The UK's transition to electric vehicles has hit a major roadblock after an investigation uncovered serious defects in nearly 100,000 public charging points nationwide.
Widespread Charging Issues Discovered
Recent testing has revealed that approximately one in six public EV chargers may be faulty, potentially leaving drivers stranded without power. The problems range from complete failure to charge to dangerous electrical faults that could pose safety risks.
Impact on EV Adoption
This discovery comes at a critical time for the UK's green transport plans, with the government aiming to phase out petrol and diesel vehicles by 2035. The faulty infrastructure could significantly undermine consumer confidence in electric vehicles.
Industry Response
Charging companies are scrambling to address the issues, but experts warn that repairs and replacements could take months. Some industry insiders suggest the problems stem from rushed installations and inadequate quality control during the network's rapid expansion.
Key concerns include:
- Inconsistent power delivery across charging points
- Frequent system crashes requiring manual resets
- Compatibility issues with certain vehicle models
- Potential fire hazards from electrical faults
The Department for Transport has pledged immediate action, promising stricter quality standards and more rigorous testing for new installations.
