Thinking about an EV? Here’s the truth about charging in the UK.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are more popular than ever, with sales rising and a growing second-hand market making them more accessible. But one of the biggest questions potential buyers have is about charging - how easy is it to keep an EV topped up, and will the UK’s infrastructure support everyday driving?
The good news is that the charging network has expanded significantly and continues to grow at pace. While there are still areas for improvement, particularly in more rural locations, the reality is that for most drivers, charging an EV is becoming more convenient and accessible. If you’re thinking about making the switch, here’s what you need to know.
1. The network is expanding fast
As of February 2025, the UK boasts 75,675 public charging points, marking a substantial 32% increase from the previous year. In 2024 alone, over 20,000 new chargers were added, a 28% increase on 2023. The government and private sector are investing heavily in the network, particularly in rapid and ultra-rapid chargers along key routes.
2. Rapid charging is improving
While early EV adopters often faced long waits at charging stations, the situation is improving. Ultra-rapid chargers, capable of delivering 150kW or more, have seen a remarkable 74% increase since February 2024 – there are now over 15,000 of them, with major providers like Gridserve, Ionity, and InstaVolt continuing to roll out more. Many of these can add 100+ miles of range in under 20 minutes, making long journeys far more convenient.
3. Urban areas are leading the charge
Urban regions, particularly London, have experienced notable growth in charging infrastructure. London now offers 250 charging devices per 100,000 residents, significantly higher than the UK average of 108 per 100,000. This dense network ensures that city dwellers have ready access to charging facilities, often within a short distance from their homes or workplaces. For those living in cities, charging infrastructure is arguably better than petrol stations, with chargers at supermarkets, gyms, car parks, and even streetlights. If you live in an urban area, you’re rarely more than a few minutes away from a public charger.
4. Rural ‘cold spots’ are being reduced.
While urban areas are well-equipped, efforts are underway to enhance charging infrastructure in rural locations. In 2024, the number of charging devices in rural areas increased by 45%, adding 2,974 devices. This expansion aimed to reduce charging "cold spots" and ensure that EV drivers in less populated regions have reliable access to charging facilities. In very rural locations, chargers can still be a bit more spread out, so if you’re planning a trip to the remotest parts of Scotland, rural Wales, or deep into Cornwall, you may need to plan ahead and be prepared for some longer waits at peak times. That said, for day-to-day driving, most of the UK is well covered.
5. Charging at home is easier, but not essential
Around 80% of EV owners charge at home, but what if you don’t have a driveway? Solutions like on-street charging, workplace schemes, and destination chargers (at supermarkets, gyms, and retail parks) are making it easier for those without home charging to own an EV. Over 14,000 lamppost chargers have been installed, and companies like Ubitricity and Connected Kerb are expanding these solutions further.
6. Contactless payment is becoming standard
In the past, EV drivers needed multiple apps or RFID cards to access different networks. However, new regulations mean that all new rapid chargers now accept contactless payment by 2024, and roaming agreements between networks are improving. This makes charging much simpler for all drivers, including those new to EVs.
7. The grid can handle it
A common worry is whether the UK’s electricity grid can cope with mass EV adoption. While there will be challenges, experts say the grid can handle the transition—with smart charging playing a key role. By charging overnight or during off-peak hours, EVs can help balance the grid rather than strain it.
So while there are still some challenges – rural areas in particular need more chargers, and peak-time demand can create bottlenecks - EV charging in the UK is getting faster, easier, and more reliable every year. For those considering an EV, especially in the second-hand market, the infrastructure is already in place to support day-to-day driving. And with ongoing investment, it’s only going to get better.
If you're thinking about switching to an EV, or changing your existing one, get in touch.