Policy & Market
Stories
12 October 2026
European Union edition · China edition
EU to cap Chinese hybrid imports at 350,000 vehicles per year from December
The European Commission has confirmed a quota limiting Chinese hybrid electric vehicle imports to 350,000 units annually, down from an expected 800,000 battery and plug-in hybrids this year. The measure, agreed in Beijing last week and enforceable from December under WTO safeguard rules, aims to halve China's EU market share from 6% to 3% over a four year period. Volkswagen's leadership has backed the plan to support domestic manufacturing.
Why it matters
The quota will reshape EV supply chains and may accelerate local manufacturing investment by Chinese OEMs seeking to maintain EU sales, directly affecting charging infrastructure planning as fleet composition shifts. CPOs and site hosts should anticipate changes in vehicle mix and charging demand patterns as the policy takes effect.
11 October 2026
Australia edition · UK edition
Australian energy regulator backs network-funded kerbside EV charger rollout
The Australian Energy Market Commission has granted preliminary approval for a plan to install 14,000 kerbside EV chargers on power poles in underserved areas, funded through household electricity bills. Network operators have pushed the proposal for years, arguing it will address charging black spots in major cities where private deployment is not commercially viable.
Why it matters
The decision creates a regulated utility-led procurement pathway for thousands of charge points in Australia, potentially opening new installation and equipment supply opportunities in areas private CPOs have avoided. The funding model through consumer bills removes commercial risk for network operators entering the charging market.
UK cuts home charging VAT to 0% but leaves public charging at 20%, widening driveway divide
From 1 October, domestic electricity VAT in the UK dropped to 0%, cutting home EV charging costs by an estimated £40 per year for drivers with off street parking. Public charging remains subject to 20% VAT, prompting char.gy CEO John Lewis to call the disparity unfair and urge Labour to reduce public charging costs. The policy change, linked to Andy Burnham's initiatives, has been criticised for widening the so called driveway divide between EV owners with and without private parking.
Why it matters
The VAT gap between home and public charging may slow uptake among drivers reliant on public infrastructure, pressuring charge point operators to absorb cost differences or risk losing customers. Policymakers and CPOs face renewed calls to level the playing field, which could influence future subsidy design and site economics for on street and destination charging.
10 October 2026
UK allows pavement cable gullies for home EV charging from 21 October but excludes conservation areas
From 21 October, homeowners and renters in England can install cross pavement cable solutions, such as gullies, to connect home chargers to cars parked on street without traditional planning permission, enabling them to access 0% VAT domestic electricity rates instead of the 20% rate on public chargers. The Prime Minister has cut domestic electricity VAT from 5% to 0%, saving driveway owners up to £40 per year. However, residents in around 10,000 conservation areas, affecting as many as 3.5 million people, will still require full planning permission and cannot use the simplified process.
Why it matters
The pavement gully rule removes a major barrier for home charging installations in streets without driveways, potentially expanding the addressable market for residential charge point operators. The conservation area exclusion leaves a significant segment of urban residents dependent on costlier public charging infrastructure, sustaining demand for on street and destination charging networks.
9 October 2026
France edition · UK edition · European Union edition · South Korea edition
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.
UK ZEHID programme reports 172 electric HGVs have covered 3.6 million kilometres, but grid connection remains key barrier
The UK Government's Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator (ZEHID) programme, backed by over £200 million and run with Innovate UK, has published its annual report showing 172 funded battery electric trucks across 35 operators have travelled 3.6 million kilometres and carried 550,000 tonnes of cargo, cutting 4,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions. Three projects within ZEHID (Electric Freightway, eFreight 2030 and ZENFreight) are now in live commercial operation with trucks from six manufacturers, though a fourth hydrogen focused project, HyHAUL, was cancelled last year. The report identifies charging infrastructure as the main bottleneck, with grid connection times and costs varying significantly, while the UK still lags behind countries such as Germany in eHGV market share.
Why it matters
For charge point operators and infrastructure developers, the report confirms that grid connection challenges remain the primary constraint on scaling depot charging for heavy goods vehicles, a segment requiring high power installations. With over £200 million in government backing and 35 operators now running electric HGVs commercially, the programme signals growing demand for megawatt scale charging solutions despite current grid barriers.
Euro 7 emissions rules may force UK fleets to choose between compliance and faster EV switch, warns Dawsongroup
The UK Government is consulting on adopting Euro 7 emissions standards, which take effect from November 2026 for new light commercial vehicle models and May 2028 for heavy goods vehicles. The rules regulate particulates from brake and tyre wear as well as exhaust emissions, extend compliance periods to ten years or 200,000 kilometres (double the current requirement), and mandate onboard monitoring systems for real time emissions tracking. Simon Ridley, managing director at Dawsongroup vans, said the timing presents a difficult choice for fleet operators already under pressure, potentially forcing them to decide between meeting new compliance standards or accelerating their transition to electric vans.
Why it matters
Fleet operators facing Euro 7 compliance costs may accelerate electric van procurement instead, potentially driving demand for charging infrastructure at depot and destination sites. The extended compliance period and monitoring requirements could make diesel and petrol LCVs less attractive compared to electric alternatives, influencing the scale and timing of fleet electrification projects across the UK market.
South Korea unveils 747 billion dollar green industrial strategy with full transport electrification
South Korea's Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment has announced a KRW1,000 trillion (US$747 billion) Korean Green Transformation industrial strategy, presented at a national briefing on 7 October in Seoul. The plan commits to electrifying all transportation, including public buses, motorcycles, construction equipment, ports and vessels, with reformed EV subsidies accounting for local renewable energy production. South Korea's registered EV fleet exceeded one million vehicles (1.095 million) as of end June, according to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport.
Why it matters
The 747 billion dollar commitment signals massive procurement opportunities across charging infrastructure for diverse vehicle types, from buses to construction equipment and port machinery. Regional initiatives like Jeju's 2035 full electrification target will require extensive charging networks, creating near term tendering activity for CPOs and equipment suppliers.
EU reportedly nearing deal to ease 2035 petrol car phase out despite climate targets
The European Union is close to striking a deal that would allow automakers to produce more combustion engine vehicles, potentially weakening its 2035 target to phase out new petrol car sales. The move comes despite record heat waves that killed 35,000 people across Europe this summer and the bloc's stated goals of 55% emissions reductions by 2030 and climate neutrality by 2050. The article argues this approach leaves European manufacturers unprepared to compete with China, which is advancing electric vehicle solutions.
Why it matters
Any relaxation of the 2035 combustion engine ban could slow EV infrastructure investment and procurement timelines across the EU, as automakers may delay electrification plans. For charge point operators, policy uncertainty around fleet transition schedules complicates long term site planning and revenue forecasting.
8 October 2026
Australia edition · UK edition · India edition · US edition · Global edition · European Union edition · China edition
Tesla and 12 operators oppose Australian rule allowing power distributors to own EV chargers
A coalition including Tesla, Evie Networks, AGL Energy and Master Electricians Australia has written to oppose a draft rule by Australia's energy market regulator that would permit power distribution networks such as Ausgrid and CitiPower to install and operate public EV chargers, with costs passed to consumers via electricity bills. The initial trial covers 14,000 curbside chargers. The coalition supports EV infrastructure but rejects network ownership funded through bills, arguing the regulator has not established the case for this model.
Why it matters
The rule change could reshape Australia's charging market by allowing regulated utilities to compete directly with private operators, potentially altering procurement dynamics and funding structures. For CPOs and contractors, network ownership may limit commercial opportunities if infrastructure deployment shifts to monopoly distributors rather than competitive tender.
UK Government weighs tariffs on Chinese EVs as Burnham prepares EU talks on Made in Europe rules
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds has asked officials to examine potential tariffs on Chinese electric vehicle imports, according to reports in the Daily Telegraph, The Times and Financial Times. Prime Minister Andy Burnham is considering the move ahead of meetings with EU leaders, as the UK seeks inclusion in the EU's Made in Europe programme to avoid trade barriers when the rules are debated at year end. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has warned that exclusion from Made in Europe provisions would deny UK built vehicles access to EU incentives and member state procurement, putting domestic production at a competitive disadvantage in its largest market.
Why it matters
Any tariff regime or exclusion from EU procurement frameworks could reshape the competitive landscape for charge point operators serving fleets, as Chinese EV brands now rank among the UK's most popular purchases. UK manufacturers fear reciprocal Chinese tariffs would reduce domestic vehicle demand and sourcing of EU components, potentially affecting the scale and location of fleet electrification projects.
Conservation areas excluded from new EV pavement charging rules in England
Electric vehicle owners in England's approximately 10,000 conservation areas will not benefit from new permitted development rights allowing charging cables to cross pavements without planning permission, following a late change to legislation coming into force on 21 October. The Times reports these areas are home to around 6.8 million people, with an estimated 3.4 million without driveways. Cross pavement charging solutions in conservation areas will still require planning permission, while residents elsewhere in England can install domestic EV chargepoints and use pavement embedded cable channels without prior approval.
Why it matters
The exclusion creates a two tier regulatory landscape for residential charging deployment, potentially slowing infrastructure rollout in historic urban centres where off street parking is often scarce. Charge point operators and local authorities will need to navigate separate planning processes for conservation area installations, adding cost and complexity to projects targeting on street charging demand.
India joins US-led 14-economy bloc to tackle excess capacity in EVs and batteries
India has signed a joint ministerial statement with the US and 13 other economies to address structural excess capacity in five manufacturing sectors, including electric vehicles and batteries, alongside chemicals, foundational semiconductors and solar panels. The initiative, formalised on Wednesday in Washington during an OECD Trade Committee meeting, commits signatories to establish dedicated sectoral platforms and meet at technical level before December 2026 to draft terms of reference and exchange non-confidential data on production imbalances. Other signatories include Argentina, Australia, Canada, the EU, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Poland, Türkiye and the UK.
Why it matters
The bloc's focus on EV and battery overcapacity signals potential trade measures or policy shifts that could reshape global supply chains, affecting procurement costs and vendor availability for charging infrastructure operators. India's participation may influence domestic manufacturing incentives and import dynamics for EV charging equipment and battery storage systems.
Burnham may raise Chinese EV tariffs with EU as Jaecoo 7 tops UK sales
Prime Minister Andy Burnham is expected to discuss tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles with EU counterparts, meeting German Chancellor Friedrich Merz today ahead of a UK and EU summit next month. The Telegraph reports the EU will emphasise the importance of such tariffs. A Chinese vehicle, the Jaecoo 7, was the UK's best selling car in September with almost 11,000 sales.
Why it matters
Tariffs on Chinese EVs could reshape procurement costs and competitive dynamics for UK charge point operators, particularly if alignment with EU policy affects vehicle availability or pricing for fleet electrification projects.
7 October 2026
US edition · UK edition · India edition
California enacts laws to streamline EV charging projects, offer EV purchase subsidies and promote electric trucking
Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation to accelerate California's EV transition, including the MyFirstEV programme offering instant rebates of up to $3,500 for new EVs and up to $1,750 for used vehicles, backed by a $135.5 million state investment matched by automakers. The package forms part of a $600 million investment funded through Cap and Invest revenue and smog abatement fees, alongside existing schemes such as Clean Cars 4 All, the Clean Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project, and the Carl Moyer Programme. The measures follow the federal government's rollback of transport electrification policies and emissions regulations.
Why it matters
California's policy push signals sustained state level demand for charging infrastructure and fleet electrification despite federal policy shifts, creating procurement opportunities for CPOs and suppliers serving the state's expanding EV market. The combined $600 million investment and automaker matching funds underpin long term infrastructure buildout requirements across consumer and commercial segments.
Associated Asphalt warns UK roads may not cope with heavier electric HGVs as fleet electrification accelerates
Associated Asphalt has raised concerns about the UK road network's readiness for electric HGVs, which can weigh two to three tonnes more than diesel equivalents due to battery packs. More than 1,000 zero emission HGVs are now registered in the UK, with registrations up 170.5% in 2025, ahead of government mandates phasing out non zero emission HGVs up to 26 tonnes from 2035 and all new HGVs from 2040. The company warns that increased axle loads risk accelerated road wear, including structural damage, rutting and potholes, citing US research in New York that estimates heavier electric trucks could increase annual road and bridge repair costs.
Why it matters
Depot operators and fleet managers planning charging infrastructure for electric HGVs may face additional site preparation costs if local road access requires reinforcement to handle heavier vehicles. Procurement teams evaluating electric HGV tenders should factor in potential weight related infrastructure upgrades alongside charging installation budgets.
Delhi study says EV rollout must be segmented by vehicle type, with CNG playing transitional role
A study by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) argues that Delhi's air pollution strategy cannot rely on electric vehicles alone and must be tailored to different vehicle categories, usage patterns and existing infrastructure. Transport contributes 39 per cent of Delhi's PM2.5 emissions, 19 per cent of PM10 emissions and 81 per cent of nitrogen oxide emissions, according to the study reported by Jagran. TERI assessed infrastructure in nine locations and found Delhi has the strongest CNG network among them and ranks alongside Bengaluru for EV infrastructure readiness.
Why it matters
The findings suggest procurement and deployment strategies for charging infrastructure in Delhi must account for segmented rollout timelines, with two wheelers and three wheelers prioritised for electrification while CNG retains a role in other categories. The study's recognition of Delhi's relatively strong EV infrastructure position may support business cases for further charge point investment in the capital.
6 October 2026
Australia edition · UK edition
Tesla and Australian power retailers oppose grid operator EV charger rollout funded by household bills
Tesla, AGL, EnergyAustralia, Engie and private charge point operators including Evie Networks have written to local authorities opposing a plan that would allow power distributors to install 14,000 EV chargers on poles in regional and underserved areas, recovering 70 per cent of costs through regulated charges on all electricity bills. The Australian Energy Market Commission has given preliminary approval for the trial, which comes as EVs now represent one in four new vehicle sales in Australia. The industry coalition warns the scheme risks higher household costs for uncertain benefits.
Why it matters
The dispute highlights a fundamental tension over who should fund public charging infrastructure and whether regulated monopolies or competitive private operators should lead the rollout. For CPOs and procurement teams, the outcome will shape market access, competitive dynamics and the viability of commercial charging projects in regional Australia.
UK councils issue 9.6 million Clean Air Zone fines since 2019
Freedom of Information data shows that councils in London, Portsmouth and Bradford have issued more than 9.6 million penalty charge notices for emissions rule breaches between 2019 and 2026. Around 300,000 drivers have received multiple fines under the Ultra Low Emission Zone and Clean Air Zone schemes. The figures cover enforcement periods from 2019 to 2026 in London, 2021 to 2026 in Portsmouth, and 2022 to 2026 in Bradford.
Why it matters
The scale of enforcement underlines the regulatory pressure on high emission vehicles in UK urban areas, accelerating fleet electrification timelines for commercial operators and reinforcing the business case for workplace and depot charging infrastructure.
End of the published archive.