Accessibility standards to be developed for EV chargepoints

07.59 | 8 July 2021 |

Disabled drivers will benefit from new accessibility standards being developed for electric vehicle chargepoints across the UK.

The standards, which are expected to be in place by the summer of 2022, will inform drivers whether chargepoints are ‘fully accessible’, ‘partially accessible’ or ‘not accessible’.

The factors which will define the ratings range from adequate space between bollards, charging units being of a height suitable for wheelchair users, size of the parking bay and the kerb height.

The DfT, who has commissioned the British Standards Institution (BSI) to develop the standards, in partnership with disability charity Motability, says design of chargepoints is already carefully considered by operators. 

However, it adds consistent standards are crucial for drivers to easily identify which chargepoints are suitable for their needs. 

Rachel Maclean, transport minister, said: “With sales of electric vehicles increasing and the Government’s net zero ambitions accelerating, I want to make it as easy as possible for electric vehicle drivers to charge up their vehicles at public chargepoints right across the UK, regardless of their mobility.

“We are taking action to provide accessibility guidance to both operators and drivers to make sure that the transition to zero-emission driving will benefit everyone in society as we build back better.”

The latest Government stats show as of 1 April, there were 22,790 electric vehicle charging devices available to the public.

Justin Tomlinson, minister for disabled people, said: “As we build back greener, this government is ensuring disabled people are at the heart of our plans.

“As electric vehicles become more popular it is imperative that disabled people have the same opportunities to access them as everyone else. The new accessibility standards for chargepoints will help make this a reality.”


 

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