Daily EV news · UK · 3 September 2026

Volvo and Polestar owner Geely is developing 1800kW electric vehicle chargers in China that could reach the UK within a few years, enabling five minute charge times. The Chinese automotive group already operates Zeekr brand vehicles capable of 600kW charging with sub 10 minute 10% to 80% charge times on Chinese roads. Geely UK managing director Michael Yang told Autocar that Britain would be prioritised for the technology rollout, as the company targets 5% UK market share and 100,000 annual vehicle sales by 2030.

Why it matters: The planned UK deployment of 1800kW charging infrastructure by a major automotive manufacturer signals potential demand for ultra high power grid connections and site upgrades. Charge point operators may face competitive pressure from OEM backed networks as Chinese brands including Geely, BYD and MG race to deploy faster charging technology in Britain.

E.ON Next has reduced its off peak home EV charging price in the UK to 6.9 pence per kilowatt hour (approximately 9 cents) under its Drive Smart tariff, down from 8 pence. The overnight rate, available from midnight to 6 a.m., is now the cheapest comparable off peak EV charging tariff among major British suppliers, according to The Sun. E.ON Next estimates customers on the Drive Smart tariff could save around £462 (about $624) per year versus the price cap, while those on the Next Drive Fixed tariff, priced at 8.5 pence per kilowatt hour, could save £423 (approximately $571) annually.

Why it matters: Lower home charging costs strengthen the economic case for EV adoption and may reduce pressure on public charging infrastructure as more drivers opt to charge overnight. The competitive pricing among major suppliers signals a maturing residential EV charging market that could influence future tariff structures and grid demand management strategies.

Battery electric vehicles captured 30% of UK new car sales in August, up from 23% a year earlier, making BEVs the single most popular powertrain ahead of hybrids at 29% and petrol at 22%. Sales are running ahead of the pace needed to meet the current 80% EV target by 2030, with 2025 year to date figures already meeting 2026 targets, yet the UK government is considering softening those mandates despite the strong performance.

Why it matters: The disconnect between robust EV uptake and potential policy retreat creates uncertainty for charging infrastructure investors and operators planning network expansion to support the 2030 trajectory. Any weakening of sales targets could slow the business case for large scale charging deployments, even as current demand signals justify continued rollout.