Daily EV news · UK · 2 April 2026
EV Charging
Energy firm cuts EV charging costs by 50% for UK households without driveways
A major energy company has announced a 50 per cent reduction in electric vehicle charging costs targeting millions of UK households that lack off street parking. The initiative, reported by The Sun, addresses a key barrier to EV adoption for residents reliant on public or on street charging infrastructure. No further details on the scheme's structure, participating firm, or rollout timeline were provided in the available excerpt.
Why it matters
The move could accelerate demand for kerbside and destination charging infrastructure in residential areas, creating procurement opportunities for local authorities and charge point operators serving households without private driveways. Lower tariffs may also influence site selection and business case modelling for public charging networks.
Electric Vehicles
Warrington launches apprenticeship scheme to train electric bus engineers
Warrington Borough Council has opened recruitment for an apprenticeship programme aimed at developing the next generation of electric bus engineers. The initiative supports the council's transition to zero-emission public transport as it expands its electric bus fleet. Details on the number of apprenticeships or programme duration were not disclosed in the announcement.
Why it matters
The scheme signals growing workforce requirements tied to electric bus procurement and fleet operations, highlighting skills gaps that CPOs and operators must address as they scale zero-emission fleets. Apprenticeship programmes may become a competitive factor in tender evaluations for councils prioritising local employment and long-term maintenance capability.
Xpeng opens Hull dealership as Chinese EV brand expands UK retail presence
A car dealer has launched a new Xpeng showroom in Hull, marking one of the first locations in the region for the Chinese electric vehicle brand. The opening forms part of Xpeng's wider UK retail expansion strategy. Hull Live reported the development, highlighting the growing presence of Chinese EV manufacturers in British dealership networks.
Why it matters
New OEM retail sites signal where charging infrastructure demand will follow, as dealers typically require on site charging for stock and customer handovers. The expansion of Chinese EV brands into regional UK markets may create opportunities for charge point operators to secure dealership contracts outside traditional automotive hubs.
Policy & Market
Used EV sales surge as UK fuel prices jump 20p to 40p per litre amid Persian Gulf conflict
Rising crude oil prices following US strikes on Iran on 28 February have pushed UK diesel up 40p per litre and petrol up 20p, both monthly records according to the RAC. Autotrader reports leads for new EVs rose 28% and used EVs 15%, while Browns of Richmond, a North Yorkshire used EV dealer, saw enquiries double and sales climb 60%, with customers queuing outside the showroom.
Why it matters
The spike in fossil fuel costs is accelerating consumer shift to electric vehicles, creating immediate demand for used EV stock and validating the business case for expanded charging infrastructure to support new adopters entering the market under cost pressure.