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DfT launches a consultation on plans to simplify EV charging points

DfT launches a consultation on plans to simplify EV charging points

The Department for Transport (DfT) launched a consultation "The consumer experience at public electric vehicle chargepoints" on February 13 2021 to outline its plans for simplifying the charge point experience for electric vehicle (EV) drivers in the following areas:

  • Making it easier to pay.
  • Opening up chargepoint data.
  • Using a single payment metric.
  • Ensuring a reliable network.

Measures proposed by the DfT include: 

  • Implementing roaming across networks so that consumers can access all public chargepoints with one membership card or smartphone app.
  • Opening up chargepoint data to enable the development of consumer-friendly apps and improve consumer experience.
  • Standardisation to a pence-per-kilowatt hour (kWh) basis to enable a simpler pricing framework for all users.
  • Requiring operators to ensure faults are repaired quickly to provide a minimum 99% reliability across the charging infrastructure, as well as a 24/7 helpline for those who need assistance when struggling to use a chargepoint.

The DfT will also be seeking evidence on accessibility for disabled customers, weatherproofing and lighting and signage. The consultation brief says, “Parliamentary time allowing, we expect to bring in the necessary regulation following this consultation in autumn 2021”.

Jack Cousens, head of roads policy for the AA, said “In simple terms, drivers want charge points to be as easy and simple to use as a fuel pump.

“They don’t want to have a multitude of apps or membership cards, but the ability to simply understand how much it will cost them and pay by card.”

The consultation will run until April 10 2021 and fleets are invited to respond using this online form.

Consultation workshops will also be available throughout the consultation period. If you are interested in attending these events, you can contact consumerofferconsult@olev.gov.uk.

We at Marshall Leasing would like to encourage fleets to take part in the consultation, as charging infrastructure will undoubtedly play a big part in their ability to adapt to electrification. If you would like to find out more about how our expert team can assist with your fleet requirements, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us by emailing info@marshall-leasing.co.uk or calling 01480 414541.

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Marshall Leasing is a trading division of N.I.I.B. Group Ltd a company registered in Northern Ireland under company NI3721, whose registered office is situated at 1 Donegal Square South, BELFAST, BT1 5LR. N.I.I.B. Group Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority