EV for all: The Importance of Charging Accessibility

At Zapgo, we believe EV charging should be simple and easy to use for everyone. The path to greater EV transition needs to be an inclusive one, and we’re committed to making that happen. Our vision is not only to make EV charging accessible no matter where you live but also no matter what your accessibility needs are. Our Head of Network, Jo Moffat, explains why it’s so important:

“We are a community-focused charge point operator, and to achieve this, we want ALL customers to have confidence that no matter what their circumstances, they can safely and easily use our chargers. Whether you're a wheelchair user, a parent with small children, someone with mobility challenges, or have any other specific accessibility needs, we have you in mind as we design and install our chargers.”

According to the Energy Saving Trust, there are currently over 1.4 million disabled drivers in the UK, and of these, it’s estimated that 1.35 million people will be partially or completely reliant on public EV charge points. Many standard public charge points are harder or impossible for drivers or passengers with mobility, dexterity, sight, or learning disabilities to use. With frequent issues arising from the weight of charging cables, the force required to attach the connector, and the lack of room around bays, Jo tells us how Zapgo is helping to make a difference:

‘All of our sites will have a cable management system making the cables easier to plug in and we will have a majority of bays with extra room around them so that you don't struggle to get in and out of the vehicle.’

The easier public and destination charging points are to use, the greater the EV uptake for all drivers and Jo knows this means making sure all drivers are thought of: ‘Charging shouldn't be something you dread’, she tells us, adding:

‘As we tackle the issue of bringing charging facilities to underserved areas it is even more important that EVERYONE can use them. Our sites will be well designed, safe and at destinations where people want to be. This gives people the confidence to make the switch to electric whatever their situation. We aim to have most bays built in an easy-to-use manner, which means bays built mindful of PAS 1899 recommendations. PAS 1899 sets out good practice in delivering inclusive and accessible charge points for EV charging.”

To learn more about the changes Zapgo is making to the EV landscape, visit www.zapgo.co.uk