The UK’s public electric vehicle (EV) charging network has reached a major milestone — with 86,021 chargepoints now in operation across the country, according to new data released today (Thursday 30 October) by the Department for Transport (DfT) and Zapmap.
(Official source — GOV.UK)
The figures show that the total number of publicly available chargers has increased by 23% in the last 12 months, with an average of one new chargepoint installed every 33 minutes across the UK.
Of the total, 17,356 are rapid or ultra-rapid devices, capable of charging most electric cars to 80% in around 20–40 minutes — an increasingly vital development for commercial users such as taxi, private hire, and delivery drivers.
According to the DfT, there are now 51,251 slow and fast chargers, often found at workplaces, supermarkets, and on-street locations, alongside 17,356 high-speed units typically positioned on major routes and service areas.
Transport Minister Anthony Browne said the continued expansion of the UK’s charging infrastructure demonstrates “our commitment to supporting drivers and businesses as we transition to cleaner, greener transport.”
What this means for the taxi and private hire industry
For taxi and private hire operators, the accelerating rollout of rapid chargers offers clear benefits:
- Reduced downtime: Faster access to reliable charging allows drivers to spend less time off the road.
- Increased earnings potential: More efficient charging means more available working hours per shift.
- Long-distance flexibility: Rapid chargers along key corridors like the M6, M1, and M25 make intercity and airport work more viable for EV fleets.
However, many regional areas still face gaps in availability. Local councils and private networks are being urged to use government support — including the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) fund and Rapid Charging Fund — to help expand provision outside of major cities.
Heading to an airport or returning home from a large event? Consider dmairporttransfers.co.uk — providing door-to-door pre-booked taxi, minibus, and executive transfers across the UK. Reliable, comfortable, and available 24/7.
DM News Commentary:
The UK’s charging growth continues to gain pace — but accessibility, uptime, and fair pricing remain just as important as sheer numbers. For professional drivers making the switch to electric, consistent coverage across motorways, towns, and rural areas will be key. As local authorities race to meet net-zero targets, the real test will be how equitably these chargers are distributed and how easily drivers can rely on them day to day.
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