CMA to boost UK’s electric vehicle revolution ahead of Net Zero target with new measures

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has announced that more measures are needed to ensure the UK is ready for the electric vehicle revolution.

The CMA has stated that in order to comply effectively with the 2030 ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars, certain areas of the electric vehicle charging infrastructure would need to be examined and invested in.

The regulatory body has expressed concern about lack of choice and availability of chargepoints at motorway service stations, aslow roll-out of on-street charging by Local Authorities and lack of investment into chargepoints in rural areas.

Andrea Coscelli, chief executive of the CMA, commented: “Electric vehicles play a critical role in meeting Net Zero but the challenges with creating an entirely new charging network should not be underestimated.

“Some areas of the roll-out are going well and the UK’s network is growing – but it’s clear that other parts, like charging at motorway service stations and on-street, have much bigger hurdles to overcome.

“There needs to be action now to address the postcode lottery in electric vehicle charging as we approach the ban on sales of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030.

“Our recommendations will promote strong competition, encourage more investment, and build people’s trust, both now and in the future. The CMA has also opened a competition law investigation into EV charging along motorways and will continue to work with government and the industry to help ensure electric vehicle charging is a success.”