The motor industry trade body, SMMT, has called for a new watchdog to ensure a fair deal for electric vehicle (EV) drivers. This is part of its seven-point plan, which places consumers at the heart of EV charging.
EV registrations in the UK rose to 200,000 in 2020. Vehicle production has increased faster than the number of available charge points. Despite these figures, barriers remain that slow the shift from petrol and diesel vehicles. Key obstacles include the availability of public charge points and electricity costs, which vary widely and could rise sharply amid the current energy crisis.
SMMT also highlights regional disparities in charge point rollout. The south of England has far more installations than the north. This issue ties directly to the Government’s levelling-up agenda, aimed at reducing the north-south economic divide.
The industry is urging the Government to create a new “Ofcharge” or Office of Charging regulator. This body would monitor the market, enforce minimum standards, and oversee pricing to ensure affordability. SMMT hopes this will boost consumer confidence in EVs. The seven-point plan is timed to influence the Government’s upcoming EV infrastructure strategy.