The UK government has announced a £10 million investment in cutting-edge technology to revolutionise electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. This initiative seeks to address grid constraint challenges and facilitate the deployment of more charge points across England’s motorways and major A-roads, extending to rural locations. The funding aims to instil confidence in drivers undertaking long-distance journeys in EVs.
Private operators are invited to apply for a share of this funding, intended for the development of innovative energy sources and technologies. These solutions could integrate renewable energy sources such as solar power with energy storage systems like batteries, thereby circumventing the need for costly grid upgrades at sites with limited power access.
The initiative targets grid-constrained sites where high costs or extended timelines would otherwise hinder charge point installation. Keir Mather, Minister for Aviation, Maritime, and Decarbonisation, stated, “We’re powering up the future of driving with £10 million for cutting-edge tech to get more charge points on motorways and major A-roads.” He highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting British innovation, job creation, and easing EV travel.
Projects seeking funding must enable at least 12 EVs to access ultra-rapid charging — delivering approximately 120 to 145 miles of range in just 15 minutes for a typical EV, sufficient for a journey from Birmingham to York. Applications for funding are open until 25 March 2026 via Innovate UK’s website.
This governmental backing aims to secure reliable, cost-effective electricity for EVs, dispelling myths around charge anxiety. This follows the launch of the £650 million Electric Car Grant, which has facilitated over 25,000 drivers in transitioning to electric vehicles with discounts of up to £3,750 on 39 models, contributing to a 29% sales increase in September.
Additionally, the government plans to simplify regulations to enable easier installation of home chargers for renters and residents without driveways. This could potentially save £250 on planning fees and allow households to operate their vehicles for as little as 2p per mile.
Claire Spooner, Director of Mobility at Innovate UK, remarked, “Launching this competition, Innovate UK will test new approaches to the EV charging power challenges on England’s strategic road network, especially in rural areas. The programme’s outcomes will build capability and bring together energy and transport stakeholders to improve EV charging for longer journeys.”
