All newly installed rapid and higher powered chargepoints should accept one-off contactless payments without the need for a subscription by 2020, the government has said.
And it is prepared to “intervene” if the electric car charging industry ignores this demand.
“It is crucial there are easy payment methods available to improve electric vehicle drivers’ experiences and give drivers choice,” said future of mobility minister Michael Ellis.
“This will help even more people enjoy the benefits electric vehicles bring and speed up our journey to a zero-emission future.”
The government is committed to allowing electric vehicle owners to use ANY public charge point through a SINGLE payment method, without requiring multiple subscriptions, smartphone apps or membership cards.
The UK’s largest public charging network has already responded and will offer contactless payments on all new installations.
Charge point revolution
Last week, the government announced that it will invest £37 million in the electric vehicle charge point infrastructure, as it seeks to “revolutionise the experience” for the increasing number of EV drivers on UK roads.
Twelve projects will share the funding to support the creation of innovations including wireless charging. EVs of the future could charge without the need to use a cable.
Other projects include installing charge points in car parks to allow for mass charging overnight, using Virgin Media’s infrastructure to better share information on charging progress and parking spaces, and a “cutting edge’ storage project that will deliver semi-rapid charging without the need for costly substation upgrades.
‘A net zero economy’
Speaking about today’s announcement, business and industry minister Andrew Stephenson said: “Initiatives like this are essential as we move towards a net zero economy, making it easier than ever for people to own and use electric vehicles.
“Investing in batteries, technology and infrastructure through our modern Industrial Strategy and Faraday battery challenge will ensure the UK leads the world in the global transition away from fossil fuels while supporting the future of our automotive industry.