As electric vehicle (EV) adoption continues to accelerate, 2024 marked a record-breaking year for charging infrastructure in the UK. According to the latest data from Zapmap, over 20,000 new public charge points were installed across the country, bringing the total to 73,699 - a 38% year-on-year increase. This rapid expansion underscores the nation’s commitment to making EV ownership more accessible and convenient than ever.
The growth in ultra-rapid chargers (150kW+) has been phenomenal, with installations increasing by 84% since the end of 2023. These chargers, now found in motorway service areas, retail parks, and even farm shops, cater to drivers seeking quick top-ups during longer journeys. With more than 7,000 ultra-rapid chargers and 537 charging hubs (featuring six or more 50kW chargers), the UK is making significant strides in supporting en-route charging.
For those who charge while they shop, dine, or relax, 12,000 new destination chargers have been added at hotels, restaurants, and leisure spots nationwide. On-street charging, crucial for EV drivers without off-street parking, has also grown. However, 72% of these chargers remain concentrated in Greater London, highlighting the need for more equitable regional distribution—a goal the LEVI (Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure) initiative aims to address in 2025.
Nine out of 12 UK regions now boast over 1,000 50kW+ chargers, with Wales and the North West making significant gains. Northern Ireland, however, continues to face challenges, reflecting the uneven pace of infrastructure development across the UK.
The surge in charging infrastructure aligns with record-breaking EV sales in 2024. More than 380,000 pure-electric carswere sold last year, representing 19% of all new car sales. The total number of pure-electric vehicles on UK roads now exceeds 1.36 million, a 39% increase compared to the previous year.
Zapmap’s annual driver survey revealed that 87% of EV drivers are satisfied with their experience, with fewer than 3%considering a return to petrol or diesel vehicles. While 51% of drivers use public chargers monthly, concerns around reliability persist. Encouragingly, 61% of drivers believe public infrastructure improved in 2024, and over 2.5 million charge sessions were completed in a single month—a testament to growing reliability and accessibility.
As Melanie Shufflebotham, Co-founder & COO at Zapmap, noted:
“The progress in 2024 has been remarkable, particularly in en-route charging. With new regulations, LEVI-funded projects, and the ZEV mandate providing clear guidance, 2025 promises even greater strides in making EV charging accessible, reliable, and equitable for all UK drivers.”
At EVC Solutions, we’re proud to play a part in this incredible journey, providing cutting-edge EV charging solutions for businesses, fleets, and public spaces. With infrastructure expanding at a record pace, there’s never been a better time to invest in the EV future.
Ready to see what's possible? Contact EVC Solutions today and join the journey to a cleaner, greener, and more confident driving experience.
