Public chargers still failing drivers
A Close Brothers Motor Finance survey found 52% of UK EV drivers never use public points. The main reasons were high or unclear pricing (13%), busy or unavailable chargers (10%) and unreliable kit (8%). Inconsistent council oversight makes the picture worse: some authorities track faults hourly while others leave data with private operators, leaving gaps in places such as Lancashire and Essex.
Home charging cuts the risk
Many drivers are turning to home tariffs instead. We compare energy deals that suit overnight EV charging so you can top up cheaply while you sleep. E.ON Next recently cut its overnight rate to 6.9p/kWh, showing how a good home plan can reduce reliance on public points.
What needs to change
John Cassidy, Managing Director at CBMF, said: "If the UK is to accelerate EV adoption, improving reliability, transparency and accountability across the public charging network will be just as important as expanding its size."
He added that drivers need confidence charging will be straightforward wherever they travel. Until that happens, range anxiety will continue to slow the switch to electric.
Fuse Energy points out that smart home charging, paired with clear pricing and app data, gives owners more control and lowers bills. If you already have off-street parking, checking your current energy deal against home-charging tariffs is the simplest first step.
