A survey has found that 42% of people expect to drive an electric vehicle in the next five years, equivalent to more than 16 million additional EVs on the UK’s roads by 2025.
The joint study by the pub chain Marston’s and charging network Osprey, which questioned a representative survey of 2,001 UK adults, discovered that the figure is 73% in the 18 to 34 age bracket.
According to the research, the biggest concerns with public charging infrastructure are the number of public charging points and their availability (48%) as well as the length of time it takes to charge a vehicle (43%).
A total of 59% surveyed would prefer to use rapid public charging infrastructure compared to other charging speeds available, while 36% would be encouraged to use public EV charging if there were good quality food and drink facilities at sites.
Meanwhile, Marston’s has installed the 100th rapid EV charging site in its roll-out with Osprey which began in November 2018.
The project, which is due to be completed in 2022, will see Osprey install 400 rapid EV chargers at 200 Marston’s locations around the UK.
They are compatible with every EV on the market and can provide 80 miles of charge in 30 minutes, depending on the battery.
Ian Johnston, CEO of Osprey, said, “With the ban on the sales of new petrol and diesel cars less than 10 years away, it’s crucial to support EV drivers with the infrastructure that they want – rapid, convenient and accessible to all.
“Our partnership with Marston’s will continue to meet the needs of EV drivers and allow them to enjoy great food and drink facilities while they top up.”
Andy Kershaw, head of property at Marston’s added, “The Marston’s 100th rapid charging site installation represents a significant milestone towards our goal to become the UK’s most environmentally efficient pub business.
“The support and commitment of our infrastructure delivery and operating partner, Osprey, has been crucial to achieving this nationally, without disruption to our day-to-day operations.”
