In the fast-evolving world of electric vehicles (EVs), 2023 was a year of remarkable growth, the standout feature being an impressive surge in ultra-rapid chargers and high-power charging hubs across the UK.
At the heart of this growth lies a story of innovation, progress, and the electrifying future of transportation. Data from analysts Zapmap tells this story with numbers that speak volumes.
Picture this: A staggering 45% year-on-year increase in the total number of new public chargers installed in the UK.
That's a substantial leap from the 31% growth witnessed between 2021 and 2022. The journey hit a significant milestone in October when the UK celebrated the installation of over 50,000 public charging points. Just months prior, in February 2023, we'd crossed the 40,000 mark - a testament to the rapid acceleration of our charging infrastructure.
But there's more to this story—2023 saw a surge in the rate of new charger installations. Nearly 1,400 devices added each month, up from 730 per month in 2022. That's an astounding 89% growth rate, underscoring our commitment to delivering convenient and accessible charging solutions.
This tale is part of a larger narrative; the launch of the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate last week and record-breaking sales of new pure-electric cars in the UK, totaling nearly 315,000 units. This represents a 51% increase in the number of EVs on our roads compared to the end of 2022.
And what about high-powered chargers? Their numbers surged by 52% in 2023, reaching nearly 10,500 devices across 5,000 locations by year-end. The majority of this growth came from ultra-rapid chargers, capable of adding approximately 100 miles of range in just 15 minutes. These chargers comprised 46% of high-powered devices nationwide, a significant rise from 20% at the end of 2020.
But here's the twist: The growth isn't just about numbers, it's about the impact, mainly a significant increase in the number of UK charging hubs, featuring more than six rapid or ultra-rapid devices. The count surged by an impressive 145%, rising from 108 at the close of 2022 to 264 by the end of 2023.
These charging hubs aren't just dots on a map; they are strategically positioned near major road networks, offering convenience to EV drivers on their journeys. They can be found in various locations, from retail parks and car parks to service stations and dedicated charging zones, ensuring that wherever your journey takes you, a charging solution is nearby.
But the story must not end there. We need to ensure that everyone has access to EV charging.
In 2023, we witnessed a remarkable 72% increase in low-powered on-street chargers, supporting those without home charging options. While progress varies across regions, the government's £450 million Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) scheme played a significant role, with more exciting developments anticipated in 2024.
This is the continuing story of the EV revolution that is unfolding with each new charge point and every EV on the road.
Send download link to:
