Rapid EV charging network to be rolled out across Birmingham

As part of its commitment to cut carbon emissions, Birmingham City Council has announced that it will start the roll-out of 100 per cent renewable energy electric vehicle (EV) charge points across the city from Autumn 2020.

Over the next two years, an initial network of 394 ‘fast and rapid’ charge points will be installed across Birmingham, focusing on the city centre to support the electrification of Birmingham’s taxi fleet – but also accessible to the general public and local businesses.

The initial network development aims to allow electric taxis, cars and vans to get moving quickly, picking up a significant charge in less than 30 minutes (depending on vehicle type).

Birmingham City Council will work with ESB EV Solutions to develop and deliver a complete charging strategy for the next 12 years. This will set out plans for a city-wide EV charging system, focused on meeting the specific needs of all communities throughout Birmingham. Charge points will be deployed at key locations designed to provide Birmingham’s businesses and residents with a world-class EV charging experience.

The electric vehicle charge point locations will be chosen based on a detailed assessment of predicted local demand, to ensure that the charge points provide maximum benefit to EV drivers. The network will support the uptake of EVs in Birmingham and is said to represent a significant step in the city’s journey towards its net zero emissions future.

Councillor Waseem Zaffar, Birmingham City Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and the Environment, said “This is huge news for our city, and a major step in supporting our climate emergency commitment to cut carbon emissions. What’s more, it will be a key driver in supporting the electrification of Birmingham’s taxi fleet which is a major step in us improving air quality in the city centre.

“This is a complete overhaul of our electric vehicle offering and I’m looking forward to seeing the first charging points being installed being later this year.”