Tag: Electric Vehicles

Sustainability-in-Tech: Wireless Charging Roads Move Closer to Reality as Global Trials Expand

Posted on by Paul Stradling

Electric roads that wirelessly charge vehicles as they drive are now moving beyond demonstration and into real-world use, offering a glimpse of a transport future with fewer cables, faster charging, and lighter electric vehicles.

Global Trials Are Shaping the Next Phase of EV Infrastructure

Mainly based in the US at present, from city buses in California to delivery vans in Detroit and with motorway freight trials in Europe, it looks as though the rollout of wireless charging roads is picking up pace. This means that the technology is no longer confined to lab tests or closed tracks but is now actually being trialled on public roads, backed by major vehicle manufacturers and public infrastructure funds. For UK businesses and councils planning for large-scale EV adoption, the rapid global progress could offer valuable lessons, and a possible roadmap for future deployment.

Momentum

Electreon, the Israeli firm behind many of these pilots, says the momentum is beginning to shift. “We’re excited to demonstrate how Electreon’s technology can optimise electric fleet usage,” said Stefan Tongur, Vice President of Business Development. “This is about minimising downtime and enabling charging across time and location.”

How Do Wireless Electric Roads Work?

Wireless electric roads use inductive charging which is the same basic technology behind cordless phone chargers. Coils are embedded just below the road surface and connected to the electricity grid. When an electric vehicle with the right equipment passes over them, energy is transferred via a magnetic field to the vehicle’s battery.

The road segments activate only when authorised vehicles are detected, making the system both energy-efficient and safe. For this system to work, vehicles need a receiver mounted underneath to benefit from the charging. Power is managed in real time via a cloud-based platform that adjusts energy flow, tracks vehicle usage and allows for remote diagnostics.

Why This Could Help the Shift to EVs

For many drivers, range anxiety and charging delays are still barriers to switching to electric vehicles. The big plus point about wireless charging roads is that they offer a way to charge en route, thereby potentially removing the need for large battery packs and long charging stops.

For example, a delivery van or taxi could gain a top-up charge while waiting at traffic lights, at taxi ranks, or while driving between stops. This not only cuts downtime but could allow vehicle manufacturers to reduce battery size, lowering both emissions and cost.

Also, by flattening peak demand on the electricity grid and spreading charging throughout the day, the system could also support wider grid resilience. For countries like the UK, where both EV uptake and grid demand are rising sharply, this aspect has particular relevance.

Projects Taking Shape Around the World

Several real-world projects are already showing how the technology works.

In Detroit, Michigan, a quarter-mile stretch of 14th Street became the first public wireless charging road in the US. It’s now being expanded with support from the Michigan Department of Transportation and industry partners including Ford and UPS. The site also supports wireless overnight charging at a UPS depot, demonstrating how dynamic and static charging can work together.

In California, UCLA is deploying the same technology to electrify its BruinBus fleet ahead of the 2028 Olympics. Wireless charging coils are being embedded along a key campus route and at a new transit hub shared with other operators.

In Europe, Sweden, France and Germany are leading efforts. A 2 km test route on France’s A10 motorway is due to support up to 200 kW of charging for trucks. Sweden’s longer-term national ambitions have been scaled back due to cost, but smaller pilots continue, such as a 1.65 km stretch on Gotland. Germany is evaluating inductive charging alongside overhead cable systems on its Autobahn network.

Could This Work in the UK?

While the UK is not currently hosting any wireless electric road pilots, the concept has started to gain attention among infrastructure planners and local authorities. As the government aims to end the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2035, new approaches to charging infrastructure are being explored.

Back in 2015, the UK Department for Transport signalled early interest in the concept. “The potential to recharge low emission vehicles on the move offers exciting possibilities,” said then-Transport Minister Andrew Jones. “The government is already committing £500 million over the next five years to keep Britain at the forefront of this technology.”

Wireless roads could actually prove particularly relevant for UK cities with high taxi, bus and delivery van traffic. For example, wireless coils at taxi ranks outside Heathrow or in central London could support low-emissions targets while reducing visual clutter from charge points.

There may also be opportunities to integrate the technology into depot environments or council-run fleet hubs, such as bin lorry depots or local bus garages, where predictable daily routes and return-to-base schedules make charging efficiency critical.

For rural businesses operating in harder-to-reach locations, dynamic charging roads along key A-roads could one day reduce reliance on sparse rapid chargers. Although costs remain a barrier, strategic deployment in the UK’s most used corridors could be a viable starting point.

Who’s Leading the Charge?

The leading technology developer in this space is Electreon, an Israeli firm with active trials in the US, Germany, France, Italy, Norway and Israel. The company has built partnerships with major automakers including Toyota, Ford, BMW and Stellantis, and is now working on both aftermarket retrofit kits and built-in vehicle charging systems.

Electreon also provides what it calls Charging-as-a-Service, allowing fleet operators to pay a subscription rather than build and own the infrastructure. This could become an attractive model for UK bus companies or logistics firms looking to upgrade to electric without massive capital expenditure.

According to Electreon, the system is designed to integrate smoothly into daily fleet operations. “Our wireless charging solution enables vehicles to charge throughout the operational day, minimising downtime and reducing the need for large battery packs,” said Stefan Tongur, the company’s Vice President of Business Development.

Other players include Hevo Power and Witricity, both of which are working on wireless charging hardware and standards. SAE’s J2954 standard (and the upcoming J2954/2 for trucks) is helping to create consistency across vehicle manufacturers and infrastructure developers.

Benefits for Fleets, Cities and the Environment

Wireless charging is best suited to vehicles with regular, predictable routes e.g., city buses, last-mile delivery vans, taxis, or refuse trucks. These are also the vehicle types that make up a large portion of urban emissions.

For example, by enabling smaller batteries and constant top-up charging, electric bin lorries in London or Manchester could stay on the road longer without needing depot downtime. This helps both emissions goals and operational efficiency.

In logistics, charging vehicles while they load or unload could reduce idle time. In public transport, bus services could stay electric and reliable even in areas without large depot charging capacity.

On a broader scale, widespread wireless infrastructure could enable manufacturers to offer lighter, more efficient EVs at lower cost, thereby removing another barrier to adoption.

What’s Holding the Technology Back?

Despite the enthusiasm, wireless roads are expensive to build. In Detroit, for example, costs have been reported at nearly $2 million per mile. Indiana’s high-power truck corridor is costing around $11 million per quarter-mile.

Installation can also raise maintenance challenges. In-road coils may affect road resurfacing schedules, and some test sites have seen overheating or pavement cracking under certain traffic loads.

Vehicle compatibility is another hurdle. For example, most EVs on the road today do not support wireless charging, and while retrofitting is possible, it adds complexity and cost. Until OEMs begin including wireless receivers as standard, usage will remain limited.

There are also practical constraints on where the technology should be deployed. For example, experts agree that not every road needs to be electrified and targeted placement along high-use routes or fleet corridors currently is seen as the most efficient approach.

Still Niche, But Moving Fast

Wireless electric roads are not about replacing every plug-in charger. Instead, they represent a smart, strategic solution for the vehicles and locations that need it most. With UK councils under pressure to cut fleet emissions, and operators seeking more efficient ways to electrify, this evolving technology could soon be part of the answer.

What Does This Mean For Your Organisation?

At the moment, it looks as though wireless charging roads are unlikely to become the default for every vehicle or every mile of tarmac, but the idea offers an opportunity to improve the way key vehicles are powered and operated. For example, for commercial fleets, delivery vans, buses and urban taxis, the ability to charge without stopping could drive real gains in efficiency, availability and emissions reduction. These are use cases where the business model already makes sense and the benefits are most immediate.

For UK businesses, particularly those with depot-based or high-frequency urban fleets, this could offer a way to cut costs without investing in large-scale grid upgrades or building out conventional charging infrastructure. The reduced need for larger batteries may also help ease supply chain pressures and allow for lighter, cheaper vehicles that are better suited to city environments. In areas where charging infrastructure is hard to install or already oversubscribed, such as busy city centres or constrained industrial estates, wireless charging could prove especially useful.

The same applies to public sector stakeholders. Local authorities managing refuse trucks, park maintenance fleets or public transport services could use this technology to meet emissions targets more easily while streamlining day-to-day operations. Where councils are upgrading road surfaces or building new transit infrastructure, wireless charging could be built in from the start.

For now, however, the barriers are still significant. Cost, standardisation and vehicle compatibility continue to limit broader rollout. That said, progress is clearly accelerating. As vehicle manufacturers begin to integrate wireless receivers as standard, and more cities commit to zero-emissions transport goals, the conditions for uptake will become increasingly favourable. While not a silver bullet, wireless charging roads are emerging as a credible and focused part of the wider shift towards sustainable transport.

Sustainability-in-Tech : Electric Classic Cars

Posted on by Paul Stradling

In this insight, we explore how UK startup RBW Electric Cars merges classic craftsmanship with electric technology to advance sustainability, alongside its EV-as-a-Service offshoot, Spirit EV, and their combined potential for eco-friendly motoring.

Redefining Luxury Vehicles in Lichfield 

UK-based startup RBW Electric Cars, headquartered in Lichfield, Staffordshire, is blending sustainability with the quintessential British motoring experience by redefining luxury vehicles through marrying classic car craftsmanship with cutting-edge electric technology. In essence, they’re creating classic car-style EVs. RBW hopes that this innovative approach captures the charm of iconic British sports cars while aligning with the global shift towards sustainable transportation in a way that appeals to luxury car buyers.

Heritage and Innovation 

Founded in 2017, RBW Electric Cars has positioned itself at the forefront of a niche market, offering brand-new electric vehicles that encapsulate the spirit of classic British design.

Models 

Their flagship models, the RBW Roadster and the RBW GT, are clearly crafted to resemble classics such as the MG, Aston Martin, and Jensen. However, beneath their vintage exteriors lies a modern electric drivetrain, delivering a seamless and environmentally friendly driving experience.

In RBW’s 28,000-square-foot facility, each vehicle is individually tailored to the customer’s preferences, with in-house paint and trim specialists ready to bring any vision to life. This bespoke approach ensures that every car is not just a mode of transportation but highly personalised.

What’s So Different About RBW Cars? 

Several factors distinguish RBW Electric Cars from other manufacturers in the industry, not least the old-style, classic look of their models. In addition, one of the most notable differences is their use of a patented power drivetrain system, which places the electric motor at the rear of the car. This is designed to enhance handling and retain the authentic sports car feel that enthusiasts may recognise and enjoy.

Also, the Turntide lithium-ion battery technology is strategically placed under the bonnet, providing balanced weight distribution. This placement reportedly not only improves the vehicle’s handling but also maximises battery capacity without compromising the car’s classic design.

Classic Bodies 

The feature that gives these vehicles an instant ‘wow factor’ is the use of British Motor Heritage bodyshells, produced to original specifications, ensuring that the vehicles maintain their iconic appearance while benefiting from modern materials and processes.

Quality 

RBW’s commitment to quality also extends to the interior, where hand-stitched leather upholstery and bespoke suspension systems are standard. Customers can choose from a curated selection of paint colours or request specialised options, making each vehicle unique. Modern features such as Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, crash sensors, and air conditioning are also integrated, providing the comforts expected in contemporary vehicles without detracting from the nostalgic appeal.

Sustainability at the Core 

At the heart of RBW’s mission is a dedication to sustainability. By utilising electric propulsion, RBW’s vehicles contribute to reducing carbon emissions and promoting cleaner transportation options. The cars offer an estimated range of 150 miles from a 35kW battery, making them suitable for both daily commutes and leisurely drives through the countryside.

Also, building new vehicles from the ground up allows RBW to optimise manufacturing processes for environmental efficiency. This approach aims to reduce waste and avoid the challenges associated with converting existing petrol-powered cars to electric. The modern electric systems also require less maintenance than traditional combustion engines, potentially extending the lifespan of the vehicles and further reducing their environmental impact.

Introducing Spirit EV and the EV-as-a-Service Model 

Building on the success of RBW Electric Cars, CEO Peter Swain and his team have now launched an offshoot company called Spirit EV. This new venture aims to offer an ‘EV-as-a-Service model’, providing design, testing, and production services with an artisan approach. Spirit EV seeks to share RBW’s expertise with other manufacturers and builders interested in developing custom electric vehicles with classic styling.

The Benefits of EV-as-a-Service 

The EV-as-a-Service concept allows companies to tap into Spirit EV’s advanced technology and patented components without the significant investment typically required for research and development. This collaborative model not only accelerates the production of electric vehicles but also promotes sustainability across the industry by making electric technology more accessible.

Plans to Expand 

Spirit EV plans to expand its operations internationally and is reported to be considering opening a factory in Danville, Virginia, by February 2025. This expansion could be a sign of the growing global demand for sustainable transportation solutions and highlights RBW’s ambition and commitment to meeting that demand.

Balancing Tradition and Modernity 

RBW Electric Cars and Spirit EV represent a unique intersection of tradition and modernity. By preserving the aesthetic appeal of classic British cars and infusing them with state-of-the-art electric technology, they offer products that may appeal to both vintage car enthusiasts and advocates for sustainable living.

Like Vintage But Without the Extensive Maintenance (and Pollution) 

This approach addresses some of the limitations often associated with owning classic cars. For example, real vintage vehicles typically require extensive maintenance and may not meet modern safety or environmental standards. RBW’s cars, however, provide the reliability of new vehicles, reducing the need for frequent repairs and offering features that enhance safety and convenience.

Ryan Morris, president of Meson Capital Partners and chairman of RBW, highlighted the practicality of this approach in an interview with TechCrunch back in 2023. He noted that building a classic-style car from scratch with modern electric components reduces the maintenance burden on owners, potentially expanding the market for such vehicles. “I’ve got two kids, I work a lot, I’m busy. I don’t have time to fix my car every third time I drive it,” he remarked, emphasising the appeal of reliability in today’s fast-paced world.

Economic and Environmental Impact 

From an economic standpoint, RBW and Spirit EV’s business model aims to make custom electric vehicles more affordable and accessible. By purchasing components in larger quantities and streamlining production processes, they can reduce costs compared to traditional auto restoration shops. This efficiency not only benefits the company but also makes sustainable transportation options more attainable for consumers.

Environmentally, the promotion of electric vehicles contributes to global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As countries implement stricter regulations on emissions and encourage the adoption of electric vehicles, companies like RBW may begin to play a crucial role in facilitating this transition. By offering vehicles that are both sustainable and aesthetically appealing, RBW hopes to address environmental concerns while meeting consumer desires.

Challenges and Future Prospects 

Despite their innovative offerings, RBW and Spirit EV face challenges inherent in entering a new and evolving market. The demand for brand-new, classic-style electric vehicles is still emerging, and companies must navigate uncertainties related to consumer acceptance and market dynamics.

In an interview, Peter Swain acknowledged these challenges but remains optimistic about the future, saying, “We’re in a new market, which we’ve created. It’s pretty unique—brand-new, classic EV cars. But where’s it going to go? Let’s be honest, we don’t know exactly”. The company’s strategy involves continuous innovation and responsiveness to market feedback, positioning them to adapt as the industry evolves.

Connecting EV-as-a-Service to Sustainability 

The EV-as-a-Service model offered by Spirit EV has significant implications for sustainability. By providing resources and expertise to other manufacturers, it helps reduce the overall environmental impact of vehicle production. This collaborative approach fosters innovation and promotes the adoption of electric vehicles on a broader scale.

Experience and Knowledge 

Neil Heslington, who leads development for Spirit EV, brings valuable experience from his work on early electric vehicles like the Smart EV for Daimler in 2008. His insights into developing projects to original equipment manufacturer standards, but with lower budgets and less time, directly inform Spirit EV’s offerings. It is hoped that this knowledge will enable the company to assist others in bringing electric vehicles to market more efficiently and sustainably.

What Does This Mean for Your Organisation? 

RBW Electric Cars and its offshoot, Spirit EV, take a novel and niche approach within the automotive industry, seeking to bridge the gap between classic car aesthetics and modern sustainable technology. By combining the timeless appeal of vintage British sports cars with contemporary electric drivetrains, they aim to offer a unique product that caters to enthusiasts of classic design while addressing environmental concerns.

Their strategy of using patented technology and bespoke craftsmanship allows them to stand out in a competitive market. Their focus on customisation and quality may appeal to a niche segment of consumers who value both tradition and innovation. The introduction of Spirit EV’s EV-as-a-Service model presents an opportunity for collaboration within the industry, potentially facilitating a broader adoption of electric vehicles by making technology and expertise more accessible.

However, the venture is not without its challenges. Entering a market that is still emerging carries uncertainties, particularly regarding consumer acceptance and the scalability of such specialised products. The higher costs associated with bespoke manufacturing and advanced technology may also limit their appeal to a wider audience. Additionally, while electric vehicles contribute to reducing emissions during operation, considerations around the environmental impact of battery production and the sourcing of materials remain key issues within the industry.

As RBW Electric Cars and Spirit EV move forward, their success may depend on their ability to navigate these challenges by adapting to market demands and advancing technological efficiencies. Their efforts contribute to the ongoing dialogue about sustainability in transportation, highlighting both the possibilities and complexities of integrating eco-friendly practices with consumer desires for performance and style.

RBW’s initiative, therefore, represents one of many paths the automotive and EV industry is exploring in the quest for sustainable solutions. Their offering highlights the potential for innovation when heritage and modern technology intersect, while also reminding stakeholders of the practical considerations that accompany such ventures. The future impact of their approach will likely unfold as part of the broader evolution of the electric vehicle market and its response to global sustainability goals.

Sustainability-in-Tech : Marvellous Microplastics Magnets

Posted on by Paul Stradling

UK startup ‘The Tyre Collective’ has developed a tyre-dust magnet to attach to electric vehicles (EVs) to tackle the often-overlooked problem of tyre-dust microplastic pollution.

The Problem – The Dangers Of Tyre-Wear 

As explained by The Tyre Collective, “Tyre-wear is the second-largest source of microplastics in our oceans, toxic to marine life, and air particulate pollution”. The ‘tyre-wear’ it refers to are the particles of tyre dust, caused by friction on the road, that break off and are released every time a vehicle accelerates, brakes or corners. These tiny microplastic particles are both dangerous to health if breathed in, plus they pollute the environment.

Another interesting aspect of the problem is that EVs produce more trye-wear than regular vehicles because of their higher weight from heavy battery packs and instant torque, which increases stress on the tyres.

The Tyre Magnet 

The tyre-dust magnet, the first such device designed to capture tyre pollution, is a toaster-size device with a series of metal plates, that attaches to the undercarriage of a vehicle, behind the wheels. As the car drives, tyre dust from road friction is released as charged particles. The device uses electrostatics and airflow to attract and capture these particles, thereby removing the tyre-wear pollution at source.

How Effective Is It? 

As the Tyre Collective points out, the issue of tyre-wear particle pollution has been an overlooked area until now but “transport will never reach zero emissions, without capturing tyre-wear”.   

In terms of how effective the tyre magnet device is, The Tyre Collective says its technology can attract up to 60 per cent of a car’s tyre particles.

Upcycling 

One other advantage of the tyre magnet device is that the collected tyre-wear particles can be upcycled into a variety of applications creating a closed-loop system. Examples of where the upcycled trye particles can be used (industrial and consumer applications) include making bitumen, 3D-printing, shoe soles, and making high-performance activewear.

Which Vehicles? 

The Tyre Collective says it’s initially targeting logistic fleets, i.e. delivery and maintenance vans then moving onto buses and HGVs. Long term, the company aims to scale its devices across all vehicle segments and integrate them into new EVs globally.

Trials 

The tyre magnet was trialed last year on American EV manufacturer Rivian’s fully electric commercial vans. Other trials of the device have been with companies like CEVT & Volvo Cars, PostNL and BMW Financial Services.

There’s also another trial in the pipeline with a fleet of electric delivery vans owned by London-based startup HIVED.

What Does This Mean For Your Organisation? 

For businesses in the logistics and delivery sector, including those operating maintenance vans, the introduction of The Tyre Collective’s tyre-dust magnet offers an opportunity to reduce their environmental footprint. By integrating these devices into their fleets, companies could significantly cut down on tyre-wear pollution, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment. Additionally, this proactive approach may enhance the corporate image and attract environmentally conscious clients, while potentially lowering maintenance costs in the long run through reduced tyre-wear.

For buses and heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), the benefits may be similarly substantial. These vehicles, often covering extensive miles and operating in urban areas, contribute significantly to microplastic pollution. By adopting the tyre-dust magnet technology, operators could play a crucial role in mitigating urban pollution, improving public health, and setting a precedent for sustainable transport. This could also align with increasingly stringent environmental regulations, potentially avoiding future compliance costs and penalties.

EV manufacturers stand to gain immensely from this kind of innovation. Integrating tyre-dust magnets into new EV models could, for example, enhance their appeal by addressing a significant environmental concern. As consumers become more eco-conscious, showcasing a commitment to reducing all forms of pollution, including tyre-wear, could provide a competitive edge. This integration also aligns with the broader industry goal of achieving zero emissions, reinforcing the sustainable image of EVs.

For The Tyre Collective, the successful deployment of their tyre-dust magnet represents a milestone in their mission to combat microplastic pollution. As their technology gains traction, they appear likely to establish themselves as leaders in environmental innovation in an overlooked area, opening doors for further research and development. The ability to upcycle collected tyre particles into new products will also create additional revenue streams and support a circular economy.

Residents in high-traffic areas could experience a direct positive impact from the widespread adoption of this technology. Reduced tyre-wear particles will mean cleaner air and a lower risk of respiratory issues associated with microplastic pollution. This improvement in air quality could lead to enhanced public health outcomes and a better quality of life for these communities.

From an environmental perspective, widespread implementation of tyre-dust magnets could lead to a significant reduction in microplastic pollution, benefiting marine and terrestrial ecosystems alike. This reduction is crucial for preserving biodiversity and ensuring the health of various species affected by microplastic ingestion.

Society as a whole also stands to benefit from cleaner air and a healthier environment. The reduced environmental impact of tyre-wear aligns with global sustainability goals and helps combat climate change. The positive ripple effects of this technology could, therefore, lead to greater public awareness and support for environmental initiatives, fostering a culture of sustainability.

The Tyre Collective’s innovative tyre dust magnet, therefore, could be a game-changer for multiple sectors and by effectively addressing this often-overlooked issue, it could provide a pathway to cleaner transport, healthier communities, and a more sustainable future.

Sustainability-in-Tech : Green BT Street Cabinets To Become EV Charging Points

Posted on by Paul Stradling

In line with the government’s aim to increase the number of electric vehicle (EV) charging points from 50,000 to 300,000 by 2030, the BT Group has announced that it will be repurposing its old, green street cabinets to EV charging points.

60,000 New EV Charging Points 

The move, as part of a pilot scheme beginning in Scotland “in the coming weeks” will see BT’s end-of-life green street cabinets being repurposed to add 60,000 new chargers nationwide.

Green Boxes 

BT’s green boxes, a familiar sight on many streets, have traditionally been used to house cabling for phone lines and broadband but BT says the cabinets are slowly becoming obsolete as fibre-optic broadband is rolled out across the country. The company says that when the boxes reach the end of their life the old broadband equipment can be recycled, and EV points housed there instead.

Easy To Repurpose 

The BT Group says green boxes can be converted simply by using a small device to supply renewable energy to an on-street charging point, without the need to create a new power connection. The technology can actually be deployed in cabinets which are either in use or due for retirement.

Huge Step 

Tom Guy, Managing Director at BT Group said: “Our new charging solution is a huge step in bringing EV charging kerbside and exploring how we can address key barriers customers are currently facing.” 

Other Ideas 

An insufficient number of charging stations and whether charging points are available at home (or at work) have long been seen as major challenges to the growth of EV ownership in the UK (along with other factors like the price of EVs).

Some of the many suggestions for other potential kerbside solutions include:

– Lamp posts, especially in residential areas where traditional charging stations might be impractical, and they already have an electrical connection, which can be modified to include charging points.

– Parking meters. This would save space plus make use of the existing power supply and payment systems.

– Utility poles (similar to lamp posts), which have an existing power supply and are widely distributed, making them a viable option for EV charging.

– Street furniture such as benches, bus shelters, or other street furniture with integrated solar panels which could be equipped with charging capabilities.

– Retired/classic telephone boxes (only available now in some areas) can (and have been) repurposed as EV charging points, combining cultural heritage with modern technology.

– Bollards could be equipped with charging technology.

– Public toilets, which have been getting scarcer due to closures from council cuts, already have electricity for lighting and heating, and could be adapted to include EV charging points.

– Solar-powered recycling bins with built-in Wi-Fi and charging capabilities are one suggestion of an innovative way to combine waste-management and EV charging.

– Pop-up, temporary charging hubs / mobile charging stations, in areas with high demand, using existing power sources or portable generators.

What Does This Mean For Your Organisation? 

The innovative repurposing of BT’s green street cabinets essentially kills two birds with one stone, breathing new life into old infrastructure while tackling the UK’s lack of EV charging points. It’s one step in the right direction towards sustainable technology and environmental responsibility and it sounds as though it has the potential to make a major contribution (60,000) to the UK’s target of having 300,000 EV charging points by 2030. However, bear in mind that this is still only a pilot scheme.

It also seems like quite a practical option for a broad segment of the population. For organisations operating in the EV sphere, this expansion could also open new avenues for growth and innovation, as the increased infrastructure will likely stimulate demand for electric vehicles.

Environmentally, the repurposing of existing structures for EV charging aligns with green initiatives and carbon reduction goals and utilising existing assets, such as BT’s green boxes, is a way to reduce the environmental impact of constructing the necessary new EV charging stations in the UK. It also highlights how sustainability can be achieved through intelligent innovation, rather than just new construction.

Exploring the other potential kerbside solutions, like integrating charging capabilities into lamp posts, parking meters, and even public toilets, underscores the potential for creative solutions to the EV charging challenge. A versatile approach like this could well be the key to meeting the challenge of insufficient charging points in a faster, more affordable way at scale.

However, it’s still important to acknowledge that there are other remaining challenges within the EV market, such as the high initial cost of EVs, the need for widespread adoption of renewable energy sources to truly realise the environmental benefits of EVs, and the technical challenges associated with rapidly scaling up EV charging infrastructure. Addressing these issues requires a concerted effort from both the private and public sectors, with continued innovation and investment in sustainable technologies being paramount.

That said repurposing BT’s green street cabinets, alongside other innovative kerbside solutions, could offer a blueprint for how we can meet our environmental targets while fostering the growth of the EV market in the UK.