Daily Electric Vehicle and EV Charging News

A family drove an Audi Q4 e-tron 2,175 miles from Nice, France, to Northern Ireland and back, achieving around 240 miles between charges with a full load, motorway speeds and air conditioning. The vehicle has a maximum range of 338 miles on a full charge. The journey provided a direct comparison of charging infrastructure between France and the UK, though the article does not specify which country performed better.

Why it matters: The trip offers real world data on charging intervals and range performance under typical family travel conditions across two major European markets. Direct user experience comparisons between French and UK networks inform infrastructure planning and highlight operational differences for cross border EV travel.

The UK Government will reduce domestic electricity VAT from 5% to 0% starting 1 October, benefiting electric vehicle owners who charge at home. David Martell, CEO of home charger company Andersen EV, estimates average EV drivers will save £20 to £25 annually on charging, with higher mileage drivers saving £35 to £40. Carwow calculates that charging a 100 kWh battery will drop from £26.11 to £24.87, a saving of £1.24 per charge.

Why it matters: The VAT cut improves the business case for residential charge point installations by lowering running costs for end users, potentially accelerating home charger demand. CPOs and installers serving the domestic market can use the savings as a sales argument when pitching to households considering EV adoption.

Vietnamese-German University expert Vu Anh Tuan has called for EV charging networks to be integrated into urban planning, linking transport, land use and power supply. In Hanoi, the municipal People's Committee has identified 180 locations for battery swapping cabinets across the Ring Road No. 1 area under Plan No. 215/KH-UBND, with 77 in the core wards of Hoan Kiem and Cua Nam. Hanoi Parking Co., Ltd. has also reviewed 150 parking sites and identified around 40 suitable for charging stations.

Why it matters: The integrated approach links charging infrastructure directly with existing parking facilities and traffic planning, offering procurement teams a replicable model for urban rollouts. Battery swapping cabinet deployment in high density residential areas addresses home charging barriers and may influence CPO site selection strategies in similar Asian markets.

Rideshare drivers in Las Vegas say Waymo autonomous vehicles are blocking Electrify America charging stations for up to 90 minutes, forcing them to wait extended periods at sites including one off Flamingo and Maryland Parkway. Waymo confirmed it uses public infrastructure alongside a depot with charging, stating it tries to stagger usage and builds dedicated charging as operations mature in each city.

Why it matters: The complaints highlight network capacity pressure as fleet operators scale without dedicated infrastructure, a planning challenge for CPOs balancing public access with commercial fleet demand at high utilisation sites.

EV infrastructure provider Zest has cautioned that diluting the UK's Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate risks undermining private investment in charging networks ahead of the 23 October consultation deadline. CEO Robin Heap said weakening the demand signal could create a situation where drivers will not switch without convenient charging, but infrastructure firms will not invest at scale without confidence in future demand. Zest notes that charging projects require years of planning and most contracts run for at least 15 years after commissioning, making long term policy certainty essential for investor commitment.

Why it matters: The warning highlights how policy uncertainty around the ZEV mandate directly affects the business case for long term charging infrastructure projects, potentially delaying site development and grid connection investments. For CPOs and procurement teams, weakened targets could reduce the pipeline of funded projects and slow network expansion needed to meet anticipated EV adoption.

DC fast charging manufacturer Kempower has widened its partnership with Charge Hub to deliver commercial fleet charging sites across the UK, starting with electrified bus depots in south London locations including Bexleyheath, Croydon, Sydenham, Thamesmead and Peckham due for commissioning in the coming months. The collaboration builds on work in Australia, where the pair have completed 100 projects totalling more than 900 active connectors, 52 MW of installed capacity and 11.8 GWh of energy delivered at 99.4 per cent uptime. Charge Hub provides turnkey solutions covering site design, installation, operation and maintenance, with Kempower supplying its distributed charging systems.

Why it matters: The partnership signals a proven fleet charging model entering the UK market with a track record of high uptime and scale in Australia, offering CPOs and fleet operators a reference for distributed DC systems in depot environments. The south London bus depot pipeline provides near term procurement visibility for suppliers targeting the commercial vehicle segment.

The UK Government will create a new permitted development right for cross-pavement charging installations, removing the need for a separate planning application while local authorities retain oversight through highways permissions. The change aims to address the charging divide affecting around four in ten UK households without off-street parking, who currently face public charging costs up to ten times higher than home rates. The move follows a campaign by EVA England, Baroness Pidgeon and partners including the REA, New Automotive and Kerbo Charge, and was confirmed in the Government's response to its consultation on EV charging rules.

Why it matters: Simplifying approvals for cross-pavement chargers could unlock a significant new residential installation market, as roughly 40 per cent of UK households lack driveways. Installers and charge point operators may see increased demand for domestic solutions that bridge the cost gap between home and public charging.

Kenya's electric vehicle market is developing around commercial transport, with electric buses entering commuter routes and battery swapping networks targeting motorcycle riders, while local assembly and bank financing products support operators unable to pay upfront. The 2026 Economic Survey shows petroleum imports reached approximately KSh511 billion in 2025, exceeding combined export earnings of around KSh442 billion from tea, flowers, fruit, vegetables and coffee. The transition depends on whether electric mobility can achieve commercial viability at scale amid high financing costs, uneven infrastructure and uncertain tax conditions.

Why it matters: Commercial fleets with measurable operating costs are proving the business case for electrification in emerging markets, creating procurement opportunities for buses, charging infrastructure and battery swapping systems. The scale of petroleum imports versus export earnings underlines the potential economic driver for domestic charging networks and locally assembled vehicles.

Brooklyn firm it's electric will install 600 curbside EV charging posts across New York City under a contract to be announced on Tuesday, expanding from an 88 point pilot operated by FLO. Pedestrian and street safety groups, including Open Plans, argue the permanent infrastructure locks public kerb space into car parking rather than allowing future use for bike lanes, bus lanes or street amenities.

Why it matters: The 600 unit rollout marks a significant municipal procurement win for it's electric and signals accelerating US city investment in on street charging infrastructure, though opposition from advocacy groups may shape future tender requirements or site selection criteria for CPOs and contractors.

JD Power's latest study found Ionna, the charging network backed by eight automakers including GM, Honda and Stellantis, scored highest for overall satisfaction among national DC fast charging networks in the United States, surpassing Tesla's Supercharger network. The study reported the lowest rate of visits where drivers could not charge since tracking began, with improvements in satisfaction around charging costs and safety. Ionna offers chargers delivering up to 400 kW and does not require a dedicated app or subscription, with locations typically featuring food, drink and restroom facilities.

Why it matters: The findings signal that non-Tesla networks are closing the reliability and user experience gap, potentially influencing procurement decisions for CPOs evaluating which hardware and network partnerships deliver the highest customer satisfaction. Ionna's app-free model and amenity-rich sites may set a new benchmark for site design and operational standards in the competitive DC fast charging market.

Worcester is expanding its municipal EV charging network by nearly 75%, adding 22 Level 2 ports at five city-owned locations to bring the total from 30 to 52 public charging points. Construction begins the week of 14 September and runs through December, with sites including Elm Park, Vernon Park, Great Brook Valley Park and two other locations. The project is funded primarily through grants with limited municipal contribution, though total costs were not disclosed.

Why it matters: The rollout demonstrates how mid-sized cities are scaling public charging infrastructure through grant-led procurement, nearly doubling capacity in a single phase. For CPOs and installers, the multi-site, Level 2 focus signals steady municipal work pipelines through year-end.

Moray Council in Scotland has adopted a policy allowing cable grooves to be cut into pavements, enabling residents without off-road parking to charge electric vehicles at home without creating trip hazards. Councillor Draeyk van der Horn, who proposed the motion in 2024, noted that around 30 per cent of Moray households lack off-road parking. Installation costs fall to homeowners or service providers, though the Scottish Government's Energy Savings Trust offers a cross pavement charging grant to support uptake.

Why it matters: The policy opens a regulated pathway for residential charge point installations in areas where roughly a third of homes have no driveway access, potentially expanding the addressable market for domestic charger suppliers and installers. Standardised kerb markings under review may also clarify site suitability and reduce conflicts over pavement space.

InstaVolt Ltd has submitted plans to install four rapid electric vehicle charging stations at the King James Retail Centre car park in Godmanchester, near Huntingdon, replacing six existing standard parking spaces across approximately 122 square metres. The proposal includes one fully accessible charging bay and associated equipment. InstaVolt currently operates more than 2,500 rapid chargers already in service or under construction across the UK.

Why it matters: The application illustrates the trade off between traditional parking provision and EV infrastructure at retail destinations, a planning tension likely to recur as charge point operators target high footfall sites. For procurement teams and local authorities, the case offers a reference point on space ratios and accessibility requirements when evaluating similar retail car park conversions.

Tesla Motors Vietnam Co., Ltd. was established in Ho Chi Minh City on 11 September 2026 with registered capital of VND77.7 billion ($3 million), licensed to import, distribute and retail automobiles and parts. The US electric vehicle maker has not announced vehicle sales timelines, model line-up, pricing or charging infrastructure plans for the Vietnamese market.

Why it matters: The entity registration signals Tesla's intent to enter Vietnam, yet the absence of charging infrastructure plans leaves a gap for local charge point operators and installers to address if Tesla vehicles arrive without the proprietary network that underpins its global model.

The Uttar Pradesh government plans to add 1,000 new EV charging points to its existing 238 operational facilities, aiming for a five fold increase in charging infrastructure. The state, currently ranked third in India for public EV charging infrastructure, concentrates existing stations around major highways, expressways and industrial corridors. Under the UP Electric Vehicle Manufacturing and Mobility Policy 2022, the government offers capital subsidies to EV charging service providers for investments of ₹25 lakh or more.

Why it matters: The expansion creates significant procurement opportunities for charge point operators and equipment suppliers in India's most populous state. Capital subsidy support for investments above ₹25 lakh may accelerate private sector deployment along key transport corridors.

Harborough District Council reports that construction of a 12-point, 11 kW charging hub under a solar canopy at The Commons car park in Market Harborough is on schedule to finish by 19 September. The facility will not open immediately after build completion because the council is waiting for the energy provider to install an electricity supply meter. A section of the car park next to the Co-op remains closed during construction.

Why it matters: The project illustrates a common grid connection bottleneck: civil works can finish on time yet commissioning stalls while DNOs schedule metering, a risk procurement teams should price into delivery timelines. The 11 kW AC and solar canopy combination also signals a trend towards slower, destination charging with on-site generation in district council portfolios.

HERE Technologies and SBD Automotive have published Australia's first inclusion in the HERE and SBD EV Index 2026, finding that 67 per cent of surveyed Australian drivers are now more likely to consider an EV than a year ago, driven by fuel costs, improved range and workplace charging access. The index warns that Australia's EV fleet is expanding faster than its public charging infrastructure, creating a growing infrastructure challenge as the market moves beyond early adopters and Chinese brands gain share.

Why it matters: The widening gap between EV adoption and charging rollout signals urgent procurement opportunities for public and workplace charging projects across Australia. CPOs and infrastructure developers face rising demand as two thirds of drivers shift toward EVs, but must address network density to support mass market transition.

Ionna, the automaker backed DC fast charging network, now operates 1,488 charging ports at 174 stations across the United States, representing 50% more plugs and 74% more locations than six months ago, according to the Department of Energy's Alternative Fuels Data Center. The network, which opened its first chargers in December 2024, uses dual cable Alpitronic stalls delivering up to 400 kilowatts and targets 30,000 charging bays by 2030.

Why it matters: The rapid expansion demonstrates a viable automaker backed deployment model achieving what the company claims is the fastest rollout of any EV charging company. Procurement teams and site hosts should note the dual cable Alpitronic hardware strategy, which translates the 30,000 bay target into 15,000 physical stalls for land and grid planning.

ThunderPlus has launched a 0.5 MW public EV charging station at Kovvur on National Highway 16 in Andhra Pradesh, serving the Vijayawada to Visakhapatnam corridor. The station, located within The Godavari Hub restaurant and stopover, offers 24/7 power availability for passenger cars, commercial vehicles and intercity electric buses. The company plans to double capacity to 1 MW shortly as part of its strategy to develop charging hubs along major intercity routes in Southern India.

Why it matters: The deployment demonstrates growing investment in high capacity highway charging infrastructure to support long distance EV travel and commercial fleet operations in India. The planned capacity doubling to 1 MW signals confidence in demand growth along strategic intercity corridors.

Volvo Penta is displaying its battery energy storage system (BESS) subsystem at IAA Transportation 2026, alongside the Hivolt 380X mobile unit developed by Contour Advanced Systems. The solution targets locations with limited grid capacity or no permanent charging infrastructure, offering transport and logistics operators additional charging capacity without fixed grid connections or lengthy permitting processes. The technology can be deployed at temporary sites, events or where existing charging has been disrupted, and can supplement limited grid connections in permanent installations to support high power EV charging.

Why it matters: Mobile battery storage offers procurement teams and charge point operators a faster route to deploying high power charging without waiting for grid upgrades or civil works, addressing a key constraint in expanding EV infrastructure. The technology provides flexibility for temporary deployments and backup capacity, potentially reducing project timelines and capital costs for operators facing grid connection delays.

National operator Zapgo has launched a ten-bay ultra-rapid EV charging station at Sowerby Wood Business Park in Barrow, including two accessible bays. The site is offering an introductory price of 50p per kWh from 14 to 28 September, compared to the RAC average of 83.55p per kWh for ultra-rapid charging. Maintenance will be handled by local firm JB Cleaning Services, for whom this is their first major commercial contract since launching in 2023.

Why it matters: The launch adds ten ultra-rapid bays to the UK network and demonstrates Zapgo's expansion into regional business parks. The use of a local maintenance contractor highlights opportunities for smaller service firms to enter the EV infrastructure supply chain.

Austrian diagnostics firm AVILOO has published findings from more than 500,000 independent battery tests showing that State of Health can differ by up to 13.5% between individual examples of the same electric vehicle model. The AVILOO Certified EV Battery Report covers tests conducted between 2022 and 2026 across 20 popular EV models, measuring median State of Health at 31,069 miles, 62,137 miles and 93,206 miles using physical battery measurements rather than dashboard readings. The Tesla Model Y, for example, showed a median State of Health of 94.5% at 50,000 kilometres, falling to 90.3% at 150,000 kilometres.

Why it matters: Wide variation in battery health within the same model underscores the need for independent testing when procuring used EVs for fleets or assessing residual values in leasing programmes. For charge point operators, understanding real world battery degradation patterns across popular models can inform infrastructure planning and customer support strategies as the used EV market grows.

Wisconsin has approved $25 million in federal funding for 42 new DC fast-charging sites, delivering a minimum of 168 ports across communities including Eagle River, Sturgeon Bay, Viroqua, and Prairie du Chien. The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure programme requires each site to include at least four CCS ports capable of 150 kilowatts simultaneously, with equipment supplied by Tesla, Autel, and Gilbarco at locations such as Woodman's grocery stores, hotels, and Kwik Trip convenience stores. WisDOT has not disclosed how many stations will feature NACS connectors, though 93 per cent of chargers currently online include them.

Why it matters: The award signals a shift from corridor-focused deployment to community-level charging infrastructure, opening procurement opportunities at retail, hospitality, and fuel-retail sites. CPOs and equipment suppliers will compete to meet the four-port, 150-kilowatt minimum standard while navigating the evolving CCS to NACS transition across Wisconsin's expanding network.

Finnish EVSE maker Kempower has signed a framework agreement with global logistics operator DP World to provide charging infrastructure and services at all DP World terminals in Canada. The first phase covers 46 Kempower satellites delivering 4.4 megawatts across the Vancouver, Fraser Surrey and Prince Rupert sites, supporting electrification of service vehicles and container handling equipment. DP World operates five Canadian terminals today, with a sixth under construction at Montreal's Contrecoeur site due for commissioning by 2030.

Why it matters: The multi site framework standardises charging hardware for one of the world's largest port operators in Canada, signalling fleet electrification at scale in heavy duty logistics. Kempower's existing 2024 deployment at DP World's London Gateway hub likely informed the Canadian rollout, offering a repeatable template for port electrification procurement.

A September 2026 study by Rubix Data Sciences, citing Confederation of Indian Industry projections, found India will need 1.32 million EV charging points by 2030. Ministry of Heavy Industries data shows the country had 67,657 public charging points as of August 2026, leaving a gap of over 1.25 million units. The report highlights infrastructure challenges including apartment complexes blocking home charger installations due to safety concerns, even as running costs for EVs can fall to 1 rupee per kilometre with domestic electricity versus 10 to 12 rupees per kilometre for petrol vehicles.

Why it matters: The 95 per cent shortfall against 2030 targets signals urgent procurement opportunities across India's public and commercial charging sectors. Residential charging barriers are pushing demand towards workplace and public infrastructure, reshaping site selection and business models for charge point operators.

The global EV charging industry is shifting focus from installation volume to operational metrics such as reliability, utilization and return on investment, according to a competitive analysis covering 2026. Tesla's Supercharger network exceeded 80,000 stalls and delivered 6.7 TWh of electricity during 2025, maintaining its position as the global benchmark for fast charging through vertical integration of vehicles, chargers, software and payments. The analysis highlights that electricity throughput, charging sessions, uptime and recurring software revenue are becoming as important as the number of plugs installed, with battery energy storage systems, artificial intelligence, roaming agreements and energy management software emerging as competitive advantages.

Why it matters: Procurement teams and CPOs must now evaluate charging infrastructure on operational performance and financial returns rather than installation numbers alone, with throughput, utilization and uptime becoming critical tender criteria. The emphasis on software revenue, BESS integration and energy management signals that successful charging networks will require sophisticated operational capabilities beyond hardware deployment.

Fleet operators and business drivers using Shell Card can now access over 4,250 InstaVolt fast chargers across more than 1,200 UK locations. The roaming partnership expands Shell Recharge's third party network, which already covers forecourts, on street sites and destination hubs. InstaVolt CEO Delvin Lane said the tie up offers fleet managers a simpler way to manage charging across their business.

Why it matters: The deal consolidates payment access for commercial fleets, a key procurement criterion as operators seek single card solutions to reduce driver friction and back office complexity. It also signals continued roaming integration among UK charge point operators, shaping how public networks compete for fleet contracts.

The Iraqi Ministries of Environment and Transport are developing a Green Taxi pilot project featuring dedicated solar powered charging plazas, designed to avoid burdening the national electricity grid while cutting emissions. Haider Al Darraji, Director of the Carbon Economics Company under the Ministry of Environment, told the official state newspaper the initiative marks the first phase of a national green economy transition, with expansion dependent on performance data from the pilot including vehicle deployment volumes and operational utilisation.

Why it matters: The solar charging infrastructure model addresses grid capacity constraints common in emerging EV markets, offering a template for operators seeking off grid charging solutions. Iraq's phased, data driven approach signals potential future procurement opportunities contingent on pilot results.

The Department for Transport is examining Permitted Development Rights for cross pavement charging solutions, including pavement gullies and cable channels, which would remove the need for formal planning applications. The move aims to help EV owners without driveways access domestic electricity rates of around 7p per kWh and 0% VAT, compared to public charging at roughly 54p per kWh with 20% VAT. The proposal follows a consultation in which respondents supported reducing installation time and cost.

Why it matters: Streamlined planning could accelerate residential charging infrastructure for the estimated millions of UK households without off street parking, potentially reducing reliance on public networks. Lower regulatory friction may also open new installation opportunities for charge point operators and contractors serving terraced and urban housing.

A Freedom of Information request by Vauxhall reveals that 50 per cent of UK councils provide no on-street residential EV charging, down from 66 per cent in 2023, even as 2.18 million EVs now use British roads. While over 90 per cent of councils have installed at least one public charger in their area, 40 per cent of drivers live in properties without off-street parking, leaving a significant gap in charging access for residents without driveways.

Why it matters: The findings expose a critical infrastructure shortfall that could stall EV adoption among the four in ten households reliant on street parking, signalling urgent procurement opportunities for on-street charging solutions. Councils lagging in residential provision face mounting pressure to tender kerbside and lamppost charging contracts as the UK's electrification targets advance.

A family drove approximately 450 miles from Scotland to Manchester and back in a Tesla Model Y, relying on home charging and the Tesla Supercharger network at Tebay Services and Trafford Centre. The YouTube video from The Charging Family tested whether charging could remain in the background during a busy weekend trip without hotel charging access, using Tesla's route planner to manage stops.

Why it matters: The test demonstrates real world reliance on public fast charging infrastructure when destination charging is unavailable, highlighting the operational importance of strategically located Supercharger sites along major UK routes for long distance EV travel.

Evro, the digital partner app for ACMobility's EV charging network, has exceeded 100,000 users and now connects drivers to more than 430 Department of Energy registered charging hubs across the Philippines. The platform supports over 100 EV models and has facilitated sessions that avoided an estimated 2,339 tonnes of carbon emissions, equivalent to 546 petrol passenger vehicles driven for one year.

Why it matters: The milestone demonstrates strong network effects in the Philippine market, where a single interoperable app now aggregates demand across hundreds of charge points. For CPOs, Evro's user base offers immediate customer reach and simplified payment infrastructure, lowering the commercial risk of new site deployments.

Evro, the digital partner app for ACMobility's EV charging network, has exceeded 100,000 users and now connects drivers to more than 430 Department of Energy registered charging hubs across the Philippines. The platform supports over 100 EV models and has facilitated sessions that avoided an estimated 2,339 tonnes of carbon emissions, equivalent to 546 petrol passenger vehicles driven for one year.

Why it matters: The milestone demonstrates the scale of interoperable charging infrastructure in the Philippines and signals growing demand for networked CPO platforms. For charge point operators, Evro's reach offers a proven channel to attract commercial fleet and retail EV drivers nationwide.

Chester County, Pennsylvania, has begun installing 11 level 2 EV charging stations across the county, funded by $645,609 in Community Project Funding secured by U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan and supported by PennDOT and DVRPC. Officials broke ground Friday at the Chester Valley Trailhead at Exton Park, marking the start of the rollout. The county reports having the highest number of registered EVs per capita of any Pennsylvania county.

Why it matters: The project demonstrates how federal Community Project Funding can accelerate local charging infrastructure deployment, particularly in counties with high EV adoption rates. Procurement teams and CPOs should note the multi agency coordination model involving federal, state and regional planning bodies to deliver level 2 infrastructure at public sites.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation has allocated 14.4 million dollars from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program to install and operate 14 charging stations across the state. Awards include 1,714,465 dollars for a site on U.S. 74 in Whiteville and follow a first round that granted 991,000 dollars for a station in Leland. NCDOT cited rising EV registrations as the driver for network expansion.

Why it matters: The second NEVI funding round signals sustained state commitment to corridor charging, offering procurement visibility for equipment suppliers and construction firms. Station density along U.S. 74 and other routes will shape competitive positioning for charge point operators targeting North Carolina's growing EV fleet.

The UK government will charge battery electric vehicle drivers 3 pence per mile and plug-in hybrid drivers 1.5 pence per mile starting 1 April 2028, with the Office for Budget Responsibility estimating an annual bill of £255 (around $348) for drivers covering 8,500 miles. Drivers will report odometer readings when renewing vehicle excise duty, paying upfront or in instalments, with rates rising with inflation from 2029. US states are exploring similar mileage based taxation as EV adoption reduces fuel duty revenues.

Why it matters: The policy signals a shift in total cost of ownership for fleet operators and charge point hosts, potentially dampening EV uptake rates that underpin infrastructure investment cases. Procurement teams must factor rising operating costs into business models, while CPOs may see demand patterns change if drivers reduce mileage to avoid per mile charges.

German test equipment maker comemso has migrated its ISO 15118-4 and ISO 15118-5 test libraries to comframe, its proprietary software platform, allowing developers to configure, run and evaluate standardised communication tests for AC and DC charging stations directly within the system. The libraries, which cover conformance tests for network, application protocol, physical and data link layers, were previously validated through the Charging Interface Initiative (CharIN). Comemso verified the port by running test cases on two charging stations using both comframe and the previous platform and comparing results.

Why it matters: Procurement teams and CPOs commissioning or inspecting charging infrastructure can now access validated ISO 15118 conformance testing through a single integrated platform, potentially streamlining quality assurance and interoperability verification during station deployment and field inspection.

Paua, a UK EV charging payment platform provider, has partnered with Norwegian charger manufacturer Zaptec to deliver a connected charging ecosystem for fleet operators across home, workplace, depot and public locations. The partnership combines Zaptec's Go 2 home charging and Pro depot solutions with Paua's payment platform, using in-built energy meters to share session data and automate cost calculation and mileage reimbursement. The system aims to address fragmented charging management as fleets transition to EVs across multiple locations.

Why it matters: Fleet operators managing multi-site charging can now procure an integrated hardware and payment solution that automates expense tracking and provides real-time visibility, potentially reducing administrative overhead and simplifying vendor management for large scale deployments.

The Bihar transport department and Indian Oil Corporation Limited signed an MoU to deploy fast EV charging stations at 10 major government premises in Patna, including the state Secretariat, Visvesvaraya Bhawan and the Legislative Assembly. State transport commissioner Arif Ahsan and IOCL's Bihar retail sales head Rajiv Kumar formalised the agreement on Friday, with the first phase targeting government employees, officials and the public to encourage electric vehicle adoption.

Why it matters: The deal signals a public sector procurement model pairing state real estate with an oil major's charging rollout, offering CPOs a template for anchor tenant sites. Fast charger placement at high footfall government buildings can de risk utilisation forecasts and attract further private investment in urban charging networks.

The Bihar transport department and Indian Oil Corporation Limited signed an MoU to deploy fast EV charging stations at 10 major government premises in Patna, including the state Secretariat, Visvesvaraya Bhawan, the Legislative Assembly and multi modal hub. State transport commissioner Arif Ahsan and IOCL's Bihar retail sales head Rajiv Kumar formalised the agreement on Friday, with the first phase targeting government employees, officials and the general public to encourage electric vehicle adoption.

Why it matters: The partnership demonstrates how state governments in India are leveraging public real estate and oil major partnerships to accelerate charging rollout. Targeting high footfall government sites offers CPOs a model for anchor tenant deployments that blend public service with commercial viability.

EVgo and real estate investment fund Regency Centers Corporation have expanded their partnership to install more than 400 new fast charging stalls at Regency shopping centres across the United States. The rollout will increase Regency's EV infrastructure footprint by over 20% and span urban centres in Colorado, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas and Virginia. EVgo currently operates more than 150 stalls at Regency locations, having installed its first charger at a Regency centre in 2020.

Why it matters: The deal underscores the commercial case for fast charging at retail destinations, with EVgo citing dwell time data showing approximately half of drivers who stop at a site enter nearby retail locations or restaurants. For CPOs and site hosts, the partnership model demonstrates how grocery anchored shopping centres can serve as anchor tenants for public charging infrastructure at scale.

EVgo has commissioned a 10-stall, 20-connector fast-charging station on South Robertson Boulevard in Los Angeles, which the company describes as the city's largest non-Tesla public charging site. The facility offers two CHAdeMO ports at 100 kW and 18 CCS connectors distributed across stalls rated at 100 kW, 200 kW and 350 kW. EVgo now operates 1,175 fast-charging stations across the United States with 5,185 public ports, according to the U.S. Department of Energy's Alternative Fuels Data Center.

Why it matters: The deployment signals continued investment in high-power urban charging infrastructure and sets a benchmark for non-Tesla hub scale in a major metropolitan market. Procurement teams and site hosts will note the mix of legacy CHAdeMO and dominant CCS standards, as well as the strategic placement near retail and transport corridors.

China has set a goal for EVs to account for 70% of new passenger car sales and 40% of commercial vehicle sales by 2030, according to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology's 15th Five Year Plan for the Development of the Intelligent Connected New Energy Vehicle Industry. The target comes as the China Passenger Car Association reports record EV penetration of 65.2% in the passenger segment, with commercial EV sales rising 56.6% year on year to 103,000 units in August 2026.

Why it matters: The modest increase from 65% to 70% passenger EV penetration by 2030 signals continued but slowing growth in the world's largest EV market, shaping infrastructure planning for charge point operators. Rising commercial EV adoption, up 56.6% year on year, points to growing demand for depot and destination charging solutions across logistics and fleet sectors.

Chery UK will introduce four new and updated models over the next 12 months, including its first fully electric vehicle in the UK market, alongside upgrades to its Chery Super Hybrid powertrains across the Tiggo 4, 7, 8 and 9 line. Since entering the UK market in August 2025, the brand has registered more than 29,000 vehicles, capturing over 2.5% market share. Models with the CSH hybrid system account for 75% of Chery UK's registrations.

Why it matters: The rapid expansion of Chery's electrified fleet, with hybrids already representing three quarters of sales, signals growing demand for charging infrastructure to support both plug in hybrid and full EV models across its dealer and fleet networks. The brand's swift market penetration and upcoming EV launch will likely drive new charging installation opportunities at retail and workplace sites serving Chery customers.

Benchmark Mineral Intelligence reports that global electric vehicle sales reached 1.83 million units in August 2026, a 2% year on year increase, bringing year to date sales to 13.4 million units, up 4% on the first eight months of 2025. Europe led regional performance with 36% year on year growth in August, while North America saw a contraction that offset gains elsewhere, according to BMI data manager Charles Lester.

Why it matters: Sustained EV adoption, even at modest 2% monthly growth, signals continued expansion of the charging infrastructure market as fleet sizes grow. Regional divergence, particularly Europe's 36% surge versus North American decline, will shape where CPOs and contractors prioritise network rollout and capacity investment.

University of Wisconsin–Madison researchers have found that Michigan's electric vehicle policies prioritise charging infrastructure expansion and adoption rates but give insufficient attention to whether low income residents can afford to participate in the transition. The study, part of a broader project examining EV charging infrastructure development across Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota, concludes that access to electric vehicles requires more than the ability to purchase a vehicle and must include access to the entire supporting system. Researchers worked with local communities, including tribal nations, on charging station placement decisions.

Why it matters: Procurement teams and charge point operators planning Michigan deployments must consider equity factors beyond physical infrastructure availability, as state policy gaps around affordability may affect site utilisation and funding eligibility. The findings suggest that successful rollout strategies require engagement with low income communities to ensure charging networks serve all potential users.

Charge point operator Believ marked World EV Day on 9 September by offering free charging and information at Newby Place in Tower Hamlets, where 17 chargers have now gone live as part of a fully funded partnership with Tower Hamlets Council to deploy more than 70 rapid and ultra-rapid chargers across 35 sites in the borough. The event ran from 10am to 4pm, with Believ staff answering questions about EV charging for residents, commuters, taxi drivers and businesses. Tower Hamlets has 93 per cent of homes lacking off-street parking, making accessible public charging critical for the transition to electric vehicles.

Why it matters: The rollout demonstrates how CPOs are using community engagement to support dense urban deployments where the vast majority of residents cannot charge at home. With 17 of 70 planned chargers already operational, the Tower Hamlets partnership offers a model for fully funded rapid and ultra-rapid infrastructure in high-traffic boroughs with limited private parking.

Tesla has applied to Somerset Council for a charging facility at the Wincanton Gateway site off the A303, featuring 16 supercharger units under a solar canopy, a substation and a battery energy storage unit. The site, adjacent to a McDonald's on the A371 Lawrence Hill, will use stored solar energy to reduce grid pressure, with a decision expected before Christmas. Planning Potential confirmed the network is open to all EVs, not Tesla vehicles exclusively.

Why it matters: The 16 bay hub with onsite solar and battery storage offers a model for grid friendly rapid charging infrastructure on strategic trunk roads. Somerset Council's pre Christmas decision timeline gives CPOs and contractors a near term signal for similar roadside developments.

Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority has signed an agreement with Convergence Energy Services Limited to develop public EV charging and battery swapping stations at five parking locations within the Mumbai port. The facilities will support electric tractor-trailers, buses, cars, three-wheelers and two-wheelers operating within and around the port ecosystem.

Why it matters: The rollout demonstrates how major logistics hubs are procuring multi-vehicle charging infrastructure to decarbonise freight and port operations. CPOs targeting commercial fleets and heavy-duty segments may find similar port and industrial-site opportunities as operators seek turnkey charging and swapping solutions.

New Energy Transport has taken delivery of the first two Windrose electric prime movers sold in Australia, which will enter full time operation in a few weeks running daily heavy freight between Sydney and Canberra. The trucks can cover more than 600 kilometres with a fully loaded trailer on a single charge. NET announced in June plans to deploy 20 electric prime movers on routes between Sydney and regional centres including Newcastle, Wollongong and Canberra after securing 5 million dollars in funding, supported by six mobile ultra fast charging units and a charging hub under construction in Wilton, south of Sydney.

Why it matters: The deployment marks the first commercial sale of Windrose electric trucks in Australia and demonstrates the viability of zero emission heavy freight on regional routes up to 600 kilometres. The mobile charging strategy offers a model for operators seeking to launch electric truck services before fixed infrastructure is complete.

The University of California, Santa Cruz has installed 12 new EV charging ports at its Central Heating Plant, comprising four DC fast chargers and eight Level 2 units. The ports are reserved for university fleet vehicles from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., then open to public use during evenings and weekends. The project received financial support from the California Energy Commission's Clean Transportation Program.

Why it matters: The installation demonstrates how public institutions are building dedicated charging infrastructure to support fleet electrification targets, with dual use models that maximise asset utilisation. The inclusion of DC fast charging addresses operational downtime concerns that often slow fleet conversion decisions.

Pennsylvania has launched an $11 million federal funding round for public EV charging stations across 26 central Pennsylvania counties, with applications open until 12 March 2027. The allocation is part of a broader $100 million plus federal NEVI programme for community charging statewide, following earlier rounds in southeastern and western regions. Pennsylvania has opened nearly 50 NEVI funded stations since December 2023, with 41 more in planning or construction, and existing chargers have delivered over 146,000 sessions supporting an estimated 17.3 million miles of driving.

Why it matters: The three year application window and regional rollout structure give CPOs and contractors extended visibility for project planning in central Pennsylvania's 26 county area. With 91 stations already live or in the pipeline from $58 million in earlier highway corridor funding, the state's NEVI deployment offers a proven procurement pathway for firms targeting federally backed charging work.

General Motors CEO Mary Barra reaffirmed battery electric vehicles as the company's long term goal but cited changing US regulations, charging infrastructure problems and consumer concerns as barriers to faster uptake. She noted that earlier policies aimed for EVs to reach up to half of total vehicle sales by 2030, but recent policy shifts have slowed momentum compared to Europe and China, where stricter emission rules and complementary policies have driven more robust charging networks. In the US, federal infrastructure funding has been allocated to expand charging, yet permitting requirements and administrative hurdles have made charger installation difficult and time consuming, though the total count of available charging stations continues to grow each quarter.

Why it matters: The remarks underscore how regulatory uncertainty and permitting delays directly affect the pace at which CPOs and contractors can deploy new charging infrastructure in the United States. For procurement teams and site developers, the contrast with Europe and China highlights the need to navigate uneven policy frameworks and administrative bottlenecks that slow project timelines.

Malaysia registered 44,813 electric vehicles in 2025, up 105.7 per cent from 21,789 in 2024, according to an opinion piece by Azanin Ahmad published on September 10. Public charging points rose from around 3,600 at end 2024 to 5,149 by September 30, 2025, a 43 per cent increase, and reached 6,416 by May 31, 2026, split between 2,143 DC and 4,273 AC chargers. The author argues that EV adoption is outpacing infrastructure rollout by more than two to one, raising concerns about charger availability and network fragmentation.

Why it matters: The widening gap between vehicle sales and charging capacity signals procurement urgency for public and private site hosts in Malaysia. CPOs face growing pressure to deploy chargers faster and ensure interoperability as consumer anxiety over access threatens to slow EV uptake.

Commercial fleet electrification firm VEV has received investment led by Jolt Capital V, a fund targeting €1 billion to back around 20 European deeptech companies, with Finland's state investor Tesi co-investing. The deal sees Jolt and Tesi acquire Vitol's stake in the UK-headquartered company, which now serves 6,000 commercial electric vehicles across Europe, including over 5,000 in the UK. VEV will use the funding to enter France, Germany and the Netherlands, pursue acquisitions and develop its technology platform covering fleet strategy, charging infrastructure, energy supply and operations.

Why it matters: The investment signals growing institutional confidence in commercial fleet charging as a distinct market, with VEV's integrated model spanning infrastructure, energy and operations positioning it to compete for large fleet contracts across multiple European markets. The acquisition strategy suggests consolidation may accelerate among fleet-focused charge point operators as they seek scale to serve pan-European customers.

The City of Burlington will begin charging for electric vehicle charging at municipal stations from 1 October 2025, ending 11 years of free provision. The city has expanded its network from 2 charging stations in 2015 to 49 in 2025, with rising maintenance, repair and electricity costs cited as the driver for the new fees.

Why it matters: The shift from free to paid charging at a growing municipal network signals how local authorities are moving from subsidy models to cost recovery as utilisation rises, a trend that may influence procurement and operating assumptions for public sector charge point operators across Canada.

Major automakers and battery manufacturers are targeting 2027 to 2030 for small-scale production of all-solid-state batteries, with full-scale mass manufacturing expected from 2030 onwards. Solid-state batteries promise higher energy density, improved safety and faster charging compared to current lithium-ion technologies, including lithium-iron phosphate batteries. Some products marketed as solid-state batteries are already reaching the market, though these are not true all-solid-state batteries.

Why it matters: EV infrastructure planners and charge point operators must factor in a decade-long transition period before solid-state technology reaches mass production, meaning current charging network designs should accommodate lithium-ion battery characteristics through at least 2030. The faster charging capabilities promised by solid-state batteries may eventually require infrastructure upgrades to deliver higher power outputs.

RAW Charging is providing a 50% discount on EV charging at more than 65 National Trust destinations across the UK from 11 to 20 September 2026, covering over 500 charging bays with both AC and DC chargers. The promotion reduces DC rapid charging to less than 40p per kWh during the offer period, with all chargers fully contactless. The discount coincides with Heritage Open Days, England's largest festival of history and culture.

Why it matters: The campaign demonstrates how destination charging operators can use promotional pricing to drive utilisation at leisure sites, while the 500 bay footprint across National Trust properties highlights the scale of RAW's hospitality and heritage sector deployment.

Tata Power and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd. (TATA.ev) have reported that their co-branded Mega Charger network has exceeded 70,000 charging sessions since deployment. The 10 hubs, located across Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, operate 25 fast chargers with 56 charging guns and a combined capacity of 2.7 MW, with individual hub capacities ranging from 180 kW to 600 kW. The network has delivered over 85,000 hours of charging, supported more than 75 lakh electric kilometres and helped avoid an estimated 6,690 tonnes of CO₂ emissions.

Why it matters: The milestone demonstrates the operational scale achievable by co-branded charging networks in India and provides procurement teams with performance benchmarks for high capacity hub deployments. The geographic spread across intercity corridors and urban centres offers a model for CPOs planning multi-state fast charging rollouts.

Battery electric vehicles became the UK's best selling fuel type in August 2026, overtaking petrol for the first time as new car registrations rose 17.5 per cent year on year, according to Nick Tatum, Chief EV and Energy Officer at Moto Hospitality. Year to date BEV share stands at 25.6 per cent, below the 33 per cent Zero Emission Vehicle mandate target, with seasonal August BEV share rising from around 20 per cent in 2023 to almost 30 per cent in 2026. Tatum argues the gap in adoption is not consumer appetite but whether charging infrastructure can scale fast enough to meet demand.

Why it matters: The milestone shift in fuel type sales underscores the urgency for charge point operators and infrastructure developers to accelerate deployment plans to avoid becoming a bottleneck to EV uptake. With BEV share climbing rapidly year on year, procurement teams face mounting pressure to secure sites and grid capacity ahead of sustained demand growth.