Daily EV news · UK · 9 January 2026
EV Charging
UK public charge point network grows by 19% in 2025
The UK public EV charging network expanded by 19.1% in 2025, adding 14,097 new charge devices to reach 87,796 devices across 45,033 locations, according to Zapmap data from December 2025. Ultra rapid chargers rated at 150kW and above saw the strongest growth, rising 41% to 9,893 devices, while charging hubs with six or more rapid or ultra rapid devices increased by 39% to 748 locations. Growth in high powered charging is increasingly occurring outside London and the South East, addressing previous regional disparities.
Why it matters
The 41% surge in ultra rapid devices and 39% rise in charging hubs signals accelerating investment in high throughput infrastructure that CPOs and site hosts need to meet fleet and long distance driver demand. Stronger growth outside London and the South East opens procurement opportunities in previously underserved regions where local authorities and developers are seeking to close the coverage gap.
Wigan Council launches 50 household pilot for pavement flush EV chargers without driveways
Wigan Council is partnering with Trojan Energy to trial the Trojan Home project, offering up to 50 households without private parking access to on street EV charging connected directly to their home energy supply. The pilot operates on a first come, first served basis and uses flat, pavement flush charging points designed to minimise obstructions. Councillor Paul Prescott said the scheme aims to help more residents switch to electric vehicles and support the council's carbon net zero goals.
Why it matters
The trial addresses a key barrier to EV adoption for households without driveways, a segment that represents significant untapped demand for charging infrastructure. For charge point operators and local authorities, pavement integrated solutions like Trojan's offer a scalable model to expand residential charging access in dense urban areas.
Electric Vehicles
Chery Tiggo 9 PHEV offers 91 mile electric range and fast charging in seven seat SUV
The Chery Tiggo 9, a seven seat plug-in hybrid SUV, delivers up to 91 miles of electric range and supports fast charging, according to a Carwow review. The vehicle achieved over 50mpg on long motorway runs when using Smart mode to preserve battery charge. Chery positions the Tiggo 9 as its flagship model, larger and more expensive than the Tiggo 7 or 8, with the PHEV system branded as Super Hybrid.
Why it matters
The 91 mile electric range and fast charging capability signal growing PHEV competition in the family SUV segment, potentially influencing charging infrastructure demand at residential and workplace locations. Fleet operators and charge point operators may see increased utilisation from PHEVs with extended electric ranges that support DC fast charging.
West Midlands Combined Authority considers fleet purchase before bus franchising transition
The West Midlands Combined Authority is exploring the acquisition of a bus fleet as it prepares for a shift to franchised bus services. The move comes as the region plans to take greater control of its public transport network. Place Midlands reports the authority is evaluating fleet procurement options ahead of the operational changes.
Why it matters
A franchised bus network typically requires coordinated charging infrastructure for electric fleets, creating potential procurement opportunities for depot charging suppliers and grid connection specialists as the WMCA transitions to direct service control.
Zeekr launches £40,000 7GT shooting brake with 480 kW charging to rival Tesla Model 3
Zeekr unveiled its 7GT five-seater shooting brake at the Brussels Motor Show, priced from €45,990 (approximately £40,000), targeting the Tesla Model 3, BMW i4, BYD Seal and MG IM5. The 4.8 metre vehicle runs on 800 V architecture supporting 480 kW ultra-rapid charging, delivering 211 miles of range in 10 minutes, and accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 3.3 seconds. Standard equipment includes a 35.5 inch augmented reality head-up display, 13 inch driver cluster and Zeekr Assisted Drive safety suite.
Why it matters
The 480 kW charging capability sets a new benchmark for mid-market EVs and will intensify pressure on charge point operators to deploy ultra-rapid infrastructure beyond premium segments. Zeekr's European market entry at competitive pricing adds another high-power charging demand driver for network planners assessing future capacity requirements.