Ford calls for better EV charging provision

7 December 2022

Ford is calling on the government and local councils to improve electrical vehicle (EV) infrastructure, after research found over half (51 per cent) of UK van drivers think current charging provision is not ready to support the switch.

Research carried out by Ford Pro, the manufacturer’s commercial vehicle arm, also found three further current barriers to widespread electric van adoption. More than 75 per cent of those responding cited difficulty finding parking, loading bays or depots with charging facilities, while 30 per cent said there are insufficient fast-charging options available. 29 per cent stated that lack of appropriate charging stations was negatively impacting productivity and profitability. 

Ford, which has developed the all-electric E-Transit van, wants the UK government and local councils to increase their spending commitment, to encourage more businesses and consumers to make the switch ahead of the ban on new petrol and diesel vehicle sales in 2030.

The survey also found clear enthusiasm to change, as well as an awareness of electrification’s benefits. Some 56 per cent of respondents said that EVs could improve productivity via lower running costs, and 18 per cent welcomed the ability to monitor any required maintenance.

The E-Transit is exempt from London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone and congestion charge payments, which could save businesses £27.50 per day compared against running diesel vans. It is also exempt from Vehicle Excise Duty until April 2025. 

Photo: Ford of Europe