Local authorities in the Midlands are set to introduce more than 16,000 new EV chargers over the next few weeks with the help of £40m in government investment.
In total, 13 local authorities across the region have received £40.8m from the Local EV Infrastructure (LEVI) Fund to boost charging infrastructure in cities, towns and rural areas.
The area already has more than 10,000 public chargers available but the new project, supported by Midlands Connect, will provide many more drivers with easy access to charging near their home, helping to drive EV take-up among those without driveways.
Councillor Marc Bayliss, Worcestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said, “I’m pleased that Worcestershire, alongside other local authorities, has been successful in this bid for significant funding towards boosting electric vehicle infrastructure.
“It’s hoped, that installing more public charge points, will not only support those who already have an electric vehicle, but also encourage others to make the move towards purchasing one.”
The government said the new charge points will boost charging infrastructure across the Midlands, ensuring that EV owners and those looking to switch can drive with the confidence they will always be close to a charge point.
Maria Machancoses, CEO of Midlands Connect, said, “We are delighted that our collaboration with local authorities has resulted in a significant funding boost for electric vehicle infrastructure across the region.
“This is a great step in moving towards a reliable electric vehicle charging infrastructure network across the Midlands, which will become increasingly important as we move closer to the 2035 ban on diesel and petrol vehicles.
“We will continue to work with local authorities to accelerate the rollout of electric vehicle infrastructure across the Midlands.”
