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EVA England, EVA Cymru, EVA Northern Ireland and EVA Scotland have opened a nationwide survey asking all UK drivers to share views on electric vehicle cost, charging infrastructure and readiness to switch. The initiative follows last year's EVA England survey showing 66 per cent of petrol and diesel drivers actively considering an EV, and comes as Government reviews manufacturer sales targets and prepares to introduce eVED tax on electric vehicles from 2028. Findings will be shared with policymakers and stakeholders to shape transport policy on charging infrastructure and EV affordability.

Why it matters: The survey results will provide procurement teams and charge point operators with evidence based insight into driver demand and infrastructure gaps at a time when policy on sales mandates and taxation is under review. Understanding regional attitudes and barriers to adoption can help CPOs prioritise site selection and service design to meet untapped demand.

BEAMA analysis warns that reducing the Zero Emission Vehicle mandate target from 80 percent to 50 percent zero emission car sales by 2030 could result in 1.7 million fewer home charge point sales by 2034, equating to around £1.6bn in lost sales and installations. The trade association says manufacturers have already planned investments approaching £100m based on existing targets, with the weaker trajectory also threatening to slow the rollout of 12GW of flexible grid capacity and increase carbon emissions. The findings respond to options outlined in the UK Government's ZEV mandate review published earlier this month.

Why it matters: Charge point operators and equipment suppliers face potential demand collapse if the mandate is weakened, jeopardising planned capital expenditure and factory jobs. The loss of 12GW of smart charging flexibility would also reduce revenue opportunities from grid services that underpin many CPO business models.

Weakening the Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate by reducing the 2030 zero emission car sales target from 80% to 50% could delay up to £1.56bn in UK home charge point sales and installations by 2034, according to trade association BEAMA. The analysis, following the Government's 14 August review launch, estimates up to 1.7 million fewer home charge point sales and a reduction in flexible EV charging capacity by as much as 12GW by 2034. BEAMA warned that manufacturers had incorporated existing ZEV Mandate targets into investment plans worth approaching £100m, which could now be reviewed.

Why it matters: The potential policy shift threatens to undermine planned infrastructure investments and delay the rollout of smart charging capacity needed to meet the Government's Clean Flexibility Roadmap target of 4.5GW from EV smart charging by 2030. CPOs and charge point manufacturers face uncertainty over demand forecasts and investment commitments tied to the original mandate trajectory.

Battery electric vehicle sales in South Africa grew approximately 230% year on year, according to the latest Naamsa figures, though BEVs still account for less than 1% of the local market. Peter van Binsbergen, writing in a commentary piece, highlights the recent launch of the Charge N3 Roadside ultra-fast charging station at Leeukop farm stall in the Free State as progress in charging infrastructure rollout. He argues that a clear government and industry strategy, alongside expanded charging infrastructure at shopping centres and along highways, is essential to drive higher EV adoption rates in South Africa.

Why it matters: Despite triple digit growth, South Africa's sub 1% BEV market share underscores the chicken and egg challenge facing charge point operators: infrastructure investment depends on adoption, yet adoption hinges on visible, convenient charging networks. The Charge N3 station example signals early corridor buildout, a critical step for CPOs targeting long distance and commercial fleet segments in the region.

The UK government opened a consultation on 14 August to review zero emission vehicle targets, following pressure from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, which reports automakers losing billions of pounds on EV discounts to meet mandates. Current rules require EVs to account for 33% of new car sales in 2026, 80% in 2030 and 100% by 2035, but EV market share is expected to reach only 27.4% by year end. The review proposes four alternatives, including three that would retain the 2035 endpoint but cut the 2030 target to as low as 50%, and a fourth that would keep existing targets with added flexibility.

Why it matters: Any softening of the 2030 target could slow the pace of charging infrastructure rollout required to support fleet electrification, affecting procurement timelines and investment decisions for CPOs planning network expansion. The consultation outcome will shape demand forecasts and the business case for charging projects across the UK market.

The UK government has launched a 10-week consultation running until 23 October 2026 to review the Zero Emission Vehicle mandate, proposing to ease annual electric vehicle sales targets for cars and vans between 2027 and 2035. While the 100% zero-emission target for 2035 remains fixed, the review considers lowering 2030 targets amid industry concerns over market demand and compliance costs. The consultation, conducted jointly by the UK, Scottish, Welsh and Northern Ireland governments, seeks views on whether existing annual targets remain appropriate and on the effectiveness of current compliance flexibilities.

Why it matters: The consultation outcome will directly affect procurement timelines and compliance costs for fleet operators and charge point operators planning infrastructure rollouts to meet original 2030 targets. Any relaxation of interim targets could reduce near-term charging demand forecasts, influencing investment decisions and site development schedules across the UK.

The UK government has opened a review of the Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate, which sets binding electric vehicle sales targets for manufacturers. Carmakers are lobbying for relaxed targets, while EVA England counters that the focus should shift to addressing high charging costs and consumer barriers rather than weakening the mandate.

Why it matters: Any softening of ZEV targets could slow fleet electrification and reduce near term demand for public charging infrastructure. Conversely, if government tackles charging costs and access barriers as EVA England suggests, CPOs may see stronger policy support for network expansion and pricing reform.

Southend City Council has installed new electric vehicle chargers at Alexandra Street Car Park, operated by Zest, replacing previous infrastructure. The deployment is part of the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure programme, one of the largest local charging schemes in the UK, backed by £1.4 million in government funding and Zest investment at no cost to the council. The chargers are now live and support the council's ambition to be a leading green city.

Why it matters: The project demonstrates how LEVI funding enables councils to upgrade public charging infrastructure without capital outlay, with Zest taking the investment risk. For CPOs and installers, it signals ongoing procurement opportunities as councils expand networks under government backed programmes.

Construction materials supplier Tarmac is building a charging network across London and the South East to support five electric HGVs delivering cement, asphalt, aggregates and concrete blocks. The fleet will include four Renault Trucks vehicles and one DAF, with Voltempo supplying infrastructure at four Tarmac sites and a Fleete hub at the Port of Tilbury. A 250kW DC charger at the Paddington concrete plant will enable recharging during unloading, while a Voltempo HyperCharger megawatt system at Northfleet will deliver up to 1MW to one vehicle or dynamically distribute capacity across up to six vehicles. The project is part of the eFREIGHT 2030 consortium and supported by the UK government's Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator programme.

Why it matters: The deployment demonstrates growing demand for megawatt charging infrastructure to support heavy goods vehicle electrification, with Voltempo and Fleete securing contracts for a multi site network. The project offers a commercial model for integrating high power charging into operational logistics, reducing downtime through on site recharging during material handling.

The UK government has launched a consultation to review legally binding electric vehicle sales targets under the ZEV mandate, responding to automotive sector pressure. The Department for Transport, OZEV and the Department for Business and Trade are jointly evaluating whether existing annual manufacturer targets remain appropriate, citing slower than expected consumer demand, energy price increases and international competition. The 2030 phase out of new petrol and diesel cars and the 2035 fully zero emission requirement for all new cars and vans remain in place.

Why it matters: Any softening of annual ZEV sales targets could slow the pace at which fleets electrify and reduce near term demand for public and workplace charging infrastructure. Procurement teams and CPOs planning network expansion will need to monitor whether revised manufacturer obligations alter the volume and timing of EV rollout across the UK market.

The UK has launched a review of its Zero Emission Vehicle mandate, proposing to reduce the 2030 pure electric vehicle sales target from 80% to as low as 50%, with consultation running until late October. Under the current policy, manufacturers must meet rising annual EV quotas starting at 22% in 2024 and reaching 33% in 2026, but the revised target would allow hybrids to make up the remaining 50% of sales. The 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel only cars remains in place.

Why it matters: A lower EV sales mandate could slow the rollout of public and workplace charging infrastructure if fleet electrification timelines are extended, affecting procurement volumes and site development schedules. Conversely, a shift toward hybrids may reduce immediate demand for rapid charging hubs, altering the business case for charge point operators planning network expansion to 2030.

Turntide Technologies has secured UK government grant funding for Project SUPREME, a £17 million matched-funded programme running 18 months to January 2028. The project will automate labour-intensive manufacturing steps for axial flux motors at facilities in Gateshead and Cramlington, Northumberland, aiming to validate the technology for volume production. Axial flux motors offer compact, lightweight designs with higher power density than radial flux alternatives, but have historically faced cost and complexity barriers at scale.

Why it matters: The programme signals public investment in advanced motor manufacturing infrastructure that could lower unit costs and expand supply options for EV and equipment OEMs. Successful automation may open axial flux technology to mid-volume vehicle programmes, widening the competitive landscape for traction motor procurement.

A YouGov poll commissioned by ChargeUK found 34 per cent of UK respondents believe the electric vehicle transition is moving at a good pace, 19 per cent want it sped up, and 37 per cent want it slowed down. Among Labour voters, 41 per cent support the current pace and 27 per cent favour acceleration, versus 21 per cent seeking a slowdown. The findings come as government reportedly considers loosening Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate requirements despite manufacturer calls for flexibility.

Why it matters: Public backing for the current or faster EV rollout strengthens the case for maintaining charging infrastructure investment timelines and ZEV Mandate commitments. Charge point operators and local authorities planning network expansions can cite majority voter support when securing funding or planning consent against political pressure to delay.

More than 40 organisations from the charging, fleet, battery manufacturing and investment sectors have warned the UK Government that changes to the Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate could affect billions of pounds of investment across the automotive and infrastructure supply chain. The current mandate requires 33% of new cars sold in 2026 to be pure electric, rising to 80% by 2030, but the Government is reportedly preparing a consultation on relaxing the framework, potentially reducing the 2030 requirement to as low as 50%. Polling by Savanta for the Climate Barometer Tracker found that 54% of Labour MPs support the planned 2030 phase out of new petrol and diesel car sales, compared with 17% who oppose it.

Why it matters: Any weakening of the ZEV Mandate could slow the rollout of charging infrastructure by reducing certainty around future EV adoption rates, potentially deterring the billions in private investment needed to meet 2030 targets. Charge point operators and infrastructure developers rely on clear policy signals to justify capital expenditure and site acquisition decisions.

UK battery materials firm Integrals Power will supply hundreds of kilos of manganese-rich lithium manganese iron phosphate (LMFP) cathode material for a £2 million, 30 month UK government-funded programme led by Denchi Group through the Battery Innovation Programme. The material, produced at Integrals Power's multi-tonne facility in Milton Keynes, will be used in pouch and cylindrical cells (21700 and 4695 formats) manufactured at the UK Battery Industrialisation Centre in Coventry, then assembled into battery packs at Denchi's Thurso plant for defence and electric vehicle applications. Integrals Power's LMFP has 80% manganese content and delivers up to 20% greater energy density than conventional lithium iron phosphate (LFP) while eliminating reliance on cobalt and nickel.

Why it matters: The project demonstrates UK public investment in domestic battery supply chains and alternative chemistries that reduce dependence on critical minerals, with potential cost and sourcing advantages for EV battery procurement. Higher energy density LMFP could offer fleet operators and charge point operators improved vehicle range without the material cost volatility of nickel and cobalt based cells.

The Malaysian government is considering a levy on every electric vehicle sold to finance public charging infrastructure expansion, according to Business Today. MCA Vice President and Tanjung Piai MP Datuk Seri Dr Wee Jeck Seng has criticised the proposal, arguing that consumers should not pay for infrastructure the government previously committed to deliver. The move has drawn widespread backlash for contradicting efforts to encourage EV adoption whilst raising ownership costs.

Why it matters: The proposed levy could deter EV uptake in Malaysia and signals uncertainty over public funding models for charging infrastructure. Charge point operators and suppliers may face slower market growth if consumer costs rise, whilst the debate highlights ongoing questions about who should bear infrastructure investment responsibility.

Malaysia's investment, trade and industry ministry is examining how to structure a proposed EV levy intended to finance nationwide public charging infrastructure, minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani told reporters at an RHB Bank conference on 5 August 2026. He said MITI has not decided whether to impose the levy directly on the public or on manufacturers, though costs passed to carmakers would likely reach consumers, and emphasised the government must balance subsidies, electricity supply costs from gas and coal generation, and the need for EV and ICE vehicle coexistence.

Why it matters: The levy debate signals Malaysia may shift from subsidy led EV support to user or industry funded charging expansion, directly affecting project finance models and site development timelines for charge point operators. Clarity on levy rates and collection points will shape procurement budgets and revenue assumptions across the Malaysian charging sector.

Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani announced the government is studying a levy on every electric vehicle sold to finance public chargers, citing RM3.3 billion in forgone EV taxes and the shortfall against a 10,000 charge point target by end 2025. As of May 2026, Malaysia had installed 6,416 charge points, including just 240 across Sabah and Sarawak, with a revised target of 30,000 by 2030. The opinion piece argues the proposal misidentifies the problem, noting that energy companies, utilities and specialised operators such as ChargeSini, Gentari by PETRONAS, TNB Electron, Time Charge n Go and Shell Recharge dominate the network, not vehicle manufacturers.

Why it matters: A per-vehicle levy would create a dedicated funding stream for public charging procurement, potentially reshaping tender pipelines and competitive dynamics for CPOs and contractors in Malaysia. The policy debate highlights government frustration with deployment pace and may signal direct public procurement or subsidies that favour established energy and utility operators over automaker-led networks.

On-street charge point operator char.gy will deploy 30 new kerbside EV charge points across Devon in a trial supported by the UK government's Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) Fund, posted 3 August 2026. All units will run on 100% renewable electricity, with lessons from the trial informing the next phase of installations. char.gy operates the UK's fourth largest on-street charging network with over 5,000 public charge points currently in operation.

Why it matters: The trial extends LEVI funded infrastructure into a large rural county, offering procurement teams a model for rolling out kerbside charging beyond urban centres. With the UK reaching around 87,000 public charging points at 45,000 locations by late 2025, the project tests scalable deployment in areas where on-street parking dominates.

UK public charging firm Zest will deploy more than 1,000 chargepoints across three Hertfordshire districts, supported by £1.8 million from the government's LEVI Fund and additional investment from Zest. The 15 year concession covers on-street charging in North Hertfordshire, St Albans and Welwyn Hatfield, with works expected to begin later this year. Zest will fund, operate and maintain the network, prioritising residential areas and underserved communities.

Why it matters: The contract demonstrates how LEVI funding is unlocking large scale on-street rollouts through long term concessions, offering a replicable model for councils seeking to address residential charging gaps. Procurement teams can benchmark the 15 year operate and maintain structure and the blend of public and private capital for similar tenders.

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.

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.

BMW's iX1 and iX2 are now eligible for the maximum £3,750 discount under the UK government's £1.3 billion electric car grant scheme, making BMW the first premium German manufacturer to qualify for the full amount. The iX1 offers up to 318 miles of range and the iX2 up to 282 miles. Since the scheme launched in July 2025, more than 100,000 drivers have used it, with 17 models now qualifying for the full £3,750 grant and others receiving £1,500 off.

Why it matters: The addition of premium German models to the top grant tier signals broader market accessibility and may influence fleet procurement decisions, particularly for corporate buyers seeking prestige brands with strong incentives. The scheme's uptake of over 100,000 vehicles in its first months demonstrates significant demand that charging infrastructure planners and operators must accommodate.

Councillor Gareth Ratcliffe has asked Powys County Council to consider trialling pavement charging channels or gullies in Hay on Wye, allowing residents to run charging cables from their homes to vehicles parked on the highway without creating trip hazards. Redbridge Council in London has already begun piloting such installations with UK government funding. The channels would enable residents to use cheaper domestic electricity tariffs instead of relying on more expensive public charging infrastructure.

Why it matters: Pavement gullies represent a low cost alternative to dedicated on street charge points in areas where residents lack off street parking, potentially reducing the need for public infrastructure investment while expanding home charging access. The approach could influence how local authorities balance residential charging demand with pavement safety obligations.

The Abarth 500e now qualifies for the maximum £3,750 discount under the UK government's £1.3bn electric car grant scheme, bringing the total number of models eligible for the full amount to 15. Other qualifying vehicles include the Alpine A290, Ford Puma Gen-E, Nissan Leaf, and Renault 5 (52kWh), while remaining models receive £1,500 off. More than 100,000 drivers have used the scheme since its launch in July 2025.

Why it matters: The expanding list of grant eligible models, particularly affordable urban EVs like the Abarth 500e with 164 mile range, signals growing consumer incentives that may accelerate fleet electrification and workplace charging demand. CPOs serving retail and commercial sites should monitor uptake patterns as the scheme's £1.3bn budget drives new EV adoption across price segments.

The Fiat 500 Electric now qualifies for the full £3,750 discount under the UK government's £1.3 billion electric car grant scheme, bringing the total number of models eligible for the maximum amount to 12. More than 100,000 drivers have used the scheme since its launch in July 2025, with all other qualifying vehicles receiving a £1,500 discount. The Fiat 500 Electric offers up to 202 miles of range and joins models including the Alpine A290, Citroen e-C5 Aircross Long Range, Ford Puma Gen-E, Kia EV2 Long Range, Nissan Leaf, and Renault 5 (52kWh) on the full discount list.

Why it matters: The expansion of the grant scheme to include popular urban models like the Fiat 500 Electric signals growing government support for accessible EV adoption, which will drive demand for workplace and destination charging infrastructure. With 100,000 drivers already claiming the grant in under a year, charge point operators should anticipate accelerated fleet growth in the small and compact EV segments.

Kapsch TrafficCom's UK and Ireland Sales Director Tim Wray has urged the UK Government to let motorists choose between odometer based and location based pay per mile charging systems. His comments follow ministerial confirmation that UK registered electric vehicles will be charged for overseas mileage under the forthcoming Electric Vehicle Excise Duty framework. The Government stated that excluding overseas driving, which accounts for about 2% of total UK car mileage, would require mandatory location data collection and raise privacy concerns.

Why it matters: The debate over charging system design affects how future road user charging infrastructure will be procured and deployed. For charge point operators and fleet managers, the choice between simple odometer systems and location aware alternatives will shape data requirements, privacy compliance costs and the ability to integrate road pricing with wider transport policy goals.

The UK Government's Electric Car Grant has supported more than 140,000 drivers in its first year, offering up to £3,750 off the cost of a new electric vehicle through a £2 billion scheme. Demand remains strong, with March 2025 recording the highest EV sales volume on record and sales up 35% compared with June last year. The scheme now covers 58 eligible models, and recent Autotrader figures show electric cars are now cheaper to buy on average than petrol models for the first time.

Why it matters: The grant's success in driving 140,000 EV purchases signals sustained growth in the UK's electric vehicle market, which will increase demand for charging infrastructure from CPOs and local authorities. Lower upfront costs and rising EV adoption rates create a stronger business case for expanding public and workplace charging networks.