Daily EV news · UK · 15 January 2026
EV Charging
Zest to deliver 200 plus charging points in Lewisham under £1.5 million street charging deal
Lewisham Council has partnered with charge point operator Zest to install a minimum of 200 on street charging points across the London borough over 15 years, backed by £1.5 million in initial investment from Zest. The first 14 charging bays have been completed, with the first point going live on Childers Street in December 2025. The project targets households without off street parking and is supported by the UK government's On Street Residential Chargepoint Scheme (ORCS), at no cost to the council or taxpayers.
Why it matters
The 15 year operate and maintain contract demonstrates how local authorities can deploy residential charging at scale without upfront capital, a model that procurement teams in similar urban boroughs may replicate. ORCS grant support and a minimum 200 point commitment offer CPOs visibility on long term revenue in dense, on street markets.
Electric Vehicles
Derbyshire fire service warns on charger compatibility after Peugeot EV driveway fire
An electric Peugeot caught fire on a driveway in Whaley Bridge, Derbyshire, on 23 November, taking emergency crews an hour to extinguish the blaze that started around 2am and likely originated in the engine compartment involving the lithium ion battery. Derbyshire Fire and Rescue issued a warning urging drivers never to use a charging point incompatible with their vehicle make. Neighbours reported at least four explosions and breathing difficulties from fumes, with one resident requiring extra asthma medication for approximately two weeks.
Why it matters
The incident underscores operational safety risks for charge point operators and highlights the importance of compatibility standards in public and workplace charging infrastructure. Fire service guidance on charger compatibility may influence procurement specifications and risk assessments for CPOs deploying multi standard equipment.
Transport for Greater Manchester launches new fully electric bus route
Transport for Greater Manchester has introduced a new fully electric bus route, marking an expansion of zero emission public transport in the region. The Northern Quota reported the launch, though specific details on fleet size, route number or operator were not disclosed in the available excerpt.
Why it matters
The rollout signals continued procurement of electric buses by UK transport authorities and may indicate upcoming charging infrastructure tenders to support expanded zero emission fleets across Greater Manchester's network.