EVA England has launched a survey to gather driver feedback on cross-pavement charging solutions for drivers without driveways, according to the organization. The survey aims to inform upcoming government consultation on expanding charging access.
Recent changes to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill include a commitment to formal consultation on extending permitted development rights for cross-pavement gullies. EVA England is collecting driver experiences ahead of this consultation process.
Baroness Pidgeon secured the amendment during the Bill’s passage through the House of Lords.
She also obtained commitments for Ministers to contact all local authorities encouraging them to use highways contractors for installation – reducing both costs and delays for residents.
The Charging Divide
More than 90% of EV drivers surveyed by EVA England have driveway access. Among those drivers, 87% report their EV costs less to run than their previous petrol or diesel vehicle.
For drivers without driveways, only 50% see cost savings.
They’re forced to rely on expensive public charging networks for daily charging needs. Home charging under the domestic electricity cap costs around 26p per kWh. Smart tariffs can reduce costs to just 7p per kWh – saving drivers an average of £1,000 annually.
Public charging costs significantly more. Slow and fast public chargers average around 52p per kWh. Rapid and ultra-rapid chargers cost around 76p per kWh.
While public charging operators offer some discounts, EVA England says cross-pavement solutions could help millions access domestic energy rates safely and legally.
Current Installation Barriers
Under existing rules, drivers face approval processes lasting up to 15 months for cross-pavement installations. Costs can reach £3,000, creating what EVA England calls a “significant barrier” to EV adoption.
The Planning and Infrastructure Bill, combined with £25 million in government funding, provides what the organization describes as a “clear opportunity” to address these challenges.
“Recent progress in Parliament shows what can be achieved when drivers’ experiences are taken seriously,” said Vicky Edmonds, CEO of EVA England. “The commitments secured by Baroness Pidgeon are an important step towards tackling the charging divide, but policy change only works if it reflects what is actually happening on our streets.”
This survey ensures drivers without driveways have input as government moves forward with these commitments.
Cross-pavement charging won’t suit every situation. Where it does work, it can provide access to cheaper charging and lower running costs – removing one barrier to electric vehicle adoption.
“We want Government and local authorities to get this right, and that starts with listening to drivers,” Edmonds added.
Michael Goulden, Co-founder of Kerbocharge, highlighted the scope of the challenge.
“For too long, over 40% of UK homes have faced a barrier to EV ownership simply because they don’t have a driveway. This has left many potential EV drivers with limited options, such as paying high prices at inconvenient public charging points or sticking with polluting petrol and diesel cars, which contribute directly to the climate emergency.”
He noted government efforts to remove barriers, including consulting on eliminating planning permission requirements for home chargers.
“This survey will provide vital evidence to support the changes we urgently need,” Goulden said.
