Pop-up electric vehicle charge points
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The UEone pop-up charge point from Urban Electric was used in the Oxford trial. (Photo: PRNewsfoto/Urban Electric). |
Electric vehicles (EVs) reduce a driver's environmental footprint in a number of ways, including reducing pollution and conserving non-renewable fuel resources. However, they require a little forward thinking to ensure that the EV has the power it needs. From refuelling to pricing, electric car charging stations are crucial.
In August 2017, London boroughs received funding to provide residential charge points to assist those who did not have access to off-street parking. This funding supported a number of innovative new approaches such as using lamp posts as the base and power supply for charge points.
Another innovative approach is the pop-up charging station. These pop-up systems provide curbside charging for EV drivers who park on the street in residential zones and may not have access to reserved charging stations.
Pop-up chargers are designed to be flush with the pavement, so they do not interfere with walkways or create trip hazards. Until it is activated by a user, the charging portion of the device is hidden underground.
This approach to EV charging has been tested in two parts of the country:
- In Oxford, a trial through Urban Electric saw the installation of app-operated UEone prototype devices around the city. The trial was co-funded by Innovate UK in partnership with Duku and Oxford City Council. This programme was completed in April 2020.
- Another prototype funded by Innovate UK is the flat, flush Trojan Energy charging system. The initial phase began as a small trial in July 2021; over time, 150 pop-up charge points will be installed across the London boroughs of Brent and Camden.
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- Two thirds of local authorities have no plans to install EV chargers.
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