Drivers without access to a driveway could soon save up to £1,500 per year under new rules confirmed by Labour. A new £25 million scheme for local authorities has promised to expand access to street electric car charging in a major boost to those without a driveway.
New cross-pavement technology will allow electric car cables to run underneath pavements. This will allow motorists to connect EV plugs from their home to their vehicle, allowing owners to benefit from cheaper rates. The change will allow drivers to top up their cars for as little as 2p per mile, marking a major boost. Under current rules, only those with driveways have been able to enjoy the cheaper domestic rates, meaning those living in flats and apartments have been paying a lot more.
Labour has claimed the move could boost the UK’s electric car transition, helping drivers save up to £1,500 a year compared to running a petrol or diesel car.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander stressed electric car charging was still a major barrier to adoption, with the new rule set to address some of the problems.
She said: "We are making it easier and cheaper to own an electric vehicle. We know access to charging is a barrier for people thinking of making the switch, so we are tackling that head-on so that everyone - whether or not they have a driveway - can access the benefits of going electric."
Labour has also promised a major update to the signage around electric car charging bays on major roads.
The update will see larger EV charging hubs signposted from major A-roads for the first time, raising awareness of these sites for those unaware of their presence.
The government is also launching a major grant scheme to help businesses install charging points at Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV), van and coach depots.
Labour claims the UK is becoming a market leader in electric car technology, with the country now the largest EV market in Europe.
The UK is also the third-largest EV centre in the world, with over 382,000 electric vehicles sold to motorists in 2024.
AA President Edmund King explained: "There are more public chargers than people realise, but they are often hidden in plain sight. Increasing signs for the public network is vital to help the EV transition as it will create confidence for drivers both now and in the future.
"It is great to see more support for those without off-street parking so that they can also benefit from the EV revolution."
