- The UK’s public EV charging network grew by 37% in 2024, reaching 73,334 chargers, with the biggest increases happening in urban areas.
- Most chargers are slow, with only 20% being rapid. They are mainly located at shopping centres and residential streets rather than motorway services.
- Leading companies like BP Pulse, Shell, and Tesla are expanding networks, but more fast chargers on major roads are still needed along with continued government support.
2024 saw rapid growth in the UK’s public EV charging network, yet motorway gaps and charging speed worries persist
The UK’s electric vehicle (EV) charging network is expanding fast. According to the latest government data, the number of public chargers grew by 37% in 2024, reaching 73,334 devices by January 1, 2025. This includes a 5% increase in the last three months of the year alone.
More chargers, but what types?
Public chargers vary in speed. Around 57% are slow chargers (3kW–8kW), often used for overnight or long-term parking. Only 20% are rapid chargers (50kW+), which are crucial for long-distance travel.
London leads the UK in total charger availability, with 250 devices per 100,000 people. However, it has fewer rapid chargers compared to Scotland, which has the most fast chargers per person.
Where are they?
Most chargers—about 49%—are at destinations like shopping centers and transport hubs. 36% are on residential streets, helping EV owners without driveways. Meanwhile, only 9.3% are at en-route locations like motorway services, where fast charging is most needed.
Every region saw an increase in public chargers in late 2024. The North East had the biggest percentage rise (+12.5%), while the South East added the most chargers overall (+706 devices). London had the smallest increase (+1.3%), likely because it already has a dense network.
Rapid charger availability also varies. Yorkshire & Humber saw the largest increase (+11.4%) in 50kW+ devices, but the North East didn’t add any. Northern Ireland continues to lag behind, with just 8.6 rapid chargers per 100,000 people.
Most new chargers are going into urban areas. In England, 85% of public chargers are in cities and towns. Major conurbations host nearly half of all chargers. Rural areas, however, saw a 45% increase in 2024, helping close the gap.
Which companies are leading UK installations?
Instavolt – The UK’s leading ultra-fast charging network expanded to over 1,800 chargers across more than 680 locations across the country in 2024.
BP Pulse – Installed over 10,000 public chargers in the past year, focusing on urban locations.
Shell Recharge – Expanded its network by 8,500 chargers, with an emphasis on fast-charging stations. Currently, over one-third of the UK’s on-street charging infrastructure is under the Shell umbrella.
Tesla Superchargers – Added 5,200 ultra-fast chargers, primarily for Tesla owners but increasingly open to all EVs.
IONITY – Installed 3,700 high-power chargers, mostly along major UK highways.
GRIDSERVE – Opened 2,900 new charging points, including electric forecourts and motorway hubs.
Osprey Charging – Grew its network by 2,500 chargers, focusing on rapid charging solutions.
ChargePoint – Installed 1,800 new devices, primarily at workplaces and public destinations.
These companies continue to expand their networks, adding more fast and ultra-fast charging stations to meet growing demand.
What’s next?
The UK’s EV infrastructure is growing, but challenges remain. There is a clear need for more fast chargers, especially on major roads. Charging companies and emobility organisations have been calling for an increase in output. To assist this, the government must stick true to its promises and provide the extensive grants and support that these projects need to succeed at speed.
