AA urges more rural EV chargers, reveals new UK rates

In the latest update from the AA’s EV Recharge Report for August, electric vehicle (EV) drivers are facing a slight rise in flat-rate costs for both fast and rapid charging speeds. The report also emphasises the pressing need for a more concentrated effort on rural charging infrastructure, as data reveals that only 14.9% of charge points in England are situated in rural areas.

According to the report, the average prices at fast chargers increased by 2 pence last month, while rapid chargers saw a one penny increment in flat rates over the summer holiday period. On the other hand, peak rates for slow charging at lampposts experienced a decrease of one penny. Meanwhile, all other prices have remained stable for the past three months.

For drivers willing to seek out cheaper ultra-rapid chargers, they could potentially save an impressive 24% during peak hours and 34% during off-peak hours when compared to using an average flat-rate charger.

Jack Cousens, head of roads policy at the AA, expressed, “EV drivers travelling across the country this summer may have noticed the recent uptick in prices. However, worries about queues forming at popular charging points did not materialise as most drivers were able to charge and go hassle-free.

“Even with the slight price increase, there are significant savings to be made. By strategically planning stops at ultra-rapid chargers during off-peak times, drivers could potentially save up to £10 in comparison to using a flat-rate alternative.”

The AA also highlighted the urgent need for more attention from the government and charging companies towards rural communities. Recent statistics from the Department for Transport indicate a mere 14.9% of charging points are located in rural areas, despite a notable 37% increase in devices between October 2023 (5,992 devices) and July 2024 (8,225 devices).

While efforts have been made to assist the 40% of households without dedicated off-street parking, the AA has underscored the risk of rural communities being left behind in the development of essential national charging infrastructure.

Jack Cousens further added, “Drivers venturing away from bustling urban centres have likely noticed the inadequacy of the charging infrastructure in rural regions. Beyond popular tourist spots, locating a charge point can prove to be a more challenging task.

“In an interesting turn of events, the fictional village of Ambridge is set to unveil its own EV charging hub, complete with a café and potentially even a hairdressers. If a fictional village like The Archers can establish a charging station, then it serves as a reminder that others can certainly turn this into a reality.”

The average prices mentioned in the report represent the pay-as-you-go options without connection fees as of August 21, 2024. Subscriptions for all charge point speeds are available, which could potentially unlock cheaper rates per kWh; however, the rates may vary among providers.

The electric rates are calculated based on adding 80% to a Vauxhall Corsa Electric 50kW, with a WLTP range of 221 miles. On the other hand, petrol calculations are derived from a Vauxhall Corsa 1.2-litre petrol model and an unleaded rate of 142.30ppl.