Daily EV news · UK · 24 July 2026

Vertical Aerospace will lead the ECLiPSE programme, a UK Government backed initiative announced on 24 July 2026 to develop high power charging and thermal management technology for electric aircraft. The programme represents approximately £3.4 million in total investment, of which up to £1.75 million comes from government, and forms part of a £43 million UK Government package for aviation technology. Led by Vertical Aerospace with the University of Bath and InnCat Ltd., ECLiPSE will develop charging and liquid cooling technologies to cut infrastructure costs and enable faster aircraft turnaround.

Why it matters: The project signals emerging demand for high power charging infrastructure beyond ground transport, with potential technology transfer to heavy duty EV applications. Vertical is also in advanced discussions on a further UK Government grant of up to £10 million to anchor its first full production site in the UK, indicating a pipeline of future charging infrastructure requirements.

Scotland has installed over 12,672 public EV charging points, including 601 in South Lanarkshire and 583 in North Lanarkshire, according to figures cited by Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey. The Scottish Government reached its target of 6,000 public charge points in 2024, two years ahead of the 2026 deadline, and maintains the highest number of public charging devices per capita of any UK nation. Charging speeds at these sites range from slow 7 kW units upwards, located at supermarkets, motorway services and residential streets.

Why it matters: The early delivery of Scotland's 6,000 point milestone signals sustained public procurement momentum and a competitive regional market for charge point operators. Per capita leadership may attract further private investment and inform tender strategies across other UK devolved administrations.

A Deloitte study reveals that 48 per cent of UK consumers considering an electric vehicle remain concerned about driving range, while 43 per cent cite charging times as a barrier. The research highlights persistent consumer anxiety despite advances in battery technology and the expansion of fast charging networks across the UK.

Why it matters: Understanding these consumer concerns is critical for charge point operators and network planners, as addressing range anxiety and charging speed perceptions will shape infrastructure investment priorities and site deployment strategies to support continued EV adoption.