SMMT new registrations: Grid delays slow UK electric vehicle transition

Sophie Linnell, Infrastructure and Energy Director at Walker Morris, said: “While April’s registration data shows that electric vehicle uptake continues to move in the right direction year‑on‑year, with the UK registering its 2 millionth BEV, it is still well below the levels required to meet the ZEV mandate. The pace of adoption remains constrained by infrastructure barriers, rather than the availability or affordability of electric vehicles.

“Despite upfront costs falling and more affordable models entering the market, many drivers also remain constrained by charging. The continued disparity between home and public charging costs, highlighted by the ongoing appeal over VAT on public charging, risks creating a two‑tier transition for those without off‑street parking. At the same time, uncertainty around public charging availability and reliability continues to contribute to range anxiety, particularly for drivers reliant on longer journeys or fleet use.

“There is also a widening gap between the UK’s experience and international markets. China has expanded its EV charging infrastructure by almost 50% in the last year, showing what can be achieved where grid access, charging networks and energy planning are treated as part of a coordinated national strategy. By comparison, UK businesses and fleet operators continue to face delays in securing grid connection, navigating local network constraints and competing with wider energy demands.”

She added: “Recent government intervention to support households without off-street parking through cross‑pavement charging is a welcome step, but it does not tackle the structural barriers holding adoption back. Without faster grid connection, clearer investment and an integrated approach to charging and energy infrastructure, the UK risks further connection delays and the gap between expectation and delivery will continue to grow.”