Government falls short of EV charger target – NFDA comment

The RAC has announced that the Government has failed to hit its motorway services high-power EV charger target in 2023.

Sue Robinson, chief executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) which represents car and commercial retailers across the UK commented:

“It is disappointing to see that the Government has missed a deadline it set to have at least six rapid or ultra-rapid chargers at every motorway service station in England by the end of 2023.

“With the ZEV mandate coming into effect from this month, the Government needs to do more to increase confidence in consumers who are looking to switch to electric during this transitionary period.

“In our recent Consumer Attitude Survey, 57 per cent of the respondents who stated they were not interested in purchasing an electric vehicle attributed this to a lack of charging facilities in the UK.

“Whilst the NFDA has welcomed recent announcements by the Government including a £70 million pilot scheme to boost the number of ultra-rapid chargepoints at motorway services, there is still more that needs to be done.

“As we enter the new year, the UK government needs to ensure that it meets targets to meet increasing consumer demand for electric vehicles.

“2024 looks set to be a busy year with the Spring Budget already being announced for 6 March and with an election date yet to be set. NFDA will monitor key developments throughout the year on behalf of its members.”