Drivers call for more on-street electric charging points to be installed as local elections begin
Drivers have expressed their upset and frustration with the lack of on-street electric vehicle charging areas with motorists calling on the Government to intervene.
Research by carmaker Vauxhall found that only 10 per cent of drivers were happy with the number of on-street charging points.
The data revealed that only 25 per cent of motorists noticed issues about charging infrastructure in political manifestos.
However, only 30 per cent of respondents stated that motorists who own or want to own an EV are supported by their local council, with numbers noticeably lower outside of London.
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Only 25 per cent of motorists noticed issues about charging infrastructure in political manifestos
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Recent figures found that in London it holds up to 60 per cent of the UK’s on-street chargers with wider regions falling behind.
Despite the Government adding nearly 60,000 charge points across the UK, drivers have demanded for there to be more targeted support for on-street parking.
James Taylor, managing director, Vauxhall, said: “Electric vehicle charging infrastructure is just one of many concerns that should be discussed in great detail ahead of this year’s local and mayoral elections.
“While recent figures show charge point numbers are increasing, our latest research highlights how drivers are increasingly reliant on their Local Authorities to make sure infrastructure needs are being met.”
Taylor added that it’s hoped the initiative by the car brand will help local councils listen to drivers who are reliant on on-street charging.
London was found to be the only region of the country where the majority of motorists (60 per cent) thought EV drivers were supported by their local council.
The capital was also revealed to be the only area where over 50 per cent of drivers noticed issues around EV infrastructure playing a role in political campaigning ahead of local elections.
This was particularly prominent as the Mayoral elections get underway.
Last week, Vauxhall owner Carlos Tavares, attacked the Zero Emission Vehicle mandate which orders manufacturers to have a minimum percentage of sales be electric.
He described the scheme as being “terrible for the UK”, as it restricts the sale of petrol and diesel cars over the coming years.
He warned that brands would be forced to cut prices of new EVs to unprofitable levels in a bid to meet the new regulations.
The latest stats from SMMT found that the industry is already “well committed” to a mass transition, with more factories making new electric cars to help meet the steep 22 per cent emissions target this year.
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Vauxhall data shows London has the most on-street chargers
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Data also recorded how at least one in 40 vehicles on UK roads are now zero emission with more charging points needed.
