investment and gives operators certainty to expand infrastructure in underserved areas.

Why it matters: The decade long tax exemption lowers operating costs for charge point operators and site hosts in Wales, potentially accelerating deployment in rural and underserved regions where business case margins are tightest. Statutory certainty from 2027 to 2028 onward helps developers and investors model long term returns when bidding for Welsh concessions or planning private networks.

Roadchef has opened six new EV charging bays at its Hamilton Services site on the M74 in South Lanarkshire, served by three ultra-rapid chargers offering up to 360kW via CCS connectors. The location sits on a key corridor linking Glasgow, Edinburgh and northern England, where the UK's rapid and ultra-rapid charger network has grown 16 per cent over the past year. The 24/7 site aims to meet rising demand for high-power charging on one of Scotland's busiest motorway routes.

Why it matters: The rollout adds material ultra-rapid capacity on a strategic Scottish trunk route, signalling continued MSA investment in high-power infrastructure. Procurement teams and charge-point operators will note the 360kW specification and the 16 per cent annual network growth figure as benchmarks for corridor planning.

Intelligent charging manufacturer Ratio EV has appointed Evolt Charging as its inaugural accredited service and maintenance partner, extending support for fleet operators and workplace networks across the UK. Evolt's engineering team has completed Ratio's training programme and is now certified to specify, maintain and commission the manufacturer's full product line, which includes single and dual socket intelligent chargers up to 22kW for workplace, commercial and public applications. The accreditation strengthens Evolt's manufacturer agnostic service model, enabling customers with mixed hardware portfolios to access a single service partner across multiple charger brands.

Why it matters: The partnership addresses a critical procurement concern by offering fleet and workplace buyers a unified service route for mixed charger estates, potentially reducing downtime and simplifying maintenance contracts. For CPOs and commercial site operators managing multi vendor infrastructure, a single accredited partner covering Ratio hardware alongside other brands can streamline operations and improve uptime guarantees.

InstaVolt has announced that electric vehicle drivers in the Cotswolds will always be within 30 miles of one of its ultra-rapid charging stations. The UK charging network operator has highlighted three key locations serving the region to support summer visitors. All InstaVolt sites offer pay-as-you-go charging via contactless card, the free InstaVolt app, or RFID card.

Why it matters: The 30 mile coverage commitment demonstrates how charge point operators are positioning rural and tourist destinations as viable EV corridors, a key consideration for site hosts and local authorities planning charging infrastructure in high footfall leisure areas.

Sunderland City Council has provisionally awarded a £10.1 million contract to Meldrum Construction Services Group for the Houghton fleet depot, which includes EV charging infrastructure alongside fleet garages and facilities. The award was announced on 6 August 2026 and remains subject to standstill. The charging element forms part of the broader depot build, with the main contractor likely to procure EV suppliers through its own supply chain.

Why it matters: The contract highlights how depot electrification work typically flows through construction firms rather than direct tenders, meaning charging suppliers must target the main contractor's subcontracting pipeline. At over £10 million, the project reflects growing municipal investment in electrified fleet infrastructure, though the charging portion represents only a fraction of the total spend.

Cardiff-based Plug Charging, founded in 2023, has grown revenue by 335% year on year and gross profit by 868%, building a managed network of 1,500 chargers through three strategic acquisitions. The company tripled its workforce and now offers depot charging, public charging and full operations and maintenance services. Operating profit rose 1,262% and net assets increased 2,300% in the 12 month period, according to founder and CEO Jarrad Morris.

Why it matters: The rapid scaling of a two year old operator into a 1,500 point network signals consolidation in the UK market and highlights the viability of acquisition-led growth models. Procurement teams evaluating partners will note the shift toward integrated operations and maintenance capability alongside hardware deployment.

DC fast-charging manufacturer Kempower has opened eight new charging points at a service station in Astwick, Hertfordshire, funded through a leasing agreement with DLL that covers hardware, installation and maintenance. The site features four Kempower Double Satellites offering eight CCS2 connections, linked to two Power Units capable of delivering up to 400 kW per vehicle. Kempower and DLL partnered in 2024 to reduce capital barriers for operators, with Yunex Traffic providing procurement, installation and servicing for the project.

Why it matters: The leasing model addresses a key barrier in the UK charging rollout by shifting capital expenditure to operating expenditure, making large-scale deployments more accessible to smaller operators and fleet hubs. It also bundles long-term maintenance into the finance package, potentially simplifying procurement and reducing lifecycle risk for buyers.

Hertsmere Borough Council is funding upgrades to Newberries Car Park that include new electric vehicle charging bays, full resurfacing, and improved CCTV and signage. Installation of the EV charging bays is scheduled to begin in the week starting 3 August 2026, with resurfacing work planned for early September 2026. The construction period will reduce available parking spaces, though the council has committed to minimising disruption through traffic management measures and advance notices.

Why it matters: The project signals continued local authority investment in public charging infrastructure, with a clear timeline for procurement and installation teams working on council funded schemes. The phased delivery schedule and planned traffic management offer a template for minimising operational disruption during car park charging rollouts.

Charge point operator Allego, backed by infrastructure investor Meridiam, will invest €100 million to deploy up to 1,400 new ultra fast charging points across the UK by 2030. The rollout targets motorway corridors, major A roads and urban centres, with London a key priority, and is expected to create jobs in site acquisition, construction, engineering and network management. Allego entered the UK market in 2017 and views Britain as one of Europe's most attractive opportunities for EV charging investment.

Why it matters: The €100 million commitment signals sustained confidence in UK public charging demand and will intensify competition for high traffic sites along strategic corridors. Procurement teams and landowners can expect increased activity from Allego across motorway services, urban hubs and A road locations over the next six years.

The UK public EV charging network stood at 122,724 chargers by end July 2026, up 9.5% year on year, with 1,553 net new units added in the month including 359 rapid and ultra-rapid devices, according to Zapmap data. Moto Charge launched its third Super Hub at Tamworth services on the M42, installing 12 ultra-rapid bays rated up to 400kW alongside 24 Gridserve bays and eight HGV-dedicated points for a total of 44 ultra-rapid bays at the site. Allego separately announced plans to invest £85 million to deploy up to 1,400 ultra-rapid chargers in the UK by 2030, targeting retail and hospitality partnerships in high-traffic locations.

Why it matters: The sustained monthly rollout and year-on-year growth signal ongoing procurement opportunities for hardware suppliers and construction firms, while the Moto and Allego commitments point to large-scale tenders in motorway and retail environments through the end of the decade. CPOs and site hosts can benchmark the 9.5% annual expansion and the shift toward ultra-rapid infrastructure when planning capacity and partnership strategies.

Public charging now represents 70% of total fleet EV charging spend in the UK despite accounting for only 41% of energy consumed, according to Rightcharge's H1 2026 report analysing over 1.5 million kWh. Home charging averaged 23.8p per kWh while public charging averaged 80.9p per kWh, a 3.5 times difference, pushing the blended fleet rate from 40.5p per kWh to 46.9p per kWh. The busiest rapid chargers reached 91.5p per kWh, roughly 15 times higher than the 6p per kWh available on home EV tariffs.

Why it matters: The widening cost gap between home and public charging creates a procurement challenge for fleet operators, who bear the expense while drivers make location decisions often constrained by housing circumstances. The data underscores the financial pressure on public charging infrastructure to balance accessibility for drivers without home charging against the operational cost burden on fleet budgets.

Conservation charity National Trust and CPO RAW Charging have installed EV chargers at three Devon locations: Castle Drogo (eight fast-charging bays), Parke (two 50kW DC rapid and two 22kW AC chargers), and Lydford Gorge (two 50kW DC rapid and two 22kW AC chargers). More than 90 additional fast-charging bays are scheduled for National Trust sites across the UK in the coming weeks, including Lacock Abbey, Felbrigg Hall, Croome Court, and Hidcote. The rollout arrives ahead of the school holidays, when visitor numbers peak.

Why it matters: The partnership demonstrates how heritage and leisure destinations are becoming anchor sites for charging infrastructure, with accessible design and mixed-speed offerings (22kW AC for longer visits, 50kW DC for shorter stays) tailored to visitor dwell times. The 90-bay pipeline signals continued procurement opportunities for CPOs targeting high-footfall, publicly accessible locations.

EV charging solutions provider Sevadis has announced its MaxiCharger Gen2 range targeting van fleets, comprising eight devices that scale from a 7.4kW AC plug and play home charger to rapid and ultra-rapid DC chargers. The range is available in wall, pillar, post, single, dual or quad configurations for shared, paid or underground parking environments. Each device features Rapid Install technology supported by Sevadis' Installer App, with digital commissioning, remote configuration and integrated CT clamps designed to simplify installation.

Why it matters: The modular range offers procurement teams a single-supplier solution spanning home, depot and public charging with standardised installation processes that may reduce deployment costs and timescales. The SmartDock mounting system, which stores commissioning data for quick unit replacement, addresses a common maintenance pain point for CPOs managing distributed charging networks.

More than 500,000 drivers in the UK now use Octopus Energy's Intelligent Octopus Go home charging tariff, which charges 8p per kilowatt hour. Based on the average 7,600 miles per year, drivers save over £850 annually compared to running an equivalent petrol car, with electric running costs at around 2p per mile. The UK has an estimated 1.4 million home EV chargers installed.

Why it matters: The half million customer milestone demonstrates strong residential demand for time of use tariffs that lower charging costs, a key factor for CPOs and housing developers planning home charge point rollouts. The £850 annual saving figure provides a concrete business case for domestic charge point procurement and installation programmes.

The Sonning Cutting Filling Station, a BP site with Marks and Spencer retail at Shepherd's Hill on the A4 in Woodley, is set to install additional electric vehicle charging points. The location sits at a key junction linking Reading to Maidenhead. No figures on the number of chargers or installation timeline were disclosed.

Why it matters: The expansion adds charging capacity on a strategic A-road corridor between Reading and Maidenhead, signalling continued forecourt electrification by major fuel retailers. CPOs and installers may see further opportunities as BP and M&S co-branded sites upgrade infrastructure.

Blackburn with Darwen Council trialled cross-pavement EV charging infrastructure with ACO, targeting roughly 15,462 homes (26% of borough properties) without off-street parking. Council highways teams flagged metal theft risk and usability concerns, prompting ACO to replace metal covers with interlocking recycled rubber sections that residents can lift as one piece. The redesign simplified cable management for users and reduced installation complexity for contractors.

Why it matters: The case shows how early operator feedback during trials can reshape product design before wider rollout, cutting future maintenance and theft risk. For CPOs and councils procuring on-street solutions, it highlights the value of piloting hardware in varied street conditions rather than deploying off the shelf.

National Highways has opened premarket engagement on a £228m contract to expand electricity network capacity at motorway service areas across England, supporting ultra-rapid EV charging rollout. Developed with the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles, the scheme targets a subset of 116 MSAs, with individual sites requiring new connection capacity ranging from 5 to 50 MVA at 132kV, 33kV or 11kV. The contract is scheduled to run from 1 July 2027 to 30 June 2028, with tender publication expected on 4 January 2027.

Why it matters: This represents one of the UK's largest grid infrastructure procurements dedicated to EV charging, creating opportunities for NERS accredited suppliers to deliver high voltage connection assets. The scale and timeline signal government commitment to removing grid capacity constraints that currently limit rapid charger deployment at strategic motorway locations.

Arnold Clark Charge has partnered with Octopus Electroverse to offer a subscription service priced at £8.99 per month, giving EV drivers access to ultra-rapid charging at 39p per kWh across the Arnold Clark network. The rate represents a 29% saving on standard pricing and is aimed at drivers without home charging or those who frequently use public infrastructure.

Why it matters: The subscription model signals a shift towards membership-based pricing in the UK ultra-rapid segment, potentially influencing how CPOs structure tariffs to retain high-volume users. For procurement teams, it highlights competitive pressure on public charging rates and the growing role of aggregator platforms like Electroverse in driving network utilisation.

Trevor Taylor received a £90 parking charge notice after spending 16 minutes charging his electric vehicle at a Lidl car park in Barton upon Humber, North Lincolnshire, at around 6pm on 12 July, outside the store's opening hours. Lidl had introduced out of hours parking restrictions due to anti social behaviour concerns, but the retailer has now cancelled the ticket and is reviewing its EV charging policy at sites with car park restrictions. The BBC reports that Taylor's stay exceeded the car park's consideration and grace periods, which allow drivers time to read signs and decide whether to stay.

Why it matters: The case highlights a policy gap affecting charge point operators and retailers: EV drivers expect 24 hour access to public chargers, yet site owners may impose time restrictions for other reasons. Lidl's policy review could influence how other supermarkets and CPOs balance security concerns with the operational expectation of round the clock charging availability.

More homeowners in Stratford-upon-Avon and across Warwickshire are installing combined renewable energy systems that pair solar panels, battery storage and EV chargers, allowing them to generate, store and use their own electricity rather than rely on the grid during peak hours. Stratford Energy Solutions, a local renewable energy company, reports it has completed over 4,000 installations in the region over more than 15 years. The Stratford Herald notes the trend reflects households seeking greater control over energy use amid ongoing volatility in UK electricity bills.

Why it matters: The shift toward integrated home energy systems signals rising demand for EV chargers that work alongside solar and storage, creating opportunities for installers and equipment suppliers who can deliver turnkey packages. It also underscores the importance of smart charging features that prioritise self-generated power, a capability procurement teams should specify when tendering residential or workplace charge points.

On-street charge point operator char.gy will deploy 30 new kerbside EV charge points across Devon in a trial supported by the UK government's Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) Fund, posted 3 August 2026. All units will run on 100% renewable electricity, with lessons from the trial informing the next phase of installations. char.gy operates the UK's fourth largest on-street charging network with over 5,000 public charge points currently in operation.

Why it matters: The trial extends LEVI funded infrastructure into a large rural county, offering procurement teams a model for rolling out kerbside charging beyond urban centres. With the UK reaching around 87,000 public charging points at 45,000 locations by late 2025, the project tests scalable deployment in areas where on-street parking dominates.

Devon County Council and Torbay Council have appointed Believ, char.gy and Wenea to deploy almost 3,000 public EV charging points across the region. The rollout, set to begin within the next few months, combines £8 million from the UK Department for Transport's LEVI fund with around £30 million in private investment from the three charge point operators. Wenea will install rapid and fast chargers in public car parks managed by seven district and borough councils, Believ will deploy standard on-street units and community car park chargers, and char.gy will integrate charging infrastructure into existing lamp columns.

Why it matters: This multi-operator framework demonstrates how local authorities are leveraging LEVI funding to attract significant private capital, with the £8 million public investment unlocking nearly four times that amount in operator commitments. The project offers a procurement model for other councils seeking to deploy mixed charging solutions across on-street, car park and lamp column sites at scale.