A recent study by The AA suggests that drivers believe better signage for public EV charge points is necessary to enhance the visibility of the charging network and encourage electric vehicle adoption.
More than half of the 8,268 prospective EV drivers surveyed supported clearer, universal signage to make charge points more noticeable (56%). Additionally, 51% favoured the introduction of totem pole-style pricing boards similar to those found at fuel stations, while 52% suggested incorporating charge points into built-in sat-nav systems for petrol and diesel vehicles.
When asked about modifications to the current charge point sign, over three-quarters (77%) said that replacing the traditional ‘blue P’ parking sign with a ‘green P’ would be the most effective way to indicate charger locations.
Beyond signage improvements, The AA explored the number of public chargers required to encourage more drivers to transition from petrol and diesel vehicles to EVs. The government is currently on track to meet its target of 300,000 publicly available chargers by 2030. However, survey respondents indicated that a total closer to 380,000 by the same deadline would provide greater reassurance for switching to an electric vehicle.
While the overall number of chargers is just one factor influencing consumer hesitation, AA members also raised concerns about charging speed, accessibility, and personal safety. The AA is urging charge point operators and the government to collaborate on these issues to give potential EV adopters more confidence in making the switch.