Daily EV news · UK · 13 February 2026
EV Charging
Harrow installs 500 new on-street EV charge points across borough with char.gy
The London Borough of Harrow has partnered with CPO char.gy to deliver 500 new on-street EV charge points, offering 7kW to 22kW speeds at lamp columns for residents without home chargers. Of the total, 225 units are already installed, with the remaining 275 due by 8 October 2026. Tariffs are set at 59p per kWh during the day (7am to midnight) and 39p per kWh overnight, the latter named the UK's most affordable public charge point from 2023 to 2026.
Why it matters
The rollout demonstrates how local authorities are scaling lamp column infrastructure to meet on-street demand, with char.gy's phased deployment model offering a blueprint for boroughs targeting drivers without off-street parking. The pricing structure and multi-year affordability recognition signal competitive pressure on tariff benchmarks across London's CPO landscape.
Zest installs EV chargers at six Home Bargains stores with two more in progress
Zest has completed EV charger installations at six Home Bargains locations in Arbroath, Ballymena, Cardigan, Carrickfergus, Newport and Sunderland, with speeds ranging from fast to ultra-rapid. Two additional installations are underway at Home Bargains sites in Ashford and Leigh. Zest already operates chargers at Co-op, Tesco, Spar and Starbucks locations, as well as shopping centres including Metrocentre, Frenchgate, Chantry Place and Merry Hill.
Why it matters
The rollout demonstrates how discount retailers are becoming viable hosts for charging infrastructure, expanding the addressable site pipeline beyond premium retail. Zest's multi-retailer portfolio shows CPOs can scale by replicating a proven retail model across different grocery and convenience chains.
Electric Vehicles
Chinese automotive firm selects Liverpool for first European headquarters
A Chinese automotive company has chosen Liverpool as the location for its inaugural European headquarters, according to Invest Liverpool. The announcement marks the firm's first operational base in Europe, though the release does not specify the company name, investment value or timeline. The move positions Liverpool as a gateway for Chinese automotive interests entering the UK and wider European market.
Why it matters
A Chinese auto manufacturer establishing European operations in the UK may signal future EV infrastructure partnerships or charging network investments tied to vehicle sales. For CPOs and installers, tracking which OEM is involved could reveal upcoming fleet or destination charging tenders in the Liverpool city region.