Daily EV news · UK · 22 April 2026
EV Charging
North Yorkshire pauses £8 million EV charger rollout to review contractor approach
North Yorkshire Council has paused its £8 million government-funded EV charging network after failing to appoint an operator in 2024 as planned. Corporate director Karl Battersby confirmed the project is under review due to market changes, with procurement for a new contractor already underway. Green councillor David Noland criticised the delay, highlighting that the largely rural area faces significant charging deserts that prevent residents from transitioning to electric vehicles.
Why it matters
The pause signals procurement risk for CPOs expecting to bid on the £8 million contract, while the council's market review may reshape technical or commercial requirements. Delays in rural charging infrastructure directly affect EV adoption rates and create extended gaps in network coverage across North Yorkshire's large geographic area.
RAC and Zapmap counter EV charging speed myths as UK fleet passes 1.75 million vehicles
The RAC has launched a public information campaign to address misconceptions about electric vehicle charging times, citing data that shows over 1.75 million fully electric cars now operate on UK roads. James, Business Director at Zapmap, explained that most EVs charge overnight at home, requiring less owner time than visiting a petrol station, whilst ultra rapid public chargers can deliver a charge in as little as 20 minutes. The initiative comes as the UK prepares for a 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel car sales, requiring all new vehicles to be 100% zero emission.
Why it matters
As the UK EV fleet grows ahead of the 2035 combustion ban, accurate public understanding of charging speeds directly affects demand forecasts for both home and ultra rapid public infrastructure. Correcting the perception that charging is time intensive may accelerate fleet adoption and inform CPO investment in rapid charging networks at service stations and high traffic locations.
Norfolk lacks EV chargers to meet demand, expert warns
An expert has warned that Norfolk is not ready for the EV revolution due to insufficient charging infrastructure, according to EDP24. The report highlights a gap between the county's current charger provision and the pace of EV adoption. No specific figures on existing chargers or deployment targets were provided in the excerpt.
Why it matters
The warning signals potential procurement opportunities for charge point operators and local authorities in Norfolk to accelerate rollout. It also underscores the risk of lagging infrastructure deterring EV uptake in rural and semi-urban areas.
UK Government scraps planning rules for cross pavement EV charging
The UK Government has removed planning requirements for cross pavement EV charging infrastructure, as reported by Engineering and Technology Magazine. The policy change is intended to make it easier for residents without off street parking to charge electric vehicles by simplifying the installation of cable channels across pavements.
Why it matters
This regulatory simplification could unlock significant new demand for on street and residential charging solutions, creating opportunities for charge point operators and installers targeting areas where off street parking is unavailable.
Electric Vehicles
Somerset Council adds seven Cityline minibuses including one electric vehicle to demand responsive fleet
Somerset Council has expanded its Digital Slinky demand responsive transport service with seven Mercedes-Benz Sprinter based Cityline minibuses from EVM, comprising six diesel and one electric vehicle. The 16-seater low-floor minibuses feature wheelchair space, wide double-door entrance, driver information systems, digital destination displays and integrated ticketing, and will operate in Taunton and Wellington. The Cityline model has been in service with councils and public transport operators for over 12 years.
Why it matters
The procurement signals continued UK local authority investment in accessible demand responsive transport, with electric vehicles forming a small but growing share of new fleet additions. Operators and charging infrastructure providers should note the gradual electrification of council minibus fleets, though diesel remains dominant in this deployment.
Policy & Market
Oxford study says electrification can protect industry from energy crises
A study from Oxford warns that electrification is essential to shield industry from future energy crises, according to Engineering and Technology Magazine. The research highlights the vulnerability of sectors reliant on fossil fuels and argues that switching to electric systems offers greater resilience. The findings are relevant to UK industrial and infrastructure planning.
Why it matters
For CPOs and procurement teams, the study reinforces the strategic case for electrification infrastructure investment, particularly as industrial clients seek energy security. It may influence policy support and funding for commercial charging networks tied to industrial electrification.
UK Government to appeal VAT cut on public EV charging, drawing industry criticism
The UK Government has decided to fight a VAT reduction on public EV charging, prompting strong opposition from the EV industry. The move comes as stakeholders push for parity between home and public charging rates to support drivers without off street parking. What Car? reported the decision, which affects the tax treatment of public charge point use.
Why it matters
The VAT policy directly impacts the business case for public charging networks and may slow adoption among drivers reliant on public infrastructure. CPOs and local authorities planning rollouts face continued uncertainty over pricing competitiveness versus home charging.