Freenow calls for more UK taxi EV support despite 70 per cent zero emission trip share
By Eve
Freenow by Lyft reports that roughly 70 per cent of taxi trips in the UK are now completed using electric or zero emission capable vehicles, yet the company's UK general manager Danny O'Gorman is calling for additional government support to overcome barriers. The primary challenge cited is the high upfront cost of EVs for taxi drivers, who rely on their vehicles as core business assets. The appeal comes as the UK works toward its 2050 net zero target.
Why it matters
A 70 per cent zero emission trip share in one major operator's fleet signals strong demand for charging infrastructure in urban taxi hubs, yet persistent cost barriers mean public procurement bodies and charge point operators may need to factor in targeted incentives or depot solutions to sustain fleet electrification at scale.
Source
- Original title
- “Decarbonising the UK’s taxi fleet: A call for more support”
- Published
- 9 March 2026 (date approximate)
- Updated
- 22 September 2026
In this story
- Topic
- Policy & Market
- Place
- United Kingdom
Related news
Renault and EDF partner to cut EV costs in France through smart charging and bidirectional tech
Renault Group and EDF Group have formed a partnership to make electric vehicles more accessible and affordable for French consumers. The collaboration will focus on smart charging solutions and bidirectional technology, with the companies claiming potential savings equivalent to up to 10,000 km of driving annually for EV owners.
Why it matters
This OEM and utility partnership signals growing integration between vehicle manufacturers and energy providers to address EV affordability barriers. The emphasis on bidirectional charging infrastructure could accelerate V2G deployment opportunities for charge point operators and grid service providers in France.
French presidential candidates propose scrapping energy savings certificates that fund EV purchase grants
Several French presidential candidates, including Bruno Retailleau, Fabien Roussel and Sarah Knafo, are proposing to eliminate or suspend Certificats d'économies d'énergie (CEE) to reduce fuel prices by approximately 15 cents per litre. The CEE mechanism, which legally requires energy suppliers like EDF and TotalEnergies to fund energy reduction actions, has directly financed France's ecological bonus for electric vehicles since July 2025. The French automotive sector has warned this would constitute a major shock to EV adoption.
Why it matters
The proposal threatens a key funding stream for EV purchase incentives in France at a critical market development phase, potentially slowing charging infrastructure demand if EV uptake stalls. CPOs and equipment suppliers should monitor this policy debate closely as any subsidy removal could materially affect deployment forecasts and project economics.
UK Government considers tariffs of up to 40% on Chinese EVs to align with EU trade policy
The UK Government is reportedly considering tariffs of up to 40% on Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers, following meetings between Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin. The move aims to align the UK with the EU's Made in Europe legislation. MG Motors' commercial director warned that such tariffs would drive up consumer prices and potentially increase inflation and interest rates.
Why it matters
Higher EV prices from tariffs could slow fleet electrification and reduce demand for charging infrastructure, while policy alignment with the EU may reshape which vehicle brands dominate the UK market and influence CPO site planning.