Labour has been criticised for its lack of electric car charging signs on UK roads despite urging more petrol and diesel drivers to make the switch.
It comes after reports revealed that there are 73,699 electric vehicle charging points across the UK roads, yet only 25 of these on motorways have official road signs, according to reports.
This stark contrast highlights a growing concern about the visibility of charging infrastructure, while signs for petrol stations remain mandatory across the nation’s motorway network.
The disparity between charging point availability and signage has sparked criticism from major operators who claim red tape and outdated regulations are hindering proper signposting.
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There are only 25 motorways which feature electric car charging signs
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The issue particularly affects drivers of 34.4 million traditional vehicles who might be considering switching to electric but worry about charger availability.
Current rules make it nearly impossible for charging stations to get dedicated signage without also installing petrol and diesel pumps, according to operators.
Instavolt, a major charging operator with 1,771 chargers across 682 sites, is set to open the UK’s largest ultra-rapid charging station near Winchester in March.
The company wants to install four signs on the A34 to direct drivers to the 44-bay facility. However, Department for Transport guidelines present a significant obstacle – EV signs can only be installed if the location also provides petrol and diesel pumps.
Major service station operators including Moto, Welcome Break and Road Chef are currently locked in discussions with National Highways about installing EV charger signage.
These negotiations affect potential signage across National Highways’ network of 4,500 miles of motorways and A-roads.
During school holidays and other busy periods, drivers have frequently reported issues with finding available or functioning EV chargers at service stations.
Moto, which operates 1,000 charging bays at motorway service stations, faces a complex challenge in adding charging symbols to existing signs.
Simon Smith from Instavolt told The Times: “Signage creates visibility. Visibility allows the general public to know that there is infrastructure in place and that reduces anxiety for people who have not yet moved to an electric car.”
Meanwhile, Quentin Willson, founder of Fair Charge campaign group, said he was “staggered that clear EV charging signage is being blocked by so many absurd reasons”.
He added: “We need to highlight the charging infrastructure we already have. With such mixed messaging coming out of the government, no wonder consumers are confused.”
Edmund King, president of the AA and member of the Council for Zero Emission Transport, was equally critical.
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The Department for Transport has responded to these concerns, stating it plans to add EV symbols to 13 roadside facilities by April.
A DfT spokesperson said: “We are continually exploring ways to make electric-vehicle drivers aware of the rapidly growing network.
“Drivers can already map charge points on apps like Google Maps and Waze, and we are working to improve signage to charging facilities along our motorways.”
