EV charging network Osprey and pub group Marston’s have unveiled the 100th rapid EV charging site in their partnership, and published a new study suggesting almost half (42%) of UK drivers expect to go electric in the next five years, equivalent to more than 16 million additional EVs on UK roads by 2025.
Andy Kershaw, head of property at Marston’s, said: “Sustainability is becoming a key consideration in day-to-day life, with the demand for EV chargers only increasing. We are very proud to have achieved this milestone with Osprey and we look forward to developing our infrastructure further over the next twelve months.”
“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.”
The rollout began in November 2018 and is due to be completed by 2022.
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.”
The new research – a representative survey of 2,001 UK adults – published by Marston’s and Osprey, reveals an accelerating shift towards EVs and highlights some of the remaining barriers to adoption for UK drivers.
If found:
- Almost half (42%) expect to drive an EV in the next five years – equivalent to more than 16 million additional EVs on UK roads by 2025. This rises to 73% for 18-34 year olds.
- The number of public charging points and their availability (48%) and length of time it takes to charge a vehicle (43%) prove to be the biggest concerns with public charging infrastructure.
- Almost two thirds (59%) would prefer to use rapid public charging infrastructure compared to other charging speeds available.
- More than a third (36%) of people would be encouraged to use public EV charging if there were good quality food and drink facilities at EV charging sites.
- 38% are more concerned about air pollution as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- A similar proportion (37%) are less likely to use public transport because of the pandemic, with over half of those (55%) likely to switch to a private car, potentially accelerating the shift to EVs.
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