Government to pilot ten motorway services for rapid charging upgrade
The Government has confirmed it is providing £70m to fund a pilot scheme that will trial rapid EV chargers across the motorway network.
Announced by Transport Secretary Mark Harper during the recent COP28 in Dubai, the project will see rapid EV chargers constructed at ten trial sites at motorway service areas across England.
The pilot scheme will be delivered by National Highways and will gather evidence to design a full fund to support development of a “highly visible and dependable longer-distance charging network”.
The motorway network initiative is part of the government’s rapid charging fund (RCF), which will cover some of the costs involved in upgrading the electricity grid at motorway services to power rapid EV chargers. The aim is to future-proof the trial sites for at least ten years, with respect to upgraded power grid connections.
Transport Secretary Mark Harper said, “This government is on the side of drivers, and working with the private sector to provide robust chargepoint infrastructure is part of our Plan for Drivers, with today’s announcement paving the way for more ultra-rapid chargepoints.
“This £70 million pilot scheme is the starting point and sends a message to consumers and industry that we are investing wisely and rapidly to grow the future of transport in the UK.”
Anthony Browne, the UK Technology and Decarbonisation Minister, added, “This is an important next step in our journey to net zero and demonstrates the government’s commitment to help the private sector expand our charging network.
“The scheme follows our world-leading zero emission vehicle mandate, meaning we are truly supporting drivers and industry in making the switch to electric.”
The government has also launched a ten-week rapid charging fund consultation to gain insights from stakeholders such as chargepoint and motorway service operators and electricity suppliers on where rapid EV chargers are needed and the most optimal way to design the RCF.