The government has an essential role to play in the roll-out of electric charging infrastructure across the capital, according to the FTA.

Speaking after the launch of the London’s Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Taskforce Delivery Plan yesterday (17 June), Denise Beedell, policy manager for vans and urban at the FTA, said that while its members fully support the plan it will require central government to play its part.

“The FTA is pleased to see the mayor of London has committed to ensuring commercial vehicles have access to charging points across London in the near future; an essential step in making his goal of a zero-carbon city by 2050 a reality.

“But charging points are only one piece of the puzzle; FTA is calling on the government to commit to a nationwide programme of upgrades to the grid infrastructure.

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“The costs of increasing grid capacity to accommodate an EV fleet at a depot can run to tens of thousands of pounds. And if the business moves out of the premises, they cannot take the power upgrade with them, meaning that they are effectively investing in an asset that they do not own,” she said.

Beedell added: “While the EV Infrastructure Taskforce Delivery Plan provides clear guidance for planners, energy providers and business, ultimately, the government must play its part too.”

London’s Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Taskforce Delivery Plan commits to:

  • The delivery of London’s first rapid charging hub and support for the roll-out of additional rapid charging hubs in collaboration with the private sector
  • Support shared business charging infrastructure
  • Establishing a new pan-London co-ordination body to facilitate and oversee charge point installation
  • Publication of guidance on charge point installation
  • Promote better standardisation of charge points and vehicles

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