UK’s Public EV Charging Network Accelerates Rapid Expansion

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The UK’s electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure continues its rapid transformation as it supports the shift to low‑carbon transport. Recent data highlights a surge in new installations, expansion of ultra‑rapid hubs, and increasing regional equity in access, alongside strides toward smarter fleet management.

In the first half of 2025 alone, the UK added 8,670 new public charge points, marking a 27% year‑on‑year increase. These now total over 82,300 devices across more than 40,000 locations. Ultra‑rapid chargers rated 150 kW+ have grown by almost 23%, now outnumbering rapid devices, while 136 new charging hubs defined as sites with six or more rapid or ultra‑rapid units have been established, bringing the total to 673 nationwide. Notably, Scotland and the North West recorded 29% and 21% year‑to‑date growth in high‑powered chargers respectively.

By the end of October 2025, the public charging network had expanded further to 86,798 devices across 44,142 locations, reflecting 22% year‑on‑year growth. Rapid and ultra‑rapid devices now number 17,734 across 6,582 sites. Charging hubs increased by 31% since the end of 2024, reaching 705 nationwide.

The first quarter of 2025 also delivered strong momentum, with 3,141 charge points added, a 29% increase. Ultra‑rapid device installations surged nearly 66%, now accounting for 22% of all installations. Charging hubs grew to 586, while lower‑powered chargers (sub‑50 kW) continue to represent approximately 80% of the total infrastructure.

Looking at annual data, 2024 saw a record installation of over 20,000 new charge points, lifting the total to 73,699 a 38% increase year‑on‑year. Growth was particularly strong in ultra‑rapid devices, which rose by 84%, with more than 7,000 such chargers now in place alongside over 14,000 rapid chargers. Charging hubs more than doubled from 264 to 537.

By early 2025, the total number of public devices surpassed 73,000, a 37% rise compared to January 2024. Rapid and ultra‑rapid devices made up about 20% (14,448 units). Slow chargers (3–8 kW) remained dominant, comprising 57% of the total, while destination and on‑street installations accounted for 49% and 36% respectively. London led in provision with about 250 devices per 100,000 population.

This growth trajectory pushes the UK closer to its 2030 target of 300,000 public charge points, with the National Audit Office confirming the country is on track to meet this goal. However, it warned that regional disparities remain a challenge.

These developments signal meaningful progress toward a comprehensive charging ecosystem. The increasing prevalence of ultra‑rapid hubs enhances long‑distance EV usability, while the build‑out of destinations and on‑street chargers improves accessibility for everyday users. Nevertheless, regional variation and the need for broader infrastructure in underserved areas continue to pose obstacles.

What this means:
This rapid infrastructure expansion is vital to reduce ‘charging anxiety’, support EV adoption, and lower transport emissions. Ultra‑rapid and hub installations are essential for enabling longer journeys, while a spread of destination and on‑street units ensures inclusive coverage. However, equitable access across regions must be prioritised to avoid reinforcing geographic disparities. Continued investment and data‑driven planning are key to unlocking a truly national charging network.

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