A lack of on-street charging is preventing EV uptake, new survey

Charge point infrastructure is the main barrier preventing electric vehicle (EV) uptake, according to a survey conducted by facilities management company Mitie. 

The survey revealed that the move to an EV fleet has been well received by virtually all of Mitie’s employees, with 91% saying they’re glad they switched. 

Around 90% also agreed that they would recommend EVs to their friends, family and colleagues. 

Mitie employees who are currently on the waiting list for an EV were also asked about their thoughts on switching to an EV. 

63% said they had reservations about switching to an EV, with the main reason being a concern over charge-point infrastructure.

When asked what they like about their EV, the drivers said financial savings came top of the list, closely followed by reducing their impact on the environment.

However, despite the positive feedback, the survey revealed that there is still plenty of room for improvement. 

Half (48%) of the EV drivers highlighted that issues with public charging, such as a lack of charge points in areas where there’s no off-street parking and problems finding rapid chargers, are a concern.

Simon King, director of sustainability and social value, Mitie, said: ‘It’s fantastic to hear that the feedback from our EV drivers has been overwhelmingly positive, with so many colleagues recommending others switch too.

‘However, what these findings demonstrate once again is that charge point availability remains a barrier for many.

‘With charging infrastructure receiving just a fraction of the investment that is spent on our road network, we now need a national approach with more investment from Government and local authorities — especially for communal and on-street parking.

‘With our ambitious fleet transition plan ahead, these findings will be key for us to not only accelerate our own EV strategy but also share expertise and guidance to help even more businesses that are looking to make the switch.’

Photo Credit – Pixabay