EV Magazine August 2023 | Page 53

Negative media coverage is leading consumers to believe that there is an unfixable disparity between the number of EVs on the road and corresponding charging infrastructure , and while we respect the figures from the SMMT , the reality for EV drivers on the road is different .

Despite reports of queues for EV chargers on recent bank holiday weekends , the UK EV infrastructure providers should be being applauded . We are investing in our infrastructure , and more chargers are being installed than ever before . The pipeline is still strong enough to deliver the required numbers by 2030 , with InstaVolt individually installing record numbers of chargers in the first quarter of 2023 .

InstaVolt – backed by investment firm EQT – holds great sway as the UK ’ s largest fully public rapid DC-charging operator . Its aim is to be 100 % sustainable , a goal that is driving InstaVolt ’ s renewable energy strategy around its rapid-charger network .

As it aligns with governmental commitments to cleaner energy , InstaVolt ’ s sights are set on expansion , and growing its network to 10,000 chargers over the next five years . Stable infrastructure is just one part of the full EV transition . We must take the opportunity to encourage and applaud progress to give existing and future drivers confidence that there are rapid chargers available .

TS : Is there a viable alternative to rapid charging ?

AK : Rapid public charging gives consumers convenience and an opportunity to rest and recharge their own batteries for 30 minutes to an hour while their EV is being charged . Drivers and their passengers can shop , grab a hot drink or a meal at nearby amenities or simply relax – something our busy world has grown accustomed to avoiding .

Most of our chargers are situated in locations with multiple food and drink amenities , to give consumers options while charging .

EVMAGAZINE . COM [ Aug 2023 ] 53