The UK’s charging network added more than 14,000 devices in 2025 – a growth rate of almost 20% that continues the rapid expansion supporting Britain’s electric vehicle adoption.
Zapmap’s latest annual data shows 14,316 chargers were installed across the country last year. The 19.5% increase brings the total network to 87,796 charging devices at 45,033 locations nationwide.
Ultra-rapid chargers led the growth again.
These high-speed devices – operating at 150kW or higher – jumped 41% to 9,893 units. That’s an addition of more than 2,800 ultra-rapid chargers in just 12 months.
The expansion marks a significant milestone. Ultra-rapid chargers now outnumber rapid devices (50-149kW) for the first time, with rapid chargers growing a more modest 8% to 8,042 units.
Charging Hubs Drive Ultra-Rapid Growth
Much of the ultra-rapid expansion comes from new charging hubs – sites with at least six rapid or ultra-rapid devices. The UK now has 748 hub locations, representing a 39% increase from 2024.
These large-scale charging sites provide multiple high-speed options for drivers on longer journeys.
But 2025’s growth actually represents a slowdown from the previous year’s breakneck pace. The 2024 network expanded by 38%, with hub locations doubling that year.
Melanie Shufflebotham, co-founder and COO at Zapmap, said the slower headline growth reflected more strategic placement rather than pure volume.
“While overall charging infrastructure installations are lower than 2024 – a record-breaking year – this year has been marked by targeted areas of focus with both public and private sectors giving thought to shaping the EV market to best meet driver needs.”
She highlighted how ultra-rapid chargers provide both convenience for current EV drivers and visibility for potential switchers.
“The growth in ultra-rapid charging in particular is not only providing convenience and confidence to existing EV drivers but also, due to their typically visible locations, assuring the next wave of drivers looking to make the switch that the infrastructure is there where it’s needed most.”
On-Street Charging Sees Steady Progress
On-street charging for drivers without home charging access continued expanding, though at a measured pace. An additional 7,659 slower chargers (under 50kW) were installed in 2025.
The UK now has 33,177 on-street devices, with London accounting for roughly 24,000 of them.
Other regions matched London’s 30% growth rate last year, spreading on-street access more evenly across the country.
Shufflebotham expects accelerated on-street growth as government LEVI scheme funding finally reaches deployment. The Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program has faced delays but should drive installations in 2026.
Vicky Read, chief executive of industry body ChargeUK, confirmed the funding timing impact.
“The slower rollout of on-street charging is largely accounted for by the delays to the Government’s LEVI funding scheme, but we are anticipating to see lots more volume on that front in 2026 into 2027 – with a stated aim to deliver 100,000 local low power chargers for those who cannot charge at home.”
That target of 100,000 additional local chargers would triple the current on-street network over the next two years.
The 2025 data shows the UK’s charging infrastructure maturing from rapid expansion to more targeted deployment – focusing on the right chargers in the locations drivers need most.
