Daily EV news · UK · 7 May 2026
EV Charging
UK public EV charging network passes 120,000 chargers with 11% annual growth
Zapmap data for April shows the UK now has 120,388 public EV chargers, up 1,308 net additions during the month and representing 11% year on year growth from 108,819 chargers in April 2025. Ultra rapid chargers at 150 kW and above posted the fastest expansion at 40% annually, reaching 13,346 units capable of charging a typical battery from 20% to 80% in 20 to 30 minutes. The 120,000th charger, operated by RAW Charging, was installed at Lydford Gorge in Devon with a 22 kW Standard Plus unit for long dwell times and a 50 kW Rapid charger.
Why it matters
The 11% annual growth and 40% surge in ultra rapid infrastructure signal sustained procurement momentum across on street, destination and en route segments, offering CPOs and contractors visibility of a maturing, diversified pipeline. The mix of 22 kW destination and 50 kW rapid units at a National Trust site underscores demand for tailored charging solutions that match visitor dwell patterns.
UK hits EV charging infrastructure milestone
Fleet News reports that the UK has reached a significant milestone in its EV charging infrastructure rollout, reflecting continued expansion of the public network. Specific figures were not detailed in the available excerpt.
Why it matters
Progress markers in national charging coverage signal growing confidence for fleet operators and CPOs evaluating network investment, and may influence procurement timelines for new site deployments.
UK reports 120,000 EV chargers but metric shift from charge points distorts year-on-year comparisons
The UK now counts 120,000 electric vehicle chargers, yet the figure reflects a change in reporting methodology from charge points to individual connectors, making direct historical comparisons unreliable. Forecourt Trader highlights that the shift obscures true rollout velocity, as a single charge point with multiple sockets now inflates the headline total. The change complicates assessments of infrastructure growth for operators and policymakers tracking deployment targets.
Why it matters
Procurement teams and charge point operators relying on official statistics must adjust forecasts and benchmarking models to account for the new counting method. The metric change risks masking genuine installation rates, affecting investment decisions and tender planning across the UK market.
Nature study models optimal EV charging placement for West Midlands and North East England
A peer reviewed study published in Nature applies clustering and predictive modelling techniques to identify optimal locations for EV charging infrastructure across the West Midlands and North East regions of the UK. The research aims to support sustainable EV adoption by using data driven methods to guide infrastructure deployment in these two areas.
Why it matters
Procurement teams and charge point operators can use evidence based site selection models to prioritise investment in regions where demand forecasting reduces the risk of underutilised assets. Academic validation of clustering approaches may inform future public tender specifications for regional rollout programmes.
Electric Vehicles
MG S9 PHEV launches as UK's cheapest seven seat hybrid SUV
MG has introduced the S9 PHEV, marketed as the most affordable seven seat hybrid SUV available in the United Kingdom. The plug in hybrid electric vehicle targets families seeking electrified transport with third row seating. The launch adds to MG's expanding PHEV lineup in the British market.
Why it matters
Budget priced PHEVs with family capacity may accelerate home charging demand in residential areas, while competitive pricing could influence fleet procurement strategies for organisations requiring larger electrified vehicles.
Policy & Market
Brighton & Hove targets 6,000 chargepoints by 2040 with 1,650 in next three years
Brighton & Hove City Council will consider a 20 year Electric Vehicle Charging Plan at Cabinet on 14 May, aiming to expand the city's network from more than 500 existing chargepoints to over 6,000 by 2040. The plan includes installing around 1,650 chargepoints in the next three years and a pilot to fit almost 200 pavement gullies for homes without off street parking, funded by £232,000 from the Department for Transport's EV Pavement Channel Grant. The policies were informed by more than 500 public consultation responses last year.
Why it matters
The phased rollout offers a clear procurement pipeline for charge point operators and installers in Brighton & Hove, with near term contracts for 1,650 units and a long term framework to 2040. The pavement gully pilot, backed by DfT funding, signals potential for scaled residential charging solutions in dense urban areas without driveways.