EVA England warns of ‘charging divide’ as those without driveways face higher EV costs



A new report from the Electric Vehicle Association (EVA) England has revealed a widening gap in running costs and confidence between drivers with home charging access and those reliant on public infrastructure.

According to the Steer the Conversation survey of 1,668 drivers, 87% of EV owners with driveways said their vehicle was “much cheaper” to run than petrol or diesel equivalents — but only 50% of those without driveways agreed. EVA England warns that this “charging divide” risks leaving millions of households behind in the UK’s transition to electric mobility.

While 95% of current EV drivers said they would recommend going electric, and 69% believe public charging has improved in the past year, costs remain a key barrier. Public charging averages 48p per kWh, compared with 32p at home, and in some cases can reach 98p per kWh. Public chargepoints are also taxed at 20% VAT, compared with 5% for domestic electricity.

The government has responded with a £25 million scheme to fund cross-pavement home charging channels and plans to remove planning restrictions on installations for those without driveways.

EVA England CEO Vicky Edmonds said the results highlight an urgent need for “a fair, affordable and accessible transition for every driver, wherever they live.”

Fleet operators looking to bridge the charging gap can explore home and workplace solutions in FleetWise’s Trusted EV Charging Guide.

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