Parliament Approves New Measures for EV Accessibility

Hello, Champions of Net Zero!

In a significant move towards inclusivity in the electric vehicle (EV) sector, members of the House of Lords have voted in favour of an Opposition-led amendment to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, aimed at safeguarding the interests of drivers with disabilities. This amendment seeks to address the glaring accessibility issues surrounding public electric vehicle charging points, which currently stand at a disheartening statistic: less than 3% of these facilities are deemed fully accessible in the UK.

According to EVA England, an organisation dedicated to advocating for electric vehicle drivers, the accessibility crisis touches not only those with disabilities but affects nearly half of all drivers. Many have reported encountering numerous obstacles within the public charging network, including cumbersome charging cables, narrow parking bays, and payment terminals that are either too high or difficult to operate. These challenges create significant barriers for individuals who rely on accessible infrastructure to charge their vehicles safely and conveniently.

The amendment, introduced by Lord Borwick, passed with a decisive majority of 228 votes to 113, despite the Government’s initial refusal to support it during debates. If enacted into law, this amendment would empower the Government to impose accessibility standards on public electric vehicle charging points in the future, should the industry fail to take adequate measures to ensure that drivers with disabilities can utilise these facilities without undue hardship.

During his address in the chamber, Lord Borwick highlighted the pressing need for change, warning that without appropriate interventions, “disabled people will see no end to the struggle of charging their cars safely and reliably.” His remarks stressed the urgency of the situation, advocating for a more equitable approach as the nation makes the switch to electric vehicles.

Adding her voice to the debate, Crossbench Peer and celebrated Paralympic athlete Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson expressed her enthusiasm for the amendment, stating she was “delighted” it had been proposed. She shared her personal experience, illustrating the real-world implications of inadequate charging infrastructure: “When I tried several times to move to an electric car, it proved impossible. There wasn’t an accessible charging station within at least 30 miles of my house. I was told perhaps I should take someone with me wherever I went to charge it for me.”

Baroness Grey-Thompson poignantly warned that without meaningful change, “disabled people will once again be blamed for not caring about the environment, rather than recognised as being excluded from making the switch because the infrastructure doesn’t work for them.” Her testimony underscores the importance of creating an inclusive environment where all drivers, regardless of ability, can participate in the transition to electric vehicles.

Lord Borwick, who has a background as a transport entrepreneur and accessibility advocate, reinforced the notion that this amendment is rooted in principles of fairness and foresight. He stated, “This is about making sure that as we move to electric driving, no one is left behind, least of all the 1.35 million disabled drivers who already face greater challenges in their daily mobility.” His comments reflect a growing awareness that the shift towards sustainability must also be equitable.

The amendment grants the Government future authority to make existing accessibility standards, known as PAS 1899, legally binding on new public charging points if voluntary compliance by the industry continues to fall short. This proactive approach aims to ensure that accessibility is not an afterthought but rather an integral part of the planning and implementation process for electric vehicle infrastructure.

While the Government has expressed reluctance to accept the amendment in its current form, peers from across the House have recognised the pressing nature of the issue, labelling it “a crisis of access, not a future issue.” This recognition is a critical step towards addressing the immediate needs of disabled motorists and ensuring that the transition to electric vehicles is inclusive for all.

Vicky Edmonds, the CEO of EVA England, remarked on the significance of this moment for drivers with disabilities, stating, “We need to ensure that accessible charging is not left to chance, but is thought about from the very beginning when industry and local authorities are planning, designing, and rolling out charge points. And this amendment does that.” Her comments highlight the necessity of a collaborative approach between industry stakeholders and policymakers to create a network that caters to everyone.

In conclusion, Lord Borwick encapsulated the essence of the amendment, asserting, “This is not an onerous burden on industry, but a prudent and compassionate step to ensure a charging network that works for everyone.” The passage of this amendment signals a vital step towards a more equitable and accessible future for electric vehicle charging, paving the way for a sustainable transition that includes all members of society.

As we navigate the complexities of the electric vehicle landscape, it is imperative that we advocate for solutions that prioritise inclusivity and accessibility. The ongoing discussions and developments surrounding this amendment serve as a reminder that the journey towards a sustainable future must also encompass the needs of those who have historically been sidelined. Together, we can champion the cause of accessibility in the EV sector, ensuring that the transition to a greener tomorrow is truly a collective endeavour.